Adventure Collective Journal

Adventure Collective Journal

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Riding the Sky Over Seven Falls: Colorado Springs’ Combo Course Zipline

Riding the Sky Over Seven Falls: Colorado Springs’ Combo Course Zipline

Eight ziplines, two suspension bridges, and a 180-foot rappel in Colorado’s most scenic canyon

Colorado Springs, Colorado
By Eric Crews
aerial adventures, land adventures, wildlife natureSeptemberfall

The canyon goes quiet the moment you step to the edge. Ponderosa pines lean in like curious onlookers, and the granite walls of South Cheyenne Canyon hold their breath. A cool updraft lifts the hair on your arms. The guide nods, the trolley hums, and suddenly the canyon lets you go—air rushing, creek flashing below, the line singing its thin silver note. You’ve just launched onto the Combo Course Zipline, a high-wire thread stitched across Colorado Springs’ most dramatic pocket of stone and sky.

Trail Wisdom

Mind the Weight Range

All guests must weigh between 90 and 250 pounds, fully clothed—no exceptions. Weigh-in policies keep speeds and braking systems within safe operating limits.

Wear Proper Footwear

Closed-toe shoes with real tread are crucial for platforms, bridges, and the rappel. Avoid sandals or open-backed shoes.

Secure Your Tech

Use a phone leash or leave valuables behind; dropping a device into the canyon is irreversible and dangerous to people below.

Arrive Early for Gear-Up

Plan to check in 30 minutes early to allow time for harness fitting, helmet sizing, and the shuttle into the canyon.

Local Knowledge

Hidden Gems

  • Mount Cutler Trail overlook for a canyon-wide preview
  • Starsmore Visitor & Nature Center’s riparian loop at the mouth of the canyon

Wildlife

Peregrine falcon, Mule deer

Conservation Note

Watch for seasonal raptor closures and stay on designated platforms and paths to protect nesting sites and fragile cliff ecology.

Seven Falls has drawn visitors since the late 1800s, its seven-tiered cascade dropping 181 feet through South Cheyenne Canyon’s Pikes Peak granite.

Seasonal Guide

spring

Best for: Cool temps, Wildflower spotting

Challenges: Unpredictable wind, Occasional late snow or ice

Spring brings cool, crisp air and growing waterflow over the falls; dress in layers and expect variable weather.

summer

Best for: Long daylight, Family travel

Challenges: Afternoon thunderstorms, High UV exposure

Summer offers prime visibility and warm starts; schedule early or late tours to avoid heat and potential lightning holds.

fall

Best for: Stable weather, Gold aspens

Challenges: Cool mornings, Shorter days

Autumn is the sweet spot—clear air, color in the canyon, and generally reliable conditions with a light layer.

winter

Best for: Thin crowds, Crisp visibility

Challenges: Cold platforms, Possible weather closures

Winter can be stunning and quiet; bundle up, and check for weather-related cancellations.

Photographer's Notes

Pack a wide-angle lens or use your phone’s ultra-wide for platform shots that include cliffs and creek. Shoot early or late for softer light on granite; harsh midday sun bounces off the rock. Use a wrist strap to secure your camera, pre-set burst mode before launching, and ask a guide to frame a shot from the landing platform as you approach.

What to Bring

Closed-Toe Hiking ShoesEssential

Grippy soles help on platforms, bridges, and the rappel approach.

Lightweight Windbreaker

Canyon breezes can chill quickly at height; a packable layer keeps you comfortable.

Sunglasses with Retainer Strap

High-elevation sun is intense and a strap prevents drops mid-zip.

Gloves or Liner Gloves

Thin gloves keep hands warm on cold trolleys and platform railings without sacrificing dexterity