Frequently Asked Questions
Highlands Aerial Park - Know Before You Go
My child does not meet the height or weight requirements, do you allow tandem zipping?
Our course is not designed for tandem zipping. All participants must meet the posted requirements to zip our course.
The forecast says there’s a 40% chance of rain. Should I be worried?
Mountain weather forecasts can be misleading, especially 7–10 days out. In the Highlands area, it’s common to see daily rain chances of 35–50% that end up being little more than a brief drizzle; or no rain at all. During the warmer months, forecasted rain is often an isolated afternoon shower rather than an all-day event.
As a general rule, we consider anything under a 60% chance of rain to be a good forecast for the mountains. Many days with a 40–50% chance of rain turn out to be perfect for outdoor activities. For the best conditions, we recommend booking a morning tour whenever possible, as mornings are typically drier and less likely to experience afternoon showers.
Are bathrooms available?
No, there are no facilities in the gorge. Make sure your party uses the restrooms at the lodge before you head over to the trail.
Can we split payments?
No, our system is not designed for splitting payments. We require all groups to pay with one card
We want a private experience, but we have more than 10 people, can we still book a private tour?
Yes! If you have more than 10 people, please contact us via email or phone call and we will create an experience catered to your group!
Do you offer any teambuilding packages?
Yes! We love working with teams to form stronger bonds and focus on developing leadership skills. Please fill out the form here for more information on creating a teambuilding experience for your group!
Why do I need 4 people to book a tour?
We require a 4-person minimum to open a new time slot and mobilize a guide crew. If you see a time on the site with fewer than 4 people, it’s because it hasn’t been activated yet. If you have a smaller group and want to guarantee a specific time, you can purchase 4 tickets to open the slot yourself.
Can parents or grandparents go?
Absolutely. It’s a multi-generational course. As long as you’re over age 4 and under the 200lb weight limit, you’re cleared to play.
Can I watch?
Yes. We have designated benches and bridges positioned below the course for observers and photographers.
Can my child do it alone?
If they’re 6 or older, they can handle the course independently. For kids under 6, a paying adult needs to gear up and accompany them.
Can we follow our family ziplining?
We can coordinate that. Our guides know the best vantage points—like the Squealing Mare—to stop and let you watch your group from the ground.
How many people can fit?
Each UTV fits three adults comfortably, or four if you’re traveling with a child. If your party is larger than that, call us ahead of time so we can stage multiple vehicles.
Can I drive during the UTV Tour?
No. These are guide-driven tours. We handle the technical off-roading so you can focus on the topography and the views.
Is ziplining physically challenging?
It’s an active day. You’ll need to navigate a steep hill, climb stairs, and cross moving bridges. You should be able to stand for two hours and have the shoulder mobility to reach behind your head to manage your speed. If you have limited upper-body range of motion, we recommend sticking to the first half of the course.
Do I have to slow myself down? What if I cannot stop?
This is an active-participation course. You’ll be trained to use your hand to stabilize yourself and manage your speed. That said, we use a redundant braking system—an expert guide is stationed at the end of every line to ensure you come to a complete, controlled stop.
How long does it take to complete the course?
Budget 1–1.5 hours for the half-tour and 2–2.5 hours for the full mountaintop experience.
What happens if I arrive and do not meet the requirements?
Our requirements are based on equipment tolerances and safety standards. If you don’t meet them at check-in, you won’t be cleared to participate and we cannot issue a refund. Double-check the height and weight limits before you book.
Can I bring items in my pockets? What about zipper pockets?
No. We don’t allow anything in your pockets, including zippered ones. If you have essential medical supplies (like an inhaler or EpiPen), let your guide know during gear-up; they’ll secure it in a specialized medical bag attached to your harness.
Interested in joining our crew?
We’re looking for focused, reliable people to join our guide team and office staff. Working on this mountain requires a high level of responsibility and the ability to manage technical safety systems in a fast-paced environment. If you’re ready to put in the work and join a professional outdoor operation, visit our jobs page to see our current openings and requirements.
Are there bathrooms available during the tour?
