Zipline Tour – 9 high-speed ziplines & fun suspension bridge

Imagine soaring through treetops, feeling the wind in your hair, and taking in stunning views of Johnson Valley from above. That’s exactly what you get with the Zipline Tour in Big Bear, a 3-hour adventure packed with nine exhilarating ziplines and a charming suspension bridge.

Whether you’re craving a rush of adrenaline or just want an unusual way to enjoy the forest, this experience offers a compelling mix of thrills and scenic beauty.

Our review is based on extensive feedback from travelers who’ve experienced it firsthand. Two aspects stand out: the professionalism of the guides and the spectacular views. The guides are known for their safety-first approach and friendly demeanor, which helps even the nervous feel more at ease.

Plus, you’ll love the variety of zipline lengths — from 140 to 860 feet — and the speeds reaching up to 45 mph, making it a genuine adrenaline hit.

A possible consideration? The group size can sometimes be large, with up to 18 people, meaning you might spend some time waiting around between ziplines, especially on hot days. This tour is best suited for those with a sense of adventure and no walking disabilities, given the uneven surfaces involved.

If you’re after a memorable outdoor activity with family or friends and enjoy a good dose of high-altitude fun, this zipline tour could be just what you’re looking for.

This experience made our article of We Rank The 15 Best Tours & Things To Do In Big Bear.

Key Points

• Professional Guides: Highly praised for their safety knowledge and friendly attitude.
• Spectacular Views: Birds-eye vistas of Johnson Valley make the experience visually rewarding.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for ages 8 and up, with some restrictions on weight and height.
• Valuable Experience: Multiple reviewers felt this was well worth the price for the adventure and safety.
• Timing Flexibility: Morning and afternoon tours help fit this into most schedules.
• Additional Cost for Photos: Souvenir photos and videos are available but at extra expense.
• Weather Dependency: Operates in all weather but may cancel due to extreme conditions.
• Group Size and Wait Times: Can be a factor; some travelers mention waiting during busy times.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: Action Zipline Tours

Your adventure begins at the central departure point in Big Bear Lake. After checking in 20 minutes before your scheduled time and watching a brief safety video, you’ll hop into a luxury van for a scenic 20-minute drive outside town. This ride sets the tone — you’ll be surrounded by mountain forests, getting you ready for the excitement ahead.

The Forest Trek in a Pinzgauer

Next, you’ll board a Pinzgauer, a sturdy four-wheeled safari vehicle, for a 2-mile journey into the heart of the forest. This off-road ride isn’t just transportation; it’s part of the adventure, offering a taste of the rugged wilderness as you ascend toward the zipline launch area. Many reviews mention the knowledgeable driver and the scenic drive as a highlight.

The Zipline Experience

Once at the launch deck, the real fun begins. Your guides will help you gear up with harnesses, helmets, and gloves, ensuring you’re comfortable and secure. The nine ziplines vary in length from 140 to 860 feet, and the maximum speed can reach up to 45 mph — a thrilling ride for adrenaline junkies and casual explorers alike.

The ziplines are set amid towering trees, giving you a birds-eye view of the forest canopy. As you glide along, you’ll likely feel a mix of excitement and awe, especially on the longer, faster lines. Several travelers describe the experience as a “pure adrenaline rush” and “scary good fun,” highlighting the combination of thrill and scenic beauty.

Suspension Bridge and Additional Highlights

Part of the tour includes a walk across a beautiful suspension bridge, perfect for photo ops or just taking in the forest’s tranquility. The guides enrich the experience by sharing historical and environmental insights, making it more than just a ride — it’s an educational escape into nature.

Safety and Comfort

Safety is clearly a priority, with guides demonstrating proper use of equipment and monitoring the group at all times. Many reviews mention how guides like Cole, Cory, and Don go above and beyond to make everyone feel confident, especially first-timers or those a bit nervous. The tour provides all necessary equipment, and lockers are available to store personal belongings securely.

Transportation and Pick-up

The round-trip transportation from the meeting point in Big Bear is smooth and comfortable. This convenience means you don’t have to worry about logistics, just focus on enjoying the ride.

What to Expect During the Tour

Duration and Group Size

The entire experience lasts approximately 3 hours, including check-in, transportation, safety briefing, and the zipline runs. The group size is limited to 9 travelers, which helps ensure personalized attention and safety. Some reviews note that groups can be larger, up to 18, which may lead to some waiting times, especially in peak season.

