Eagles and owls aren't the only things flying through the air at Northwest Trek Wildlife Park—you too, can enjoy a trip through the trees. More than a simple zip line, Zip Wild is a zip line and challenge course, which means that there are various obstacles among interconnected zip lines.
Before you try out a Zip Wild course yourself, check out these three things to be aware of before your feet leave the ground.
1.) The Courses. First thing's first—there are five zip line courses. Second, all courses require both reservations in advance, and adult accompaniment.
Super Kids is designed for ages 5 and older. This course is roughly five-and-a-half feet above the ground, and designed to both challenge and build the confidence of young adventurers. The zip line has an incline tame enough that kids can control their speed by lifting their legs to be less aerodynamic, enabling them to maintain a sense of control and security.
Price: $29.95
Discovery Course is aimed at participants ages 8 and older, and has 10 challenges in addition to the zip lines. The course is challenging enough to engage older kids and adults alike, and some sections rise as high as 30 feet above zoo grounds.
Price: $32.95
Aerial Runway is also for ages 8 and up, with all minors requiring adult supervision. Your kids will have to conquer stabilized Andes bridges and a climbing ladder, as well as the 512 foot zip line.
Price: $18.95
Adventure Course has a slightly higher age limit, with participants required to be at least 10 years old. The course obstacles are correspondingly more difficult, including a 30 foot high climbing wall and a high-wire tight rope. This is one course that is not designed for the faint of heart!
Price: $43.95
Sensation Course may have to wait until you have some kiddo-free time. Minors aren't admitted to this challenging course, but it's full of exhilarating fun for adults. Set aside some grownup time if you feel like pushing yourself to your limit.
Price: $65.95
2.) Safety. There are safety mechanisms in place to help you breathe easy.
Courses have a double safety system, with participants wearing harnesses secured by two separate carabiners, and moving ahead one at a time so that they are never completely unlatched. There is also a test course designed to show participants how to navigate different obstacles, and understand the color system indicating where to attach carabiners and latch pulleys.
3.) Preparation. Make sure to follow the course recommendations if you're planning to try out the zip lines.
Shoes must be closed toed, and it is strongly recommended that they be of the athletic variety. As for pants, the longer the better. Gloves are a necessity, but the park's loaner pairs are probably more course-appropriate than any lying around the house. Their grippy palms and open fingertips make them perfect for the challenges ahead. One more thing to be cognizant of is long hair—tying back long locks is a safety must, so remember to track down some hair bands before you leave the house.
Don't forget the waivers! If your kid is bringing a friend, it is required that they have a waiver signed by a parent or guardian. The forms are downloadable on the Zip Wild main page.
Wildlife Parks are pretty special places for children, and the addition of Zip Wild makes for a truly exceptional experience. The memory of the shining faces of your children as they recount their adventures will be cherished for a long, long time.
