Lake of the Ozarks: 8-Line Zipline Canopy Tour & Bridge

Summary

Ozark ziplining adventure with canopy bridges and laughs

You’ll fly across eight ziplines over Lake of the Ozarks’ forested hills, cross a wobbly wooden bridge, and share laughs with local guides who know every tree by name. All safety gear and bottled water are included—just bring closed-toed shoes and maybe a little courage.

What’s the experience like?

“You’ll want to keep your knees up here — trust me!” That’s what Jake, our guide, shouted just before I launched off the first platform. He looked like he’d done this a thousand times (probably has), but I was still gripping my harness like it might bite. The Lake of the Ozarks trees were all tangled up in morning light, and there was this weird mix of piney smell and sunscreen in the air. I could hear someone’s kid giggling behind me — apparently not everyone gets nervous.

The first zipline felt way faster than I expected. It’s not just about speed though — you get these flashes of green leaves right in your face, then suddenly you’re above everything for a second. My glove squeaked on the brake thing (they call it a BrakeHawk — sounds intense), but Jake just grinned and gave me a thumbs up from the next platform. There were eight ziplines total, each one different. At one point we crossed this swinging wooden bridge that creaked so much I started humming under my breath just to distract myself. Nobody fell off or anything, but my legs definitely remembered that wobbly feeling for the rest of the day.

I liked how relaxed everyone was — nobody rushed us, even when my friend stopped to tie her shoe for what felt like forever. The guides kept checking our harnesses and helmets without making it awkward. One of them told us how their grandma had zipped here at age 82 last summer (“She screamed louder than any kid,” he said). There were families, couples, some solo folks — all ages really. And every so often you’d catch a glimpse of the lake through the trees if you looked sideways at just the right moment.

I didn’t expect to laugh as much as we did (or sweat that much either). By the end I was covered in wood dust and probably looked ridiculous in my helmet hair selfie, but whatever — it was worth it for those seconds flying through Ozark air. Sometimes I still hear that creak from the bridge when things go quiet at home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Zipline canopy tour in Ozark hills

• Arrive at Lake of the Ozarks
• Receive safety briefing from guides
• Wear closed-toed shoes
• Zip through 8 ziplines
• Cross swinging wooden bridge
• Enjoy family-friendly adventure
• Complete tour with guides

Top questions

How many ziplines are included in this tour?

The tour includes 8 separate ziplines plus a swinging wooden bridge.

What is the minimum age for the Osage zipline canopy tour?

The minimum age is 4 years old; children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult 18 or older.

Is there a weight limit for participants?

Yes, there is a maximum weight limit of 275 lbs per guest.

Are closed-toed shoes required?

Yes, all guests must wear closed-toed shoes during the tour.

Is bottled water provided during the zipline tour?

Bottled water is included for all guests on this canopy tour.

Can young children ride tandem with an adult?

A maximum of two children ages 4-7 per tour may ride tandem if needed.

Is public transportation available nearby?

Yes, public transportation options are available near Lake of the Ozarks zipline location.

Are tips required for guides?

Tipping is appreciated but never required or expected; you can tip by cash or card at the office if you wish.

What’s included

Your day includes bottled water to keep you cool between zips plus all safety equipment—helmet, harness, gloves, and BrakeHawk—provided by friendly local guides who handle everything from check-in to final landing.