Zipwire

A Zipwire is a steel cable stretched from a high point to a lower one, with a pulley called a trolley that rolls along it. You're clipped to the trolley by a harness, you step off the platform and gravity does the rest, sending you flying over the ground until a brake slows you at the end. No wings needed.

Depending on where you are, you might hear it called a flying fox or an aerial runway. Same thing, same wire, same slightly undignified noise as you step off.

Treetop Zipwires link platforms high in the forest, so you fly from tree to tree like a very well-insured squirrel.

Tower Zipwires launch from the top of a tall tower and run a long way down to a landing zone, usually with a big view thrown in.

Twin Zipwires run side by side, so you and a friend can launch together and settle the argument once and for all.

Some long Zipwires let you ride lying face-down, superhero style. Cape not included. At the other end of the scale, playground Zipwires are short, low and come with a seat, and yes, you're allowed to still love them.

It starts with a safety briefing on the ground. Your helmet and harness get fitted and checked, then you climb the steps to the launch platform. Up top, your Activity Leader clips you onto the trolley and double-checks everything.

Then comes the big moment. Sit back into your harness, hold the straps and step off. The wire takes your weight instantly and you're away, wind in your face and the ground rushing past below. Many Zipwires use a brake system near the end, so you slow down smoothly without lifting a finger. At the bottom you get unclipped, and you'll probably be grinning from ear to ear. Everyone is.

Good news: there's no skill to learn. You don't steer, you don't brake and you don't need to be fit or sporty. The only tricky bit is that first step off the platform, and even the most nervous riders tend to land at the bottom wanting another go. It's a brilliant way to face a wobble about heights on your own terms.

Zipwires have minimum and maximum weight limits so the harness and brake work properly, so check those before you go.

Trousers or shorts that feel comfy under a harness, and closed-toe shoes with decent grip for the tower steps. Tie back long hair, secure your sunglasses and empty your pockets. Your phone is not coming down with you, at least not attached to you.

You might also like Aerial Bungee, Tree Climbing and Flying Trapeze.

See all Camp Wildfire activities