Weather and Cancellations

The tour operates rain or shine but can be canceled in cases of extreme weather. Travelers appreciate the flexibility — if canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Proper clothing, including layers and rain gear if needed, is recommended since weather can change quickly in mountain areas.

Accessibility and Restrictions

Participants must weigh between 65 and 250 pounds, be at least 8 years old, and be able to use both hands and feet with at least one eye of vision. The tour is not recommended for children under 7 or those with walking disabilities due to uneven surfaces.

Additional Costs

While the tour price is around $178 per person, extras like souvenir photos or GoPro videos are available at additional cost. Several travelers mention that booking directly with the operator can be more economical than third-party sites.

Authentic Experiences from Travelers

Many reviews highlight the guides’ professionalism and friendliness. Margaret_B raves about the guides helping every step, describing the experience as a “pure adrenaline rush” that kept her smiling throughout. Others, like Douglas_S, appreciate how the guides made safety their top priority, mentioning that even a 75-year-old enjoyed the ride.

Some travelers note that the tour is well organized, with everything running smoothly and on time — an important factor for those on tight schedules. The scenic drive in the Pinzgauer is repeatedly mentioned as a favorite part of the journey, providing a perfect prelude to the excitement.

A few reviews express concerns about overcrowding, especially during busy times, leading to waiting around. Also, the photos and videos, while lovely, come at a steep additional fee, which some feel is overpriced.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

This zipline tour offers a balanced blend of adventure, safety, and scenic beauty. It’s ideal for families, couples, or groups of friends looking to add a memorable outdoor activity to their Big Bear visit. The guides’ professionalism and the stunning forest views create a sense of security and awe, making it accessible for many age groups — from 8-year-olds to grandparents.

However, if you’re sensitive to long waits or prefer a more intimate experience, booking during off-peak hours or in small groups may improve your day. The cost is reasonable considering the length of the tour, the quality of equipment, and the professional guidance.

Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or just seeking a fun way to experience Big Bear’s natural beauty, this zipline adventure ticks many boxes. It’s a passport to adventure that combines scenic views with high-speed fun, all delivered by a team that clearly cares about safety and customer satisfaction.

The Sum Up

The Big Bear zipline tour provides a thrilling, scenic, and professionally guided experience perfect for anyone craving outdoor excitement. The nine ziplines, combined with the forest drive and suspension bridge, make for a well-rounded adventure that appeals to a wide range of travelers. The guides earn high praise for their safety awareness and friendly approach, helping everyone feel confident and included.

While the experience can involve some waiting during busy times, the overall value, especially considering the length and variety of the activity, is solid. The views are stunning, the adrenaline is real, and the memories are guaranteed. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy Big Bear’s wilderness from a whole new perspective.

This tour suits active families, adventure seekers, and anyone looking to add a touch of thrill to their mountain escape. If you’re comfortable with the basic physical requirements and want a safe, fun, and scenic adventure, this zipline tour will not disappoint.

FAQ

Is there a minimum age for this zipline tour?
Yes, participants must be at least 8 years old to join.

What’s the maximum weight allowed?
The maximum weight is 250 pounds.

How long does the entire tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 3 hours, including check-in, transportation, and the zipline runs.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, this tour is usually booked about 15 days ahead, and booking early is recommended, especially in peak season.

What should I wear?
Dress in layers suitable for mountain weather. Since the tour operates in all weather conditions, bring rain gear if needed.

Are there any accessibility concerns?
The tour is not recommended for those with walking disabilities due to uneven terrain, and participants need use of both hands and feet.

Can I bring my own photos or videos?
You can rent a GoPro or purchase souvenir photos, but both are extra costs. The SD card from the rental can be taken home.

What if the weather is bad on my scheduled day?
The tour operates in most weather conditions but can be canceled in extreme weather, with options for rescheduling or refunds.

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from the Big Bear meeting point is provided in a comfortable vehicle.

In essence, this zipline tour offers a well-organized, scenic, and exhilarating way to experience Big Bear’s natural beauty from above. If you’re after a memorable outdoor adventure that combines safety, views, and high-speed fun, this experience might just be your perfect mountain escapade.