No. Once you’re in the harness and on the course, you’re committed. Our tours are tree-based and don’t return to the lodge until the circuit is complete. We touch the ground only once during the Full Mountaintop Tour, but there are no facilities in the gorge. Make sure your party uses the restrooms at the lodge before we start the gear-up process.
What if I have health concerns?
This is an active outdoor environment, not a passive ride. You need to be in good physical standing. That means being able to hike at least a quarter-mile and having a full range of motion in your limbs to manage your gear. If you’ve had a significant injury in the last 6 weeks, are pregnant, or have a heart condition, you are not cleared to climb. If you have a specific condition like severe allergies, call the office. We need to know your baseline before you head into the canopy so we can ensure the tour is safe for both you and our guides.
Can I tip my guides?
Yes! While gratuities are optional, our tour guides income is greatly based on tips, and they are always greatly appreciated. We take pride in providing every guest exceptional customer service and an unforgettable experience. We suggest tipping 15 – 20%, which is the standard in the dining and entertainment industries. Large groups of six or more will have an 18% gratuity added, along with a 10% discount and free photos.
What if I get scared?
We have a “no-go, no-owe” policy. Fear of heights is a real factor on this mountain, and we aren’t going to force you to zip if your gut tells you otherwise. If you show up, gear up, and attempt the Bunny Zip and realize it isn’t for you, you can exit the course and refund your ticket. We’d rather you be honest about your limits so our guides can focus on the guests who are ready to fly.
Our No-Go, No-Owe policy is designed to support guests who genuinely discover the experience isn’t right for them after giving it a try. Refund eligibility is determined at the discretion of our guides and management.
If I am unable to make it to my tour, can I reschedule?
We require 72 hours’ notice to adjust or reschedule a reservation. Within that 72-hour window, we’ve already committed guides and equipment to your slot, so we cannot offer a reschedule or refund.
Can I bring a camera or GoPro?
We don’t allow personal cameras or phones on the course. Between handling your gear and following guide instructions, your hands need to be free. Plus, anything dropped from the canopy becomes a permanent part of the forest floor. Your guides carry GoPros to document the entire tour, capturing high-quality photos and video of your group so you can stay focused on the ride. You’ll have the option to review and purchase those files at the lodge when we’re back on the ground.
Do you zip in the rain?
We operate rain, shine, or snow. We only suspend operations for extreme conditions like lightning, high winds, or unsafe visibility. Our team monitors real-time data from our in-house lightning detection system and NOAA to make the call.
When should I arrive?
Plan to be here 30 minutes before your scheduled tour. If your entire party has already completed their digital waivers, you can shorten that to 15 minutes. Our tours depart exactly on time to keep the mountain schedule moving. If you aren’t here and geared up when your slot begins, we likely won’t be able to hold the tour for you. If you’re running behind, call the office immediately so we can see what your options are.
Do you have height and weight requirements?
Full Mountaintop Zipline Tour
Minimum age of 8 years old
Minimum height of 54″
Minimum weight of 70 lbs.
Maximum weight of 250 lbs.
Half Mountaintop Zipline Tour
Minimum age of 8 years old
Minimum height of 54″
Minimum weight of 60 lbs.
Maximum weight of 250 lbs.
Brave Indian Challenge Course
Minimum age of 4 years old
Maximum weight of 200 lbs.
(no height or weight minimum)
Children between the ages of 4-6 require one paid adult to accompany them
Giant Mountain Swing
Minimum height of 48″
No minimum weight
Maximum weight of 275 lbs.
Maximum combined weight of all 3 riders 750 lbs.
Dual Tree Climb
No minimum height
Minimum weight 30 lbs.
Maximum weight 310 lbs.
Hidden Falls Nature Trail
Free to anyone, anytime we are open!
Digital waiver required
What should I wear?
Mountain weather is unpredictable, so layers are a necessity. If you plan to also zipline, closed-toe shoes are mandatory. If you show up in sandals, flip-flops, or Crocs, you won’t be cleared to participate on the zipline tour. We recommend athletic clothing that allows for movement, but avoid tank tops—the harness straps are designed for safety, not comfort against bare skin. If there’s even a chance of rain, bring a jacket. We operate in most conditions, and being prepared is the difference between a good tour and a long one.