If you’re craving a dose of adrenaline paired with some of the best scenery in West Virginia, the Oak Hill Zipline Tour is worth considering. For $111 per person, this 3.5-hour adventure takes you soaring over the spectacular New River Gorge, crossing sky bridges, and zipping through treetops—all guided by knowledgeable instructors. The tour is suitable for those as young as 8 years old, with a weight range of 70 to 250 pounds, making it accessible for families, friends, and anyone looking for an active way to enjoy the outdoors.
What we really love about this experience is how it combines adventure with stunning panoramic views. You’ll get a chance to cross two sky bridges and enjoy nine different ziplines—some ranging up to 750 feet in length—giving you plenty of airtime and photo opportunities. Plus, the thrill of racing your friends on dual zips adds a fun competitive touch. The guides, like Liz according to reviews, are both fun and professional, making the experience not just exciting but also safe and well-organized.
One potential consideration is that you’ll need to be comfortable with heights and have closed-toe shoes, as safety is a priority. Also, the tour requires participants to weigh between 70 and 250 pounds, which might be restrictive for some. This tour suits active travelers, families with older kids, or anyone eager to see the gorge from a fresh, exhilarating perspective.
Key Points
- Stunning Views: Panoramic vistas of New River Gorge from heights up to 750 feet.
- Variety of Experiences: Nine ziplines and two sky bridges create a comprehensive adventure.
- Safety and Comfort: Uses gravity brakes, safety gear, and professional guides.
- Value for Money: Plenty of ziplining for the price, with a 3.5-hour duration.
- Inclusive for Families: Suitable for ages 8 and up, with a reasonable weight range.
- Flexible Booking: Free cancellation and pay later options add peace of mind.
Explore the Excitement of the New River Gorge
When we first looked into this zipline tour, what struck us was the combination of high adrenaline and breathtaking scenery. For many travelers, the real draw is the chance to view the expansive gorge from vantage points that are otherwise inaccessible. The tour’s nine ziplines span heights from 150 to 750 feet, ensuring you get an authentic taste of the landscape’s grandeur. You’ll glide over forested valleys, mountain streams, and rocky cliffs, capturing views that are as inspiring as they are exhilarating.
The two sky bridges are standout features. Unlike the usual ziplines that whisk you through the treetops, these bridges give you a chance to walk or swing across open-air spans suspended high above the ground. As one reviewer noted, “Liz was fantastic! She was a hoot! She was lots of fun and very entertaining.” The guides clearly know how to keep things light and engaging, making even nervous first-timers feel comfortable.
The dual zips add a playful competitive element. You can race friends side-by-side, which makes for some memorable moments and bragging rights. This feature, coupled with the scenic overlooks at each launch point and dismount, ensures you’re not just zipping from point A to B but truly soaking in the views. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a nature lover, this mix of adrenaline and awe-inspiring vistas strikes a good balance.
Planning more time in New River Gorge National Park? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
The Itinerary and Experience Breakdown
The tour begins with a shuttle ride from the meeting point to the launch area. This transport is included, which simplifies logistics and ensures you arrive comfortably at the starting line. Once there, your guides will equip you with safety gear—harnesses, helmets, and gravity brakes—training you on how to use them. The safety setup is thorough, giving travelers confidence before the first zip.
The nine ziplines are spread out across different heights and lengths, offering varied perspectives of the gorge. Zipping from heights of 150 feet up to 750 feet means you’ll experience both the rush of speed and the awe of the surrounding landscape. The tour’s design emphasizes scenic overlooks at every station, so you’ll often be encouraged to pause and take photos or just enjoy the view.
Crossing the two sky bridges is a highlight for many. These spans are dizzyingly suspended high above the ground, offering a different kind of thrill—walking across and feeling the wind and the vastness below. According to reviews, the guides are adept at making these moments fun and safe, even for those who might initially feel a bit apprehensive.
The race feature on dual zips is straightforward but effective. You and a friend can challenge each other side-by-side, adding a playful element to the adventure. It’s a reminder that while safety is paramount, it’s also about having fun and creating memorable moments.
The tour concludes with a return shuttle, taking you back to your starting point. The total experience lasts about 3.5 hours, which includes preparation, safety briefings, the actual ziplining, and some downtime for photos and relaxation.
Authenticity and Value
What makes this zipline tour stand out is its combination of authentic natural beauty and well-organized adventure. The $111 price tag reflects a comprehensive experience—nine ziplines, sky bridges, safety gear, guides, and shuttle service—offering solid value for those who want an active, scenic outing. Compared to other outdoor activities, this provides a full half-day of thrill and wonder, with opportunities to race friends or simply marvel at the stunning terrain.
The guides receive mention in reviews for being fun, knowledgeable, and professional, which significantly enhances the experience. Feeling safe and well-informed allows you to relax and truly enjoy the views and adrenaline rush.
The tour does not include photos or videos, which might be a downside for some travelers wanting to capture the moment without extra hassle or expense. However, this also encourages you to focus on the experience rather than worrying about selfies.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This zipline adventure is perfect for families with older children, typically those aged 8 and above, who are comfortable with heights. It’s ideal for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a day of active fun, as well as groups of friends wanting to race and share laughs. The scenic aspect makes it suitable for nature lovers eager to see the National Park from a new perspective—you’re not just zipping for the thrill, but also for the views.
If you’re someone who appreciates professional guides who can keep the mood lively while ensuring safety, this tour will meet your expectations. It also suits travelers who want a flexible booking with options for free cancellation or to reserve now and pay later, accommodating changing plans.
More Great Tours NearbyFrequently Asked Questions
How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 3.5 hours, including safety briefings, transfers, and the zipping itself.
What is included in the price?
Your fee covers the shuttle to and from the launch site, the zipline tour, safety equipment, and guides.
Are photos or videos available?
No, photos and videos are not included in the tour price, so you might want to bring your own camera if you wish to capture memories.
What is the minimum age to participate?
Participants must be at least 8 years old. This makes it suitable for families with children in this age range.
What is the weight limit?
You need to weigh between 70 and 250 pounds to join the tour, which is fairly standard for ziplining but worth checking if you’re on the borderline.
Is transportation provided?
Yes, the shuttle to and from the launch point is included, making logistics easier.
Do I need special clothing?
Closed-toe shoes are required for safety. Beyond that, comfortable outdoor clothing is recommended.
Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your plans.
Is this tour suitable for people with a fear of heights?
While the safety measures are robust, the heights involved might be challenging for those very sensitive to heights.
Is the tour available in multiple languages?
Currently, the experience is offered in English only.
Choosing the Oak Hill Zipline Tour in New River Gorge means opting for a well-rounded outdoor adventure that combines spectacular scenery, adrenaline-fueled fun, and professional guidance. For those who love the outdoors, enjoy a good challenge, or want to see one of West Virginia’s most famous landscapes from above, this tour delivers on all fronts.
It’s particularly suited to families with kids aged 8 and up, groups of friends who enjoy racing, or anyone eager to add a memorable highlight to their trip. The affordability, combined with the variety of ziplines and sky bridges, offers excellent value for a half-day out in nature.
If you’re looking for a fun, safe, and scenic adventure that makes you feel like you’re flying over one of the most impressive gorges in the United States, this tour could be just the right fit. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes, embrace a sense of adventure, and be ready for some fantastic views—and maybe a laugh or two along the way.
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