ADVENTURE BY DAY

PARTY BY NIGHT

ADVENTURE BY DAY

PARTY BY NIGHT

ADVENTURE BY DAY

PARTY BY NIGHT

Slackline

Three barefoot campers balance with arms outstretched on slacklines strung between pine trees in the woods at Camp Wildfire

SLACKLINE

Arms up, knees soft, eyes on the tree. Slacklining is a wobbly, oddly addictive balance challenge, and everyone looks slightly ridiculous at first. That's the fun.

What is slacklining?

Slacklining is walking and balancing on a flat strip of stretchy webbing tied tight between two anchor points, usually trees. Think tightrope, but bouncier. The line flexes and sways under your feet, so your whole body keeps making tiny corrections to stay on. It grew up among rock climbers, and it's now a sport and circus skill in its own right.

What are the different types of slackline?

Beginner lines are wide, tight and low to the ground. Stepping off is more of a hop than a fall, which is exactly what you want.

Tricklining is the flashy one: a bouncy line for jumps, spins, butt bounces and, for the very brave, flips.

Longlining is all about distance. Longer lines sway more, so it's slow, focused and surprisingly meditative.

Highlining takes the line high above the ground, with the walker clipped to it by a harness and leash. Very much not a first-day thing.

Waterlining puts the line over water, so a fall ends in a splash. Towel recommended.

Yoga slacklining is exactly what it sounds like: yoga poses, held on a line. Calm, balanced and just a little bit showy.

What happens at a beginner slackline session?

Your Activity Leader shows you how to get on and off the line safely, then it's time for the big moment: standing up. Place one foot straight along the line, bend that knee and fix your eyes on a point ahead, not on your feet. Arms go high and wide, like you're signalling a plane. A helping hand keeps you steady at first. From there you build up to a few steps, walking the length, turning around and maybe landing a small trick.

Is slacklining good for beginners?

Absolutely. Nobody gets it on the first try, and that's the joy of it. Progress comes fast once your body clicks, and the jump from wobbling for two seconds to walking tree to tree feels huge. It's also great for a bit of friendly competition. Who makes it furthest wins, and who falls off most gets the sympathy vote.

What should I wear for slacklining?

Comfy clothes that let your legs move freely. Lots of people walk barefoot or in thin, flat-soled shoes to feel the line better, so leave the chunky boots in the tent. Empty your pockets and take off dangly jewellery first.

FAQ
DO I NEED ANY EXPERIENCE?

No. Sessions start from the very first step, and all the kit is provided.

IS SLACKLINING SAFE?

Losing your balance on the line can cause a fall, which can lead to bruises, sprains or fractures. Always step off the line with control and look where you'll land. Do not bounce or jump on the line unless the Activity Leader says so, and do not get on a line while someone else is walking it.

CAN EVERYONE TRY SLACKLINING?

You need to be able to walk and balance on both legs. A helper can hold your hand to steady you while you practise.

WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A SLACKLINE AND A TIGHTROPE?

A tightrope is a rope or cable pulled very tight so it barely moves. A slackline is flat webbing that stretches and bounces, so it moves with you.

Slackline at Camp Wildfire

Cost

Free

Drop-in

Featured at

Camp Wildfire

  • 2024
  • 2025
  • 2026

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