As one of the top things to do at Grand Canyon West, first-time riders are often surprised by the unique features of the zipline experience. Beyond the stunning views of the West Rim, several key differences set it apart from traditional zipline attractions.
These differences are what set the experience apart and why riding the zipline at Grand Canyon West is a must-do.
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#1. It Is a Two-Stage Ride
Guests get to enjoy two separate ziplines. The first is a short 1,100-foot run about 500 feet above the West Rim. It is considered the “warm-up” zipline to help get you used to the feeling of ziplining and momentum before moving on to the primary Grand Canyon West zipline.
The second line is the more dramatic, steeper, 2,100-foot main run. The second line puts you 700 feet directly over the canyon floor.
#2. You Control Your Speed
Your weight is just one factor in how fast you can move down the zipline. Most first-timers don’t realize that changing your body position while seated securely affects the attraction’s speed. For example, if maximum speed is your goal, then you want to tuck your arms in and bend forward, reducing wind shear. This lets you go much faster, up to 35 mph on the first line and 50 mph on the second line.
If you want to go slower, then stretch out your hands and arms and legs to the sides, as this creates more resistance and will slow you down a little. This will slow you down to about 25 mph on the first line and around 40 mph on the primary line.
#3. Climbing Stairs to the Launch Towers
Unlike traditional ziplines, which launch with gravity-fed step-offs, the Grand Canyon ziplines use a mechanical, operator-controlled launch system that you access by climbing stairs. The first line has five flights of stairs, and the primary line has seven flights of stairs.
#4. Four Side-By-Side Lines
Traditional ziplines usually only have a single line or dual lines, so it is harder to enjoy the experience with family and friends. The ziplines at Grand Canyon West feature four lines running side by side, allowing you to fly across the canyon simultaneously with up to four people in your party.
#5. Short Hike to the Finish
After completing the primary zipline, there is a short five to ten-minute non-strenuous hike to reach the Quartermaster Canyon viewpoint. Water is provided, and the course has markers.
Plan Your Visit to Grand Canyon West and Riding the Zipline Today
Grand Canyon West is about a two-hour drive from Las Vegas. It is the perfect day trip, or you can stay overnight at one of the cabins at Hualapai Point. Your All-Access Pass allows you to enjoy every attraction at the park, including the Skywalk, a glass bridge 4,000 feet above the canyon floor. Get your All-Access Pass in advance at discounted prices, and book a reservation for our cabins if you plan on staying overnight.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Grand Canyon Zipline Experience
These are some of the more common questions first-time visitors have about the zipline over the Grand Canyon West Rim and our park.
What Is the Grand Canyon Zipline Experience Like?
The zipline experience is unlike anything you have done before. The operator-controlled launch system also controls braking. The unique harness system has you seated, so you can sit back, relax, and take in the gorgeous views around you and down to the canyon floor. The flight is fast and only lasts a few minutes.
Is the Grand Canyon West Zipline Scary?
Most first-time riders are initially a little apprehensive about the climb up to the launch platforms and being suspended in the harness before being released. Once they are released, they don’t find the experience scary at all. Instead, they find the Skywalk at Eagle Point scarier because it is much higher over the canyon floor, and you peer directly down through the glass bridge.
What Do You See During the Ride?
The Hualapai Point zipline offers different views of the West Rim, including rugged, sweeping mountain views, the side canyon, and the canyon floor. Looking out, you can see the flat desert topography, along with multi-colored peaks. Looking down, you can clearly see the ravines, rocky faults, and desert flora.
What’s the Best Time To Ride the Zipline at Grand Canyon West?
If you want to enjoy the zipline as part of your Grand Canyon adventure, we recommend getting in line when the attraction opens at 9:20 a.m. This lets you enjoy all the attractions, shows, shopping, and dining at Guano Point, Eagle Point, and Hualapai Point. Most tour buses from Vegas don’t arrive until around noon, and wait times will be longer. We close our line at 3 p.m. or earlier, once we reach our ride capacity for that day.
