ZIPstream Aerial Adventure

Remember those dreams you had of flying through the sky, climbing high up in a tree and walking a tightrope far above ground? Well, those dreams are coming true at Ruby Falls newest summer activity course - the ZIPstream Aerial Adventure.

Imagine what it feels like to be free as a bird.

Okay, not quite as free as a bird, considering birds don't need to wear all the harnessing and safety equipment you'll be tethered to on the above-ground course. Still, there is a rush of adrenaline that comes with conquering a course like the ZIPstream that will make you feel as if you're free as a bird.

Over 30 high-wire adventure elements are stretched out through the treetops near Ruby Falls. Ladders, nets, sky-walkways, bridges, tunnels and zip lines make for a thrilling challenge - especially if you happen to look down and realize how far up you actually are. But don't worry, the entire course is equipped to a belay system that tethers participants to a safety cable while they climb, crawl and balance.

Like ski slopes the course is broken down into color-coded sections that tell you which parts are easiest and which parts are going to get more difficult, going from orange, to green to blue currently, with plans to add the red and black diamond courses in the future. Depending upon your pace, the courses can take anywhere from 45 to 90 minutes to complete.

Children ages 6-10 are invited to try their skill on the orange course ($16.95), a shorted, lower course that only reaches 7 feet off ground at its highest point. Children who wish to participate must reach a minimum height of 55 inches while standing flat footed. The green and blue courses ($30.95 for both) are open to ages 11 and up. Participants must be able to reach a height of 70 inches while standing flat footed. No one over 275 pounds is allowed on the course for safety reasons.

HelloMetro Tip: Each participant -- or a guardian -- is required to sign a waiver before attempting the course. The course will be open from Memorial Day through Labor Day 2010.

- by Christine Foster, Chattanooga Reporter for HelloMetro  (Click to leave a message)

Christine Foster

Christine is a freelance writer currently living in North Atlanta. She has worked as a reporter for numerous newspaper, magazine and online media companies, including the Florida Keys Keynoter and The Sunday Paper in Atlanta. When she's not working Christine enjoys baking and antiquing.