Fast speeds, jaw-dropping heights, and stunning views attract thrill-seekers to zip lines all over the world. How it works: Riders are strapped in harnesses and positioned sitting down or on their stomach before being rushed along suspended cables at speeds that can reach up to 100 mph. An equal combination of exhilarating and terrifying, zip-lining is a can't-miss experience for those who crave adventure. Whether you're flying solo or with one or two other passengers, here are some of the coolest, fastest, highest, and most stunning rides.
1. SlotZilla
There aren’t many urban zip lines that run year-round, which makes SlotZilla in Las Vegas rather unique. While it might not be the tallest, fastest, or longest in the world, it allows riders to take in downtown Vegas 77 feet above the crowds. Bolt through with a bird’s-eye view of Sin City’s flashing lights and gambling and party scene. Trust us, it’s well worth the trip.
Our Las Vegas Hotel Pick:
2. La Tyrolienne
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Want to earn some major bragging rights? Head to La Tyrolienne at the Val Thorens ski resort. At 10,597 feet high, it’s the tallest zip line in the world and certainly not for the faint of heart. Even more impressive are the stunning views French Alps. Riders between the ages of eight and 88 can soar over snow-capped mountains for an unforgettable experience.
Our French Alps Hotel Pick:
3. The Monster
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In 2016, the Guinness Book of World Records named The Monster at Toro Verde Adventure Park the longest zip line in the world. Stretching one-and-a-half miles through the Puerto Rican forested countryside, it can zoom as fast as 95 mph. And just when you thought things couldn’t get any better, it does. For every person who rides The Monster, Toro Verde donates a percentage to the Ricky Martin Foundation, which fights human trafficking.
Our Puerto Rico Hotel Pick:
4. Flightline Safari
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Flightline Safari helps adventurers see things from a new perspective. Rather than walk through the San Diego Zoo, this experience allows riders to zip line through through a safari-like setting while admiring all kinds of animals (think giraffes and rhinos) from 130 feet in the air.
Our San Diego Hotel Pick:
5. Zip 2000
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Calling all adrenaline junkies: South Africa‘s Zip 2000 currently holds the title for highest recorded zip line speed at 114 mph. Folks are strapped in side-by-side in a Superman position during this thrilling ride (solo rides are also available). The whole thing only takes one minute to complete, but that’s enough time to fill your need for speed.
Our South Africa Hotel Pick:
6. Flying Fox
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Most zip lines only move one direction — forward. But that’s not the case for New Zealand‘s Flying Fox, which blasts passengers forwards and backwards over the Rangitikei River in Mokai Gravity Canyon. Rally the troops — the ride allows for up to three people to be strapped in at a time.
Our New Zealand Hotel Pick:
7. ZipFlyer Nepal
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If a heart-pumping, excitement-inducing experience is what you’re after, look no further than HighGround Adventures’ ZipFlyer Nepal. At an incline of 56 degrees, passengers should prepare to drop 2,000 feet. Not only is it thrilling (you’ll feel almost weightless during the voyage), but the the spectacular views of the Himalayas can’t be beat.
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- 5 Wildlife Adventures You Have to Take Before You Die
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