Whistler: The Longest Zipline in North America

If you’re craving an adventure that combines breathtaking scenery with a serious dose of adrenaline, the Whistler zipline experience is hard to beat. Stretching over 2 kilometers, this tour promises to deliver one of the most exhilarating rides you’ll find north of the border. Whether you’re a seasoned thrill-seeker or just looking to tick an unforgettable experience off your bucket list, this tour offers a unique way to see the stunning beauty of British Columbia.

Two features particularly stand out: the spectacular views of Blackcomb Mountain and Fitzsimmons Valley and the expert guides who keep you safe and informed. That said, it’s worth noting that the tour involves some walking and stair climbing, which could be a consideration for travelers with mobility issues or those who prefer a more relaxed adventure. This experience suits those who want an active, scenic thrill with professional support every step of the way.

Key Points

• Longest zipline in North America at over 2 km in length.
• Spectacular mountain views of Blackcomb and Whistler Valley.
• Guides are well-reviewed, knowledgeable, and reassuring.
• Adventure suits a range of ages and fitness levels with some physical requirements.
• Weather conditions do not stop the activity — it runs rain or shine.
• Good value considering the length of the ride and scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at Whistler’s Longest Zipline Experience

The journey begins in the heart of Whistler Village at the Ziptrek Outfitting Base, conveniently located at the base of the Excalibur Gondola. After a quick check-in, you’ll gear up with all necessary equipment, which includes a helmet, harness, and gloves—nothing too complicated, but essential for safety. The tour keeps group sizes limited to 10 people, making for a more personal experience, and guides are always on hand to keep everything running smoothly.

Riding the Blackcomb Gondola

Your adventure starts with a scenic ride up Blackcomb Mountain on the Blackcomb Gondola. This lift alone is a highlight, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and forest. As you ascend, your guide will likely share some insights about the local landscape, wildlife, or history, making the ride part of the overall experience rather than just transport.

Reaching the top, you’ll disembark and hop into a short shuttle van that takes you to the launch area. This transfer is also part of the adventure, giving you time to soak in more of the awe-inspiring scenery. The entire process ensures you gradually build anticipation for the main event: zipping over 2 km from mountain to mountain.

The Zipline itself

Once at the launch point, your adrenaline kicks in. The line snakes from Blackcomb to Whistler Mountain, crossing the Fitzsimmons Valley. You’ll feel the wind in your hair as you accelerate to max speeds of over 100 km/h, with some reviews reporting speeds up to 160 km/h. This is no gentle ride—it’s a high-velocity flight, with the spectacular mountain backdrop adding to the thrill.

According to reviews, the initial moments can be shockingly fast, which heightens the excitement. Mandy from the UK called it “brilliant,” emphasizing the “ridiculously fast” start that leaves you breathless. For many, the rush of speed combined with the panoramic vistas is the highlight of the tour, creating that perfect blend of thrill and scenery.

The Views

While the adrenaline is the main draw, the views are equally memorable. You’ll glide over Fitzsimmons Valley, taking in the lush forests, rugged peaks, and distant lakes. Several reviews mention how breathtaking the scenery is. Kim from the UK described the experience as “amazing,” citing the “outstanding views” that make every second worth it.

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Landing and Return

After the exhilarating fly, you’ll land near the mid-mountain area of Whistler. From there, it’s a short ride back down on the Whistler Gondola. The return trip offers a more relaxed chance to reflect on your experience while enjoying the scenery from a different perspective.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Value for money is a common theme in reviews, especially considering the length of the zipline and the professionalism of guides. At $113 per person, many feel it’s a fair price for such a lengthy, scenic ride with all equipment included. The guides earn praise for their safety knowledge and friendly demeanor; one reviewer called Sophie “excellent,” mentioning how easy she made everyone feel.

Guides like Hannah and Luke are repeatedly praised for their reassuring presence, especially helpful for first-timers or nervous riders. Bailey’s coaching helped some participants feel more comfortable, making the experience accessible even for those initially hesitant.

Physical Demands and Considerations

While the tour is generally suitable for a wide range of people, there are some physical aspects to keep in mind. Participants need to be comfortable with stair climbing and trail walking, as the start and landing areas involve some effort. The activity is not recommended for children under 10, pregnant women, or individuals with mobility issues.

The minimum weight requirement is 75 lbs (34 kg), with an upper limit of 275 lbs (125 kg). Minors under 15 need guardian approval, and minors 18 or younger must sign waivers. Some travelers noted that walking and stair climbing were easier for those in good shape, but it might be a consideration for less active visitors.

Weather and Safety

The tour operates in all weather conditions, so rain or shine, you can expect to fly. This outdoor activity is designed to prioritize safety, with top-tier equipment and guides who emphasize proper procedures. The reviews reinforce this, with many travelers feeling secure throughout their ride.

Additional Tips

• Bring closed-toe shoes — open-toed footwear is not permitted.
• Consider bringing your own camera if you want to take photos during the ride. Some reviews mention disappointment over the inability to easily access phones or cameras during the flight; guides take your devices at the bottom, so you might want to attach a GoPro or similar device.
• Be prepared for some walking or stair climbing at the start and finish, which is part of the adventure’s physical element.
• If you’re traveling with family or a group, remember that the maximum group size is limited, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Authentic Experiences from Other Travelers

The reviews paint a picture of a consistently high-quality experience. Many highlight the professionalism of guides like Hannah, Luke, and Ollie, who are both reassuring and knowledgeable. The breathtaking views repeatedly receive praise, with visitors describing the scenery as “outstanding” and “stunning,” reinforcing the idea that this isn’t just a thrill ride but a scenic tour as well.

Some reviewers, like Trevor from the UK, pointed out a practical concern about hearing aids, which can be dislodged during the ride. This is a helpful heads-up for those who wear hearing devices.

Others appreciated the personal touches—like the helpful staff who refunded a GoPro hire after a mishap or the friendly atmosphere created by guides. This human element adds to the overall value of the experience.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This zipline adventure in Whistler is perfect for adventure lovers who want to combine heart-ropping speeds with spectacular mountain views. It’s especially suited for those comfortable with some physical activity, given the walking involved, and who appreciate professional guides ensuring their safety.

Families with older children (over 10) or groups looking for a memorable shared experience will find this an ideal activity. It’s also a good choice for travelers who want a high-value, scenic thrill that’s well-organized and consistently praised.

While the price might seem steep to some, the length of the zipline and the quality of the experience—plus the stunning scenery—make it a worthwhile splurge. Just be prepared for the rush and the mountain views—you’ll leave with stories that last a lifetime.

FAQ

Is this zipline suitable for children?
Children must be at least 10 years old and travel with an adult. Minors under 15 need guardian approval, and all minors require a waiver signed by their guardian.

What should I wear?
Closed-toe shoes are required. Dress comfortably for outdoor activity, and consider layers if the weather changes.

Can I bring my own camera?
You can attach your own camera or GoPro, but guides take your devices at the bottom at the start, so plan accordingly. Some reviews mention the difficulty of taking photos during the ride.

What is the maximum speed I might experience?
Participants have reached speeds of over 100 km/h, with some reports up to 160 km/h, making it a truly exhilarating ride.

What is included in the price?
All necessary equipment, professional guides, and transportation from the meeting point to the launch area are included. The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours.

Is the tour operated in bad weather?
Yes, the activity runs rain or shine. Guides prioritize safety, and the experience is designed to operate in all weather conditions.

Are there physical requirements or limitations?
Participants need to be comfortable with stair climbing and trail walking. The activity is not suitable for pregnant women, those with mobility impairments, or people over 275 lbs (125 kg).

To sum it up, Whistler’s longest zipline offers a mix of thrill, scenery, and professional guidance that makes it a standout experience. It’s best suited for those seeking an active adventure with awe-inspiring views and don’t mind a bit of physical exertion. If you’re after a memorable, high-speed ride through some of Canada’s most stunning landscapes, this tour is likely to deliver — just be prepared for its physical demands and plan accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here: