You may be on the hunt for an outdoor activity this summer in Colorado. Many default to whitewater rafting, one of the most popular past times in the Centennial State. However, aerial adventures shouldn’t be put on the back burner. Ziplining is a great way to bond with your group all while catching breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains. So what’s the difference between platform ziplining and mountaintop courses?
Platform Ziplines
A platform zipline is just as it sounds. You start the trip by climbing a set of stairs up a tall wooden structure to a platform at the top. From there, you zip from that platform to another and so on and so forth. As you zip down moderate declines from one spot to another that is just like the spot you were just at. If you’re looking for something a bit more unique and exhilarating, try a mountaintop zipline.
Mountaintop Ziplines
Mountaintop ziplines actually work their way down the side of a mountain or cliffside. The excitement of starting at the top of a mountain and seeing the route you are going to take back to the bottom cannot be matched by platform zips. Many mountaintop ziplines are also built into the natural surroundings of the zipline, so you combine a beautiful trek through Colorado’s backcountry with soaring among the treetops on the ziplines.
Where Should I Zipline in Colorado?
There are plenty of ziplining options across the state of Colorado, but what makes AVA Rafting & Zipline‘s courses stand out is the way they were built. Both courses are incorporated into their mountainous surroundings in Idaho Springs and Buena Vista.
Mountaintop Zipline in Buena Vista
Situated on our 44-acre mountain property just north of Buena Vista, this 7-line course will have you flying above the Arkansas River Valley and smiling from ear to ear. The Mountaintop Zipline integrates many other features into the adventure, including multiple suspended bridges and a 50-foot free fall.
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Cliffside Zipline in Idaho Springs
AVA’s Cliffside Zipline is conveniently located in Idaho Springs just 30 minutes west of the Denver area, making it a great day getaway into the Rockies. Perfectly situated on the cliffside above this historic mountain town, you’ll gawk at the breathtaking views of the Continental Divide as you soar among the treetops.
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The Verdict
I guess it comes hat is ziplining all about? For most, it is about immersing yourself in the beautiful Colorado outdoors and nature. With platform ziplines you get to see some cool scenery, but mountaintop ziplines are a big step up from tower-to-tower travel. You become part of the scenery, riding through the trees down the mountain.
If you decide to take a trip gliding through the air this summer, be sure to investigate the course you are looking into. While all ziplines are fun, there any many that set themselves apart from others for reasons like these. Be sure that you choose a zipline course that will leave you and your crew with incredible memories.
