ZIP-LINING : OHIO & MASSACHUSETTS
The river that you will trudge through is most often knee-deep , but can get up to your waist , so you will want to plan a trip during the summertime , in order to ensure warmer waters . This is also the peak season for storms and flash floods , so avoid the Narrows during these times . The option for a daytrip is available , but if you ’ re looking for a true “ all-in ” adventure , take on the Top Down Hike from Chamberlain ’ s Ranch . A permit is required for this hike but it is well worth it , as you will be working your way through the canyons for 1-2 days . With surrounding walls as high as 1,000 feet , you will feel completely submersed in Zion ’ s breathtaking landscape .
If you can ’ t make it to Zion , try Antelope Canyon in Arizona or Smith Rock State Park in Oregon . Both offer amazing trails , and Smith Rock State Park has more than 10 different climbing areas alone . The Upper Canyon of Antelope is very easy to walk through and get to , so it is accessible for leisure walks only . The Lower Canyon is the tricky one that requires climbing skills and the use of the ladders to descend into the muddy , jagged rocks . This is an example of a climb that must be guided .
96 Summer 2016 Adventure Outdoors
ZIP-LINING : OHIO & MASSACHUSETTS
Zip-lines , which were originally created as a means of transportation , have been around for over 200 years . They were used to carry goods ( and sometimes people ) over rough and dangerous terrain . Now , zip-lining has become a popular choice when adventurists are thinking of trying out a fresh pastime . Zip-lining is a fairly new outdoor activity to the U . S ., being that in 2001 , there were only 10 or so zip-lines in America . Today , there are well over 200 services and trails that offer zip-lining for all ages .
First time zip-liner ? Break the ice in Rockbridge , Ohio , where Zip-lining is a main attraction . There are several well-known tours that will take you on a zip-line adventure for miles , and have you zooming right alongside cliffs , over streams , and through moss-covered mountains , giving you the ultimate point of view for exploring Ohio ’ s wildlife . They even offer nighttime tours and special trips to accommodate small children . Seriously , if you ’ ve never thought about zip-lining before , it needs to be a top priority as your next excursion .
Charlemont , Massachusetts is another top-notch zip-lining destination , where you will be able to zip , then hike , then zip again . Traveling through the wilderness only to reach another line and go plunging into the air again makes for an amazing adventure . Tour services are also affordable , with the average zip-line tour in the region running at about $ 70- $ 80 per person .