Branson: Shepherd of the Hills Zipline Tour & Canopy Adventure

Summary

Soaring above Ozark woods with laughter, wind, and a little courage

You’ll feel your nerves turn into laughter as you zip above Branson’s forests with a local guide leading the way. Glide across up to eight cables (or just four if you prefer), soak up views of Henning Conservation Area, and share cheers with fellow travelers—all without climbing endless stairs or worrying about fitness levels.

What’s the experience like?

“Don’t worry, even my grandma’s done this one,” our guide Tyler grinned as he handed me the helmet. I wasn’t exactly nervous, but I did wonder if I’d regret that big breakfast. The Shepherd of the Hills zipline tour starts right in Branson, and you don’t have to hike up endless stairs or anything—just step into your harness, listen to Tyler’s quick jokes (he’s got a million), and before you know it, you’re clipped in and looking out over the trees. The morning air smelled like pine needles and that faint sweetness after rain. I could hear cicadas buzzing somewhere below us.

The first cable was shorter than I expected—good for warming up, honestly. There was a kid ahead of me who looked about eight; she zipped off without a second thought while her dad filmed her on his phone. When it was my turn, I felt the line hum under me and then—whoosh—wind in my face, trees blurring past. It’s not scary so much as… freeing? You’re just moving through the Ozarks sky for a moment. By the third line, Tyler pointed out Henning Conservation Area stretching out behind us—1,500 acres of green hills—and told us how some folks come back every year just for this view.

I tried to say “thank you” in my best Missouri accent when we landed at each platform (not sure I pulled it off). The group was small—maybe ten of us—and everyone cheered when someone got nervous or managed a silly pose mid-flight. We did four cables total since we picked the shorter version (there’s an eight-cable option if you want to go all-in). It took about an hour from start to finish; honestly, time felt weirdly stretchy up there. My hands smelled like metal from the gear afterward, but that breeze—I still think about it sometimes when I’m stuck in traffic back home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Zipline canopy tour at Shepherd's Adventure Park

• Arrive at Shepherd's Adventure Park
• Receive safety briefing and gear
• Choose 4 or 8 cable zipline tour
• Zip through Henning Conservation Area
• Complete up to 6000 feet of zipline
• Finish tour and return equipment

Top questions

How long does the Branson zipline canopy tour take?

Tours last between 30 minutes and 2 hours depending on group size and whether you choose 4 or 8 cables.

Is there a weight limit for the Shepherd of the Hills zipline?

Yes, guests must weigh less than 250 pounds to participate.

Do children need an adult on this Branson zipline tour?

Yes, children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult during the tour.

Are there lots of stairs or hiking involved?

No, this canopy tour requires almost no hiking or stair climbing—it’s accessible for most ages.

Where is the zipline located in Branson?

The tour is at Shepherd of the Hills Adventure Park near Henning Conservation Area in Branson.

What should I wear for the zipline canopy tour?

You must wear closed-toed shoes; flip flops are not allowed for safety reasons.

Is public transportation available nearby?

Yes, public transportation options are available close to Shepherd of the Hills Adventure Park.

What’s included

Your day includes all safety gear and guidance from local staff throughout your time on either four or eight ziplines at Shepherd of the Hills Adventure Park in Branson—with friendly help from your guide every step (and flight) along the way.