All-Day Guided Zipline Tour with Train Ride and Lunch in Durango

Travelers looking for a blend of adrenaline, scenic beauty, and a touch of history will find this Durango zipline adventure hard to beat. Combine soaring through treetops on the world’s largest zipline course with a scenic train ride and a gourmet meal, and you get an experience that’s both exhilarating and memorable. While the price might make some pause—at $650 per person—many find the value in the variety and quality of the activities packed into this roughly eight-and-a-half-hour day.

Two aspects we particularly love are the stunning views from the ziplines, which stretch over 56 to 1400 feet, and the knowledgeable guides who make the entire experience feel safe, fun, and educational. That said, it’s not a tour for everyone—travelers with limited mobility or those seeking a low-key day might find it a bit intense or physically demanding. This adventure appeals most to active travelers, nature enthusiasts, and those eager to add a dash of adventure to their visit to Durango.

Key Points

• The tour features 27 ziplines, offering a wide variety of heights and lengths that promise both thrill and panoramic views.
• A gourmet four-course lunch is served overlooking the Animas River, adding a touch of elegance amid the adventure.
• The guided ecology tour enriches your understanding of the surrounding old-growth forests.
• The first-class train ride from Durango’s historic station offers a relaxing and scenic start and end to the day.
• Bookings are typically made 75 days in advance, so plan ahead for this popular experience.
• The tour is rated a perfect 5 stars based on 86 reviews, with full recommendation from participants.

The Itinerary: A Day Filled with Excitement and Scenic Splendor

Your day begins at 479 Main Ave in Durango, where you’ll meet your guides and hop onto a comfortable, modern transportation vehicle. From there, the adventure kicks off with a scenic train ride aboard the red Tall Timber train car, departing from the historic Durango train station. Many travelers describe this part as a highlight, noting the first-class seating and the chance to relax while soaking in views of the rugged Colorado landscape.

Once you arrive at the zipline site—home to what’s claimed as the largest zipline course in the world—your guides will give a thorough safety briefing. The course includes 27 ziplines, with spans ranging from 56 to a remarkable 1,400 feet. While some of these zips whisk you high above the treetops, others zip across valleys, offering an adrenaline rush paired with spectacular vistas. Reviewers like Angela_W expressed enthusiasm, saying, “OMG where do we start! First, you’re traveling first class on an awesome scenic train ride to the Soaring Tree Top Adventures in Durango. It’s true, they have the largest zip line course in the world, 27 amazing breathtaking lines.”

The Zipline Experience: Height, Length, and Safety

The variety in zipline lengths and heights keeps the experience engaging. You’ll probably feel a mix of excitement and awe as you glide over dense forests and maybe even catch glimpses of wildlife. Guides emphasize safety and provide equipment that fits well and feels secure, ensuring even nervous first-time zipliners can feel confident.

The guides’ knowledge also enriches the experience—they point out interesting flora, fauna, and forest history. Many reviews praise their professionalism and friendliness, making even the most anxious feel at ease. Expect to spend roughly 3-4 hours on the zipline course, with plenty of breaks to soak in the scenery.

Lunch in the Canopy: A Gourmet Treat

After zipping through the treetops, you’ll take a break for lunch—an unexpected highlight for many. The four-course gourmet meal is served overlooking the Animas River, offering a peaceful and scenic dining backdrop. This isn’t your typical packed lunch: think thoughtfully prepared dishes that elevate the experience and add a touch of luxury.

Good food, good company, and stunning views make this a memorable part of the day. It’s a chance to relax, chat about what you’ve experienced so far, and enjoy the natural beauty around you.

Ecology Tour and Education

Following lunch, there’s an ecology tour that helps you better understand the old-growth forests that surround Durango. Guides share insights into the local ecosystem—how the trees grow, their importance to the environment, and the history of the land. Reviewers find these educational bits fascinating, adding depth to the adventure rather than just being a sightseeing trip.

The Return Train Ride and End of Day

The day concludes with a return trip on the Tall Timber train car, heading back to Durango. Many travelers appreciate this relaxing end—especially after the physical activity and adrenaline rush of the zipline course. The train ride also offers excellent photo opportunities and a chance to reflect on the day’s highlights.

Practical Details and Considerations

Duration and Group Size

The entire experience lasts about 8.5 hours, giving ample time to enjoy each component without feeling rushed. The tour typically accommodates up to 60 travelers, meaning it’s large enough to be lively but still manageable with attentive guides.

Physical Fitness and Age

A moderate level of physical fitness is recommended; the tour involves some walking and climbing, especially if you choose to participate in all zipline sections. It’s suitable for most adults in good health but might be less ideal for those with mobility issues or serious health concerns.

Price and Value

At $650 per person, this tour isn’t inexpensive, but the price reflects the comprehensive nature of the experience—an all-day adventure combining thrilling activity, scenic train travel, fine dining, and educational components. For thrill-seekers and those eager for a full immersion into Durango’s natural beauty, many find it well worth the cost.

Booking and Cancellation

Reservations should be made about 75 days in advance, given its popularity. The tour offers free cancellation, allowing flexibility if your plans change, as long as you cancel at least 24 hours beforehand.

Authentic Traveler Perspectives

Reviewers consistently highlight the professionalism of guides and the stunning scenery as major pluses. Angela_W’s words capture the excitement: “OMG where do we start! First, you’re traveling first class on an awesome scenic train ride to the Soaring Tree Top Adventures in Durango, Colorado. It’s true, they have the largest zip line course in the world, 27 amazing breathtaking lines.”

Others mention the value of combining multiple experiences into a single day, noting the quality of the food and the safety of the zipline operation. A few point out that the tour is quite full—so expect a busy, well-organized day.

This adventure suits those who crave a combination of thrill and scenery, and who enjoy a full day of active engagement. It’s ideal for travelers in decent physical shape, eager to experience Durango’s outdoor charm in a condensed, fun-packed format. Families with older children, adventure lovers, and outdoor enthusiasts will find it a memorable highlight.

However, if you’re looking for a slow-paced or low-impact day, this might feel a bit too intense. It’s also a good choice if you value high-quality guides and well-organized logistics.

This zipline, train, and dining tour in Durango offers a comprehensive and unforgettable experience. While it demands a good deal of energy, the payoff is a day filled with adrenaline, beautiful vistas, and a taste of Colorado’s wilderness. The combination of scenic train rides, expert-guided forest ecology talks, and the thrill of ziplining makes it a well-rounded adventure.

Given the high praise from previous travelers, it’s clear this tour delivers on its promises—stunning views, knowledgeable guides, and a mix of excitement and relaxation. It’s best suited for active travelers who want to make the most of their time in Durango and enjoy a unique, multi-layered outdoor experience.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While specific age restrictions aren’t listed, the physical demands and safety equipment suggest it’s best for older children and adults. Check directly with the provider for age requirements.

How long is the train ride?
The exact duration isn’t specified, but it’s long enough to enjoy a scenic, first-class journey from Durango’s historic station to the zipline site and back.

What should I wear for the zipline?
Comfortable, weather-appropriate outdoor clothing and closed-toe shoes are recommended. Expect to wear safety harnesses provided by guides.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled time, making it flexible for uncertain schedules.

Is this tour family-friendly?
Most likely, but given the physical nature and height of ziplines, it’s best suited for active, confident older children and adults.

How many ziplines are included?
There are 27 ziplines in total, providing a variety of lengths and heights to keep the experience engaging.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers transportation, the zipline course, the scenic train ride, and the gourmet lunch. Equipment and guides are also provided.

Is there any special preparation needed?
No specific preparation is indicated, but comfortable outdoor clothing, a sense of adventure, and readiness for physical activity are advised.

This Durango zipline tour offers a well-rounded, adventure-filled day that marries thrill, nature, and a touch of luxury. It’s perfect for travelers eager to experience Colorado’s wilderness in an active way, with the reassurance of expert guides and a thoughtfully organized itinerary.