The state’s rugged canyons, alpine forests, and golden fall colors create the perfect backdrop for a high-flying adventure.
Here are the best ziplining adventures in Colorado this September—each offering its own unique thrill.
Table of Contents
Royal Gorge Zip Line Tours – Cañon City
Few places in Colorado pack as much drama as the Royal Gorge. Here, riders soar above the Arkansas River with views that stretch across rugged canyon walls and distant mountains.
Royal Gorge Zip Line Tours offers two main options: the Classic Tour with longer, scenic lines and the Extreme Tour with higher speeds and technical challenges.
Accessibility: Minimum weight is usually 50 lbs and maximum around 250 lbs. Kids above 6 years can join, making it family-friendly.
Booking: Reservations are strongly recommended, especially in September weekends.
Getting There: Cañon City is about a 2-hour drive from Denver and 45 minutes from Colorado Springs.
Where to Stay: Visitors often choose local cabins or hotels in Cañon City for easy access.
Why September? Clear skies and crisp air make the canyon views even sharper, and you’ll avoid the heavy summer rush.
Pro Tip: Pair your ride with a visit to the Royal Gorge Bridge & Park—it’s home to one of the highest suspension bridges in the world.
Captain Zipline – Salida
Hidden in the rugged canyons near Salida, Captain Zipline is one of Colorado’s most unique courses. Riders glide through Lost Canyon, where steep cliffs and jagged rock formations add to the thrill.
Beyond ziplines, the park also has an aerial adventure course and climbing park, making it a full-day destination.
Accessibility: Designed for families, though kids should meet height and weight requirements. Seniors can also join, provided they’re in good health.
Booking: Advance booking is recommended to secure your preferred time slot.
Getting There: Salida is around 2.5 hours from Colorado Springs and 3 hours from Denver.
Where to Stay: Stay in cozy riverside lodges or boutique hotels in downtown Salida.
September Advantage: This is the time when cottonwoods and willows along the Arkansas River start to show hints of yellow, giving your ride a scenic upgrade.
Insider Tip: After your adventure, relax in one of Salida’s natural hot springs—a perfect way to soothe sore muscles.
Top of the Rockies Zip Line – Leadville/Climax
Want to fly at over 11,000 feet above sea level? Top of the Rockies offers one of the highest elevation zipline tours in North America.
Located near Leadville, this course gives sweeping views of Mount Elbert, Mount Massive, and the surrounding 14ers.
Riders often catch glimpses of elk, deer, and even eagles while gliding through the alpine forest.
Accessibility: This tour is not recommended for children under 6 years, but older kids and adults love the alpine thrill.
Booking: Advance reservations are suggested during September, when fall colors attract extra visitors.
Getting There: Located near Leadville, about 2 hours from Denver and just over an hour from Vail.
Where to Stay: Book a cabin or lodge in Leadville to stay close to the action.
Why September is Special: The mountainsides explode with golden aspen groves, turning your zipline ride into a front-row seat to Colorado’s fall magic.
Travel Tip: Combine your tour with the Leadville Scenic Train Ride—it’s another unforgettable way to enjoy fall in the Rockies.
AVA Colorado Zipline – Idaho Springs & Buena Vista
AVA (Arkansas Valley Adventures) runs two of Colorado’s most popular zipline courses. The Idaho Springs location is just 30 minutes from Denver, making it perfect for a quick adventure.
The Buena Vista course, set against the Collegiate Peaks, offers cliffside ziplines and optional Via Ferrata routes for thrill-seekers.
Accessibility: Weight restrictions usually range from 50–250 lbs. Both locations are family-friendly, but children must meet height requirements.
Booking: Online reservations are highly advised, especially for Buena Vista in September.
Getting There: Idaho Springs is an easy drive west from Denver. Buena Vista is about 2.5 hours from Denver or Colorado Springs.
Where to Stay: Opt for riverside cabins in Buena Vista or mountain lodges near Idaho Springs.
September Vibe: With fewer crowds and crisp weather, both locations are at their best this time of year. Buena Vista especially shines with sweeping views of the Arkansas River framed by golden foliage.
Pro Tip: If you’re short on time, choose Idaho Springs. If you want mountain grandeur, head to Buena Vista.
Soaring Tree Top Adventures – Durango
Tucked deep in the San Juan Mountains, Soaring Tree Top Adventures is one of the most unique experiences in the world.
It’s not just a zipline—it’s the longest zipline course in the world, featuring 27 lines stretched through pristine forest.
To reach it, you ride the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, making the journey part of the adventure.
Accessibility: Open to most ages, but guests must meet standard weight requirements. Not suitable for toddlers or very young children.
Booking: Must be booked in advance—spots sell out weeks ahead during fall.
Getting There: Accessible only via the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. Visitors usually fly into Durango-La Plata Airport.
Where to Stay: Book a stay in Durango’s charming inns or mountain resorts for convenience.
Why September? The train ride itself becomes unforgettable as the San Juan Mountains light up with fiery reds, yellows, and oranges.
Insider Tip: Book well in advance—this one fills quickly, especially during fall.
Best for Different Types of Travelers
- Best for Families: Captain Zipline, AVA Zipline (Idaho Springs).
- Best for Thrill-Seekers: Royal Gorge Extreme Tour, Buena Vista Via Ferrata.
- Best for Scenic Views: Top of the Rockies, Soaring Tree Top Adventures.
- Best for a Quick Day Trip from Denver: AVA Idaho Springs.
- Best All-Day Adventure: Soaring Tree Top Adventures in Durango.
Conclusion
Colorado in September is pure magic, and ziplining is one of the best ways to experience its landscapes from a whole new angle.
Whether you’re soaring above the Royal Gorge, gliding through Lost Canyon, or riding the world’s longest zipline in Durango, these adventures blend adrenaline with breathtaking scenery.
Read More: 10 Best Fall Fishing Destinations in Colorado
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