Oak Hill: Zipline Tour in New River Gorge National Park

Planning an adventure in West Virginia? If soaring through the air over dramatic cliffs sounds like your kind of thrill, then the Oak Hill Zipline Tour in New River Gorge is worth considering. With nine ziplines, two sky bridges, and heights reaching up to 750 feet, this experience promises an exhilarating mix of adrenaline and awe-inspiring scenery. The tour is well-rated, with a perfect score from recent reviews, and offers a balanced blend of thrill and safety.

What makes this tour stand out is the chance to zip across two swinging sky bridges and race friends on dual zips, adding a fun competitive element. The guides, praised for their humor and expertise, help make the experience memorable and safe. However, it’s important to note that the tour lasts around 3.5 hours, and participants need to be within a certain weight range and age, which is typical for ziplining adventures.

This tour appeals most to outdoor enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and those eager to see stunning panoramic views of the gorge from above. It’s a great way to combine scenic beauty with a dose of adrenaline, suitable for families with kids over 8 and adults alike, provided you’re comfortable with heights.

Key Points

• Spectacular Views: Expect panoramic, cliffside vistas of the New River Gorge and its lush surroundings.
• Multiple Ziplines: Nine cliffside zips, with heights ranging from 150 to 750 feet, for a variety of experiences.
• Sky Bridges: Cross two dizzyingly high sky bridges, adding a unique perspective on the landscape.
• Safety and Equipment: Use gravity brakes, eliminating the need for gloves or touching the cable directly.
• Fun Competition: Race friends on duel zips for bragging rights.
• Inclusive for Families: Suitable for ages 8 and above, with a weight limit of 70-250 pounds.

The Experience: What You Can Expect

When you sign up for the Oak Hill Zipline Tour, you’re signing up for more than just flying through the air—you’re entering a carefully curated adventure that highlights the natural beauty of New River Gorge. The adventure begins at ACE Adventure Resort, your starting point, where a safety briefing introduces you to the equipment and what to expect. The guides, known for their friendly and humorous approach, make sure everyone is comfortable before heading out.

Transportation and Arrival

The tour includes shuttle transportation from the resort to the zipline launch site, which takes about five minutes. This short ride sets the tone for the day—relaxing, scenic, and anticipation-building. It also helps ensure that the group remains together and safety checks can be efficiently conducted.

The Zipline Itself: Nine Cliffside Zips

The core of the experience involves nine zip lines, each offering different views and sensations. From the moment you launch, you’ll be treated to breathtaking overlooks of the gorge and surrounding mountains. The zips are designed with safety and fun in mind, with the use of gravity brakes that prevent the need for bulky gloves or touching the cable directly—making the experience more comfortable and less technical for participants.

One feature that stood out in reviews is the dual zips, allowing you to race friends and family. This adds a playful competitiveness that keeps energy high and creates memorable moments. The zips vary in height, with the tallest reaching an impressive 750 feet, giving you a real sense of flying over the treetops.

Sky Bridges: High & Daring

Crossing two sky bridges adds an extra layer of thrill. These suspension bridges sway gently but provide a dizzying view down into the gorge. They’re a favorite feature for many, offering a different kind of adrenaline—more about the sensation of height and the panoramic views than zipping at speed.

The Drop Tower Experience

While the itinerary mentions a free fall from a drop tower, it’s not detailed here whether this is part of the zipline experience or a separate activity at the resort. Still, if included, it’s likely to be a quick, adrenaline-pumping moment that complements the overall adventure.

Return and Reflection

After completing the nine zips and sky bridges, you’ll return to the resort by shuttle, feeling a mix of exhilaration and satisfaction. Many reviewers mention that guides like Jason and Mark help make the experience special with their humor and professionalism, reassuring first-timers and seasoned adventurers alike.

Pricing and Value

At $111 per person, this tour offers a solid value considering the length (about 3.5 hours) and the variety of experiences packed into it. Compared to other outdoor activities in the area, the price reflects a comprehensive adventure—multiple zips, safety gear, guides, and transportation are included. The fact that you can reserve now and pay later adds flexibility, especially if plans are yet to be firm.

While photos and videos are not included, many visitors find that the stunning views more than compensate for capturing moments on their phones. Plus, the safety equipment and guides ensure that even those new to ziplining feel confident and secure.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adventure lovers and outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy scenic landscapes and heights. It’s also suitable for families with kids aged 8 and above, provided they meet the weight requirements (70-250 pounds). If you’re nervous about heights or are traveling with someone who is, the guides’ friendly approach can help ease concerns.

The tour isn’t ideal for those with mobility issues or severe fear of heights, but for most, it offers a balanced combination of thrill and view. The short duration and manageable group sizes mean you won’t feel rushed or crowded.

Why We Recommend It

The Oak Hill Zipline Tour excels in offering stunning vistas combined with an adrenaline rush, making it a memorable highlight of any trip to New River Gorge. The multiple zips and sky bridges mean you get diverse perspectives of the gorge, from above and below. Plus, the guides’ humor and professionalism enhance the experience, making it both fun and safe.

If you’re looking for an activity that combines scenic beauty with physical thrill, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially appealing to those who want a taste of adventure without the commitment of a full day long excursion.

Final Thoughts

This zipline tour in New River Gorge is a fantastic choice for travelers craving outdoor adventure with spectacular views. Its value lies in the variety of activities—nine ziplines, sky bridges, and optional races—that keep the experience fresh and exciting. The safety measures and guides’ expertise ensure you can focus on having fun.

Whether you’re visiting with family, friends, or on your own seeking a thrill, the Oak Hill Zipline Tour delivers a memorable outdoor experience. It’s a high-value activity that beautifully showcases the rugged beauty of West Virginia’s most famous gorge.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes shuttle transportation to and from the launch point at ACE Adventure Resort.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 3.5 hours, including safety briefings, transportation, and the zipline activity.

What is the age requirement?
Participants must be at least 8 years old.

Is there a weight limit?
Yes, guests must weigh between 70 and 250 pounds to participate.

Are guides provided?
Yes, knowledgeable guides lead the tour, ensuring safety and adding humor to the experience.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Rescheduling policies depend on the booking platform.

Are photos or videos included?
No, photos and videos are not included, but you might want to bring your own device if you wish to capture the views.

What should I wear?
Closed-toe shoes are required for safety and comfort.

Is this suitable for families?
Yes, as long as children are over 8 and within the weight requirements.

What if I’m nervous about heights?
The guides are experienced and friendly, ready to help ease concerns. The views are worth it, but only you can decide your comfort level.

To sum it up, if you’re after a thrilling mix of scenic views and adventure, the Oak Hill Zipline Tour in New River Gorge offers just that. It’s a well-rounded experience that balances fun, safety, and stunning natural beauty—perfect for making lasting memories in West Virginia’s iconic landscape.