I love the feeling of the wind in my hair. I think it all started from owning my first car, a 1984 VW Rabbit Convertible, and driving with the top down. Now, among my travels I’ve had the amazing experience of the wind in my hair and soaring like a bird at the same time while zip lining! If you’ve never done it, yes it’s scary at first, but once you take that step of faith off a platform you’ll wonder why you haven’t done it every day of your life!
My husband and I took a road trip from Portland to Astoria last month on Oregon’s coast and we had the chance to zip line together in the gorgeous Pacific Northwest. We watched the weather report and it had rained off and on for the days we were there, but rain or shine, the zip must go on! Just about 10-15 miles from Astoria, Oregon, High Life Adventures was created by David and Lancey Larson around their 30 acre property which is set in a beautiful natural setting, complete with seasoned timber, ponds, and a seven-acre lake. The Larson’s home can be seen from many of the zip lines.
The High Life Adventures zipline experience takes you on eight zip lines for a total of a mile of zipping! The guides are truly amazing on every ride I’ve ever been on and at High Life it was no exception. SJ kept me feeling safe and confident while his partner provided comic relief to keep everyone smiling and laughing! There’s always a scared newbie in the group and we can all support eachother by cheering them on or allowing them time to talk it out even it may slow the tour down.
The “Maple” zip line even offers a chance to take a dunk in the water, so to speak. Lengthening the lanyard can allow you to dip low enough for a hand or foot drag in the water. If the guides bounce you a bit, your bottom and bounce through the water too! My husband did a hand drag, but I liked to keep both hands holding tight at all times! My bottom got so close to touching the water…scary but I stayed dry!
At the tallest tower, you and your partner can hook up together for the twin 1200 foot cables “Spruce” and “Willow.” Side by side, you get a chance to “race” to the to the end of the course for bragging rights. My husband won only because he’s heavier and even with my legs pulled into cannonball, I couldn’t go faster than him!
We were introduced to their newest attraction which is the SWING where you can jump off that tall tower at Spruce and Willow and literally swing back and forth over the dual line! I wanted to take video of the guide showing us how but I stared in awe (and fear) and only had enough time to catch a quick picture. This location is being set up with a camera so pictures (and video I believe) can be taken of you to purchase. I’m confident zipping, but that I will not do anytime soon!
To zip line you need to be between 60-300 pounds and not have back or neck issues. Taking a phone or camera is at your own risk and should be able to be tucked away in a pocket (preferably zipped) between zips. I took a chance and had my phone with me, there are so many beautiful views to capture, but be forewarned no one wants there tech at the bottom of one of the lake!
Plan for the tour to be about 3 hours, with some light hiking. Closed toe shoes are required. There are a few spots where you can get water and even a cookie break but bathrooms are only available at the beginning and end of the tour! Prices are $69 for ages 15-under and $99 for 16-older. For more information and to book, visit http://www.highlife-adventures.com/.
All opinions and gratuities offered were 100% our own, adventure was hosted as part of our media tour.
Rebecca Swenor says
I always wanted to go Zipping. Thanks for sharing.
Mistee Dawn says
Oh my goodness. I want to do this so badly. Looks so fun.
Beeb Ashcroft says
Jai and I drove by this the other day and we were like, “Hey, that’s where Jen went zip lining!” LOL. I’ll have to get down there one of these days and check it out. Now that I’ve been zipping once before it won’t be *Quite* so terrifying, but I know what you mean about keeping both hands right there on the line!! Ha!
Debi says
I am going zip lining next month. I can not wait
Jamie says
I so want to do this sometime!! Definite on the bucket list for me, but at the same time I have such a fear of heights lol
Have Sippy Will Travel Mommy Blogger says
my bubbie is too small for big stuff like this, but i love to go with friends when i can 🙂
Carlee C says
I have always wanted to do this. It looks like such and adventure and a rush. The location that you are at is beautiful!
Angie says
Been there, done this and will do it again! Absolutely love the Zwing! We went as a family of 3 and we’re joined by others of various ages to soar through the trees. Joke intended…pigs CAN fly as I’m a chunky momma. Amy Bomb and Super Steve were the best. A few sensible rules and off you go. Some hiking for short distances required but it is worth every effort. Feel the burn..you will compensate for the exercise with a well earned cookie and juice break. There is an extra cost for the Zwing which is at the last line.