New Orleans: Zipline Swamp Tour with Wildlife Views & Pickup

Summary

Zipline over cypress trees spot alligators and feel the wild

You’ll glide above Maurepas Swamp on five ziplines with local guides who know every bird call and gator spot. Cross hanging bridges, climb a spiral cypress staircase, watch for wildlife below, then relax with snacks while the swamp settles around you. It’s equal parts thrill and quiet wonder — something that lingers long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the smell — that thick, green swamp air, kind of sweet and earthy, clinging to my shirt before we even got harnessed up. We’d just arrived at Zip NOLA in Frenier (I had to ask how to say it), and our guide, Marcus, grinned as he handed out helmets. He joked about “gator-spotting from above,” which made me laugh but also scan the water below for eyes. The start platform is 60 feet up — higher than I expected. You can see Lake Pontchartrain stretching out on one side and the old rooftops of Frenier poking through the trees on the other. There’s this moment before you step off where your stomach flips a little — not fear exactly, more like your body reminding you you’re alive.

The zipline itself is fast — wind in your face, cypress branches blurring past, Spanish moss brushing your shoes if you dip low enough. It’s loud when you’re moving but then suddenly quiet when you land on each platform. Marcus pointed out a heron gliding under us once; later, someone shouted “gator!” and sure enough there was a fat one sunning itself on a log. We crossed two wobbly suspension bridges (my legs did that weird shaky thing) and climbed this spiral staircase built right into a cypress tree — honestly felt like something out of a movie set. There’s always this chorus of frogs and birds in the background; sometimes it’s almost too much sound, but then it fades and you just hear yourself breathing.

I didn’t expect to feel so… small? Not in a bad way — just surrounded by all that green and water and sky at once. Afterward we wandered into the shop (they’ve got baby alligators in an enclosure — cuter than I thought), grabbed cold drinks, sat outside watching the swamp light change color. My hands still smelled like rope hours later. If you’re looking for a zipline swamp tour near New Orleans that’s more than just adrenaline — something that sticks with you after — this is it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Zipline through Maurepas Swamp

• Arrive 30 minutes early
• Start at 60-foot platform
• Zipline across 5 lines
• Cross 2 suspension bridges
• Climb spiral cypress staircase
• View swamp wildlife from treetops

Top questions

How long does the New Orleans zipline swamp tour last?

The guided zipline tour lasts about 1 to 1.5 hours from start to finish.

Is hotel pickup included for the swamp zipline tour?

No hotel pickup is included; guests must arrive at Zip NOLA in Frenier 30 minutes before their scheduled time.

Are there weight or age restrictions for the zipline?

Yes, participants must weigh between 45-280 pounds; children under 16 need an adult present.

Can I see alligators during the zipline swamp tour?

Yes, alligators are often visible from the platforms or while crossing ziplines over Maurepas Swamp.

Is the New Orleans swamp zipline wheelchair accessible?

The facility is wheelchair accessible, but check directly regarding specific course access needs.

What should I wear for the zipline swamp tour?

Closed-toe shoes are required for all participants; comfortable clothes are recommended.

Are lockers available at Zip NOLA?

Yes, locker storage is provided for personal belongings during your tour.

Do they provide safety equipment on the zipline tour?

Yes, helmets, harnesses, lanyards, and full safety instruction are included with your booking.

What’s included

Your adventure includes all fees and taxes covered upfront plus full safety gear—helmets, harnesses, lanyards—and guided support throughout your 1–1.5 hour zipline tour over Maurepas Swamp. You’ll get safety instruction from local staff before starting out and have access to restrooms, lockers for your stuff, picnic space outside by the water, plus time to visit their shop with drinks and snacks before heading back out into New Orleans or wherever else your day takes you.