The aspens quake as you careen through the tree tops, suspended by a thick wire, whistling through the pines and over the rushing water of the Animas River below. Zip-lining in the rockies; a thrill seeking and relaxing experience all in one. Check out Soaring Colorado Tree Top Adventures! Soaring Colorado https://soaringcolorado.com is the longest zip line course in the United States with a total of 27 spans that range from 56′ to 1,400′ in length. So harness in, because here we go!
Narrow Gauge Train Ride
The journey begins in Durango, Colorado at the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad Depot. Here you board a coal-fired, steam powered railroader from 1882. Hop aboard the private, first class Soaring car and settle into the plush seats as the train whistle blows and the train starts to chug ahead.
The train seems to be saying “I think I can. I think I can. I think I can.”
Peer out the windows, or open them up and let the wind blow through your hair, as you pass through the town of Durango. Take note as you come out of town and the vast San Juan Mountain range comes into view. You’ll see the ominous old growth ponderosa pines swaying in the breeze as you hear the train creak back and forth as the tracks bend from the weight of the train. Expect the train ride to take about 2 hours from Durango to the Tall Timber Resort. It’s only 32 miles, but keep in mind, the train has a top speed of 18 mph.
The train will cross several bridges and through many narrow crevices. When the train stops and you realize there’s no depot, do not fear, the train just needs to refuel. It takes 6 tons of coal and 10,000 gallons of water for 1 round trip!
Soaring @ Tall Timber Resort
As you approach the resort, look out the left side of the train and you’ll see a Sky Ranger zipping through the trees, suspended only by a wire! It then hits you, that you’ll be doing that same thing very shortly! The staff warmly welcome you as you jump off the train and quickly get you suited up in your harness. Then its up the stairs and out the door for the first of 27 spans of zip line.
A rush of air hits you as you gingerly step off the platform. Your stomach drops when you realize there’s no longer anything under your feet. Then a smile hits your face and you’re instantly laughing due to the incredible joy you’re feeling. You’re flying! You’re then quickly greeted by a Sky Ranger at the next platform and away you go on the next span.
Soon, you’ll be doing flips and hanging upside down as you zip back and forth between ponderosa pines and across the rushing rapids of the Animas River. The Sky Rangers provide you with local history and knowledge of the flora and fauna as you pause between spans. You’ll finish the morning rush with semi-free fall drop to the ground.
Then its on to lunch-a gourmet meal served on a suspended platform looking over the Animas River. The food is delicious and don’t forget to get a copy of the recipe for the Soaring Bars.
After lunch, you’ll suit back up complete several unforgettable spans across the river and a side by side race with fellow thrill seeker. The last span of the day is the longest at 1,400 ft. You’ll be praying that it doesn’t end as the day has literally flown by.
At the end of the day, you’ll jump back on the train for a relaxing ride back to Durango. When you’re back in town check out one of the many culinary options for a delectable dinner.
