A zip-line (AKA zip wire, aerial runway or tyrolean crossing) is constructed of a pulley suspended on a cable mounted on an incline. Zip-lines are designed to enable a user to be propelled by gravity to slide from the top to the bottom of the inclined cable (usually made of stainless steel) by holding on or attaching to the freely moving pulley. Zip-lines may be short and low, intended for children. Longer and higher rides may be used to access remote areas, like rainforest canopies. Zip-line tours have become popular vacation activities, found at outdoor adventure camps or upscale resorts.
Ziplines and canopy tours originated in the Costa Rica rainforests where adventurous scientists and researchers who wanted to study animal life in the upper forest canopy, created a system of cables and platforms that would allow them to get as close as possible to this previously inaccessible ecosystem. Over time this has developed into a breathtaking eco-tourism activity that not only allows people to enter and experience the upper realm of a rainforest but can raise awareness to the plight and beauty of the world’s endangered indigenous forests.
After months of planning, surveying, designing, constructing, and pulling at the cables, Ocoee Zipz became operational! We were fully operational August 1st of 2010 and we’ve been going at full speed ever since as the first and only zipline on the Ocoee River. With over 6,000 feet of cable, Ocoee Zipz is made up of seven signature zip-lines and each line will amaze you as you soar through the trees along the Ocoee River, taking in the natural scenery, and feeling like you’re flying. This adrenaline-pumping adventure takes place over 40 acres along the mighty Ocoee River, site of the 1996 Summer Olympic Whitewater competitions. Come prepared to spend over 2 hours zipping, flying, soaring, and bouncing through the canopy of the trees at speeds of up to 45 MPH. Of course, safety is our main concern and all of our guides have undergone rigorous training and each has been certified through Universal Zipline Technology (UZT). Our certified guides will lead you in zipline safety and brake training. Please note, there is a 250 pound weight limit per person to ride Ocoee Zipz.
The Ocoee Zipz zipline tour is generally over two hours long, but it won’t seem like it. The trip includes all seven ziplines, numerous sky bridges, short nature walks and the grand finale— the dual line zipline called The Wizard, which begins from a 65-foot high tower and offers over 1,000 feet of high-speed fun. Our certified guides will lead you in zipline safety and brake training, insight into natural features and wildlife, as well as area history and culture.
While it is always your choice, some people with this phobia actually enjoy our tours! You will be double-clipped to Ocoee Zipz 1/2” steel cables which can support more than 20,000 pounds. Ocoee Zipz guides are trained in all zipline procedures and will stay with you throughout the tour to answer any questions and to make sure your equipment is corrected connected and used. Your safety is our number one focus.
Ocoee Zipz is responsible for the management, procedures, and protocols of our zip-lines. We follow strict guidelines to promote safety in all aspects of these zipline adventures. Riders are also responsible to a certain extent for their personal safety.
All Ocoee Zipz staff receive extensive, hands-on training as well as periodic follow-up training in the operation of our zip lines. There are numerous intricate details involved in running a zip line that cannot be learned in a few minutes. Procedures: Ocoee Zipz has established and enforces proper procedures for all users of the zip line at all times, whether they are staff or participants. Ocoee Zipz staff trains all participants so they clearly understand what to expect and the appropriate body positions for zipping and landing to minimize the risk of injury or accident. Corridor and Equipment Maintenance: Ocoee Zipz maintains its zip line corridors to be clear of branches and other obstructions for at least 10 feet from the cable, and we follow all equipment manufacturer’s recommendations for use and maintenance. Weather: Zip lines are not intended for use during inclement weather. Ocoee Zips management will determine when to shut down the lines for safety considerations. Riders: Zip line riders must listen carefully to all instructions and adhere to procedures and protocols expected of them. They should stay in an upright position; keep body parts, hair, and other items away from the cable and pulley; be in good health; be less than 250 pounds in weight; and understand the proper use of all safety gear.
Ocoee Zipz staff and guides will fully instruct you in the proper use of our zip lines and will stay with you every step of the way.
Due to the strenuous nature of our zip line tours and the fact that you will be being suspended from a cable, we ask that proper attire must be worn on a zip line tour. Loose and comfortable long pants, shorts, and long sleeve and short sleeve shirts are all appropriate. Due to the nature of the harness, wearing longer pants may be the most comfortable choice. Since short stair climbs and hikes are part of the tour, please avoid sandals, flip-flops, or backless shoes. Hiking or sports footwear is recommended. Please do not wear dangling jewelry such as earrings, necklaces, and lanyards. Long hair should be tied back. Regardless of whether you are touring with us in the spring, summer or winter, it is best to dress in layers. Even summer tours may be cool once you are up in the canopy, so it is best to bring a light jacket or long-sleeved shirt. Please make sure you are prepared!