Soaring through the High Country on a zipline tour

BY CARLI JOHNSON

Here in the High Country, the Blue Ridge Parkway offers expansive views that extend for miles and a day on the trail allows for an up-close experience of our diverse ecosystem. But what other ways can visitors experience the beauty of these Appalachian Mountains?

For an exciting adventure, try soaring through the treetops on a zipline. There’s nothing quite like taking in the scenery by gliding effortlessly through the cool mountain air. A thrilling adventure like this is sure to be a memorable experience for families and visitors alike.

There are three main outfitters in the High Country that provide a fun and safe outdoor adventure. Hawksnest Zipline in Seven Devils, High Gravity Adventures and Sky Valley Zip Tours of Blowing Rock.

Hawksnest Zipline

About 10 miles outside Boone is Hawksnest Zipline. Originally a ski resort and golf course, this outfitter has worn many hats since opening in 1964. Hawksnest ski season officially ended in 2008 when it switched its focus to creating the East Coast’s largest snow tubing park. Shortly after, in 2009, it added a zipline course to its resume.

Here, there are three different ziplining trips to choose from: the Hawk Tour, the Eagle Tour and the Do It All Tour. The Hawk Tour is the most popular option for visitors. For two hours, adventurers will travel on 11 cables for a total of 1.5 miles through the sky. This is the more scenic route and is a great option

What To Wear And Bring

Among the items that staff recommend to bring and wear for zip line tours include:

• Shoes that strap to your feet

• Shorts or pants (depending on the weather)

• Rain gear (in wet weather)

• Long hair tied back

• No dangly jewelry for families and first-time zipliners. Participants must be at least five years of age and children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult. For this tour, riders cannot be more than 250

• Please secure any body piercings with athletic tape or remove, if possible, prior to arriving for a tour.