Hot Springs: Small-Group Zipline Tour in Old Growth Forest

Summary

Zip above creeks and ancient trees on a small-group Hot Springs adventure

You’ll suit up with safety gear and join a small group for ten zip lines through Hot Springs’ old growth forest—crossing over water and hiking short trails between runs. With a local guide leading the way (and keeping things light), expect laughter, shaky knees, and moments where time slows down high above the ground.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the harness — kind of snug, but reassuring, you know? Our guide, Alex, double-checked every strap and cracked a joke about “trusting the gear more than your ex.” The forest around Hot Springs felt damp and earthy, with that cedar smell you only get after rain. There were twelve of us, all a bit awkward at first, shuffling our feet while Alex explained how not to spin upside down (unless you’re into that).

I didn’t expect the zip lines to be so high — one of them is about 70 feet up, which looks way taller when you’re actually standing there. The first jump was pure nerves for me. My palms were sweaty on the trolley handle, but once I pushed off, it felt like flying. You zip over these little creeks and pools that glint through the trees. At one point I caught a glimpse of my own reflection in the water below — weirdly calming for half a second before I started laughing out loud. The air was cool against my face, mixed with hints of moss and something sweet from wildflowers.

Between lines we hiked short trails, nothing too tough but enough to get your heart going. It’s funny how everyone loosened up after the second or third run — even the quiet guy from Vancouver started making jokes about squirrel traffic jams. Alex kept pointing out different tree species (I forgot most of them) and told us how some of these old cedars have been here longer than any of us will ever live. That stuck with me more than I expected.

By the last zip line — which is about 850 feet long — my legs were shaking but in a good way. I still think about that final stretch: wind in my ears, sunlight flickering through leaves, just this weird mix of fear and joy at being up there. If you’ve never done a small-group zipline tour in Hot Springs before, it’s hard to explain how much lighter you feel afterward. Maybe it’s just adrenaline or maybe it’s something else.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Zipline tour through old growth forest

• Get harnessed up
• Receive safety briefing
• Ride 10 zip lines
• Zip line over water
• Take short hikes between lines

Top questions

How many zip lines are included in this Hot Springs tour?

The tour includes 10 zip lines through old growth forest and over water features.

How long does the small-group zipline tour take?

The whole experience takes about 1.5 hours from start to finish.

What is the longest zip line on this tour?

The longest zip line is approximately 850 feet long and about 70 feet high.

Is there hiking involved during the tour?

Yes, there are very short hikes between each of the zip lines.

What ages can participate in this Hot Springs zipline tour?

The activity is suitable for anyone ages 8 to 98 who is in good to moderate health.

Are safety gear and equipment provided?

Yes, all necessary safety gear and zip line trolleys are included for participants.

Can service animals join the tour?

Service animals are allowed on this activity.

Is this tour recommended for pregnant travelers?

No, it is not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health.

What’s included

Your day includes all required safety gear and your own zip line trolley as you join a small group led by an experienced local guide—no need to bring anything except your sense of adventure (and maybe some courage).