Travelers seeking a memorable blend of adrenaline, stunning scenery, and unique activities will find the Juneau Alpine Zipline Adventure a compelling choice. We haven’t done it ourselves, but based on official info and a glowing review, this tour promises a fun, safe, and memorable rainforest experience. Expect soaring through treetops, breathtaking mountain vistas, and a taste of local wilderness culture—all in a manageable 3.5-hour window.
What draws us most is the no hand-braking setup, the opportunity to capture plenty of photos, and the ending axe-throwing activity—a quirky twist that adds fun and authenticity to the adventure. The guided narration about local flora, fauna, and Southeast Alaska’s lifestyle enriches the experience, making it more than just zipping through trees. One potential consideration is that this tour requires walking up about 50 stairs and is not suited for those with certain health issues or pregnancy. That said, it’s best suited for active travelers ready to embrace heights and outdoor fun.
Key Points
- Scenic setting: Located in Juneau’s Tongass National Forest with mountain views.
- Safety first: Guides handle all equipment, with no hand-braking required.
- Authentic experiences: Includes treehouse landings, narration, and axe throwing.
- Family-friendly: Suitable for ages 8+ and participants weighing 70-250 pounds.
- Photo souvenirs: Professional photos available afterward.
- Time-efficient: Just over three hours, perfect for cruise passengers or day-trippers.
A Complete Breakdown of the Juneau Alpine Zipline Adventure
Looking for more options in Juneau City Alaska? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Starting Point and Transportation
This tour begins at Eaglecrest Ski Area, a familiar locale for ski and outdoor enthusiasts. From there, a narrated drive takes you to Douglas Island, offering beautiful mountain views and lush forest scenery. The transportation component is smooth and scenic, giving you a taste of the Alaskan wilderness even before you start zipping.
The Guides and Safety
Guides play a central role in making this experience enjoyable and secure. They’re described as friendly and knowledgeable, with a focus on safety. They outfit you with top-of-the-line gear and conduct a safety briefing, ensuring everyone understands how the no-hands braking system works. The guides are also responsible for photos, making sure no moment is missed during your adventure.
Practice Zips and Prep
Before jumping into the main course, you get to build confidence with two practice zips. This is great for nervous travelers or anyone new to ziplining, as it allows you to get comfortable with the equipment and the sensation of gliding through the trees. The practice area is a relaxed environment, setting the stage for a more adventurous spirit later.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Main Zipline Course
You’ll traverse five ziplines, with the longest stretching about 600 feet. The course is designed to maximize excitement without feeling overwhelming. Each zip is land in a fully enclosed treehouse platform, offering a perfect spot to take in the views or snap pictures. The guides share tidbits about local plant life and wildlife, adding educational value to the thrill.
Unique Features and Highlights
- No hand-braking: Means you simply sit and zip, while guides manage the equipment and safety.
- Treehouse landings: Adds a whimsical touch and provides scenic spots to rest and photograph.
- Suspension bridge: Near the end, crossing over a rushing stream offers a fun, slightly daring moment.
- Axe throwing: An unexpected but popular activity to cap off the tour, letting you channel your inner lumberjack.
Photography and Memories
Throughout the tour, photos are taken, capturing the fun and scenery. Afterward, you can view a slideshow and purchase prints or mementos. This feature is a hit with guests who want to relive the experience or share it with friends.
End of Tour and Additional Options
Once your ziplining adventure concludes, you return to the lodge where you can browse a gift shop and pick up your photos. The entire experience is designed to be light, fun, and easily memorable within 3.5 hours.
What to Expect: The Practical Details
The Itinerary
- Meeting Point: Underneath the Mt. Robert’s Tram lines, where staff with “Alpine Zipline Adventure” signs await.
- Drive Duration: About 15-20 minutes to Douglas Island, offering scenic views en route.
- Zipping Time: Roughly 2 hours of actual ziplining spread across 5 lines.
- Additional Activities: Treehouse landings, narration, suspension bridge crossing, and axe throwing.
- Return: Back to the meeting point, with time for photos and souvenirs.
Suitability and Restrictions
This tour is aimed at active, outdoor-loving adventurers. The minimum age is 8, and participants should weigh between 70-250 pounds. It’s not recommended for pregnant women, those with recent surgeries, or people with certain health conditions like seizures or back problems. The tour involves about 50 stairs, so a reasonable level of fitness is necessary.
What to Wear and Bring
Layered clothing is advised because weather can change quickly. A rain jacket is recommended, especially if the forecast calls for rain, common in Juneau’s climate. Closed-toe shoes are mandatory, and no food or drinks are allowed on the tour.
Cost and Value
At $245 per person, the tour offers a mix of adrenaline, stunning scenery, and unique activities. Considering the guided safety, professional photos, and multiple ziplines, it provides solid value for those looking for a full rainforest adventure in a half-day timeframe.
Authentic Guides Make All the Difference
The guides are a standout feature, according to reviews. Their knowledge about local flora, fauna, and Alaskan life enriches the experience. They also handle all equipment, ensuring safety and comfort. Their friendly demeanor adds a personal touch, making nervous guests feel at ease.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This activity is ideal for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and anyone wanting a taste of Alaska’s rainforest from a new perspective. It’s especially suited to travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, are comfortable with heights, and appreciate guided safety.
Final Thoughts: Is the Juneau Alpine Zipline Adventure Worth It?
This tour offers a thrilling ride through the forest canopy, with professional guides ensuring safety and fun. The combination of scenic landings, educational narration, and a quirky axe-throwing finale makes it stand out from typical zipline experiences. It’s a well-paced activity, fitting comfortably into a day’s sightseeing without feeling rushed.
For travelers craving an active, memorable encounter with Juneau’s wilderness, this tour hits all the right notes. It balances adrenaline with education, scenic beauty with fun, and keeps safety front and center. Plus, the photo options mean you’ll have a tangible reminder of your rainforest adventure.
To sum it up, if you’re comfortable with heights and looking for a unique way to see Alaska’s lush forests, this zipline tour offers excellent value and genuine adventure. It’s a fantastic choice for families, couples, or solo travelers wanting to add a splash of excitement to their Alaskan trip—just remember to wear layered clothes and be ready for a fun, safe ride.
FAQ
Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation from and back to the meeting point is part of the tour, starting at Eaglecrest Ski Area.
What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 3.5 hours, allowing plenty of time for zipping, photos, and the axe-throwing activity.
Can I participate if I’m afraid of heights?
While some may find the heights challenging, the guides are experienced and supportive. The two practice zips prepare you for the main course, but it’s best to be comfortable with some elevation.
Is there an age restriction?
Yes, participants must be at least 8 years old. The tour is not suitable for children under this age.
What should I wear?
Layered clothing and closed-toe shoes are recommended. A rain jacket is advised given the weather in Juneau.
Are there any health restrictions?
Yes, this tour isn’t recommended for pregnant women, those with recent surgeries, seizures, or back/neck issues. It also involves about 50 stairs, so a reasonable level of fitness is needed.
In all, the Juneau Alpine Zipline Adventure offers a fantastic mixture of excitement, educational content, and Alaska’s untouched beauty—perfect for thrill-seekers and nature fans alike.
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