Zip lines are quite simple in design and theory; however they provide a unique experience and perspective on ecosystems below. Zip lines are designed to allow a person to strap on to a cable connecting two points, one below the other, and use gravity to propel the person to the lower point. In most cases, they are used as a means of entertainment or fun transportation. Zip lines are located in areas with tall trees and foliage as trees provide the best anchors for zip line adventures. It is common that zip line adventures take advantage of long slopes where there can be many zip lines mounted in a row delivering the participants from platform to platform. As the foliage and ecosystems below are often dense and difficult to navigate, zip lines give a unique perspective looking down onto life below.
Most commercial zipline operations utilize secure harnesses, helmet, and safety equipment to ensure a secure ride as they can be very high up and cover significant distances. Mexico and Costa Rica provide many zip line adventures, also known as canopy tours, which take participants through and over the rain forest below.
There is a new type of zip line adventure that has surfaced lately in the Yucatan Peninsula that utilizes user powered zip line bicycles. Participants are seated into a sit down bicycle hanging from a series of zip lines that take you through the jungle and in some cases, a series of cave habitats. Utilizing this type of zip line technology allows users to experience a zip line adventure in relatively flat geographic regions while maintaining an elevated perspective.
Zip lines are an adventure that can be experienced by any age of adventurer. Make sure to look up zip line adventures in the surrounding areas of your next trip if seeing the wilderness from a safe distance and unique perspective interests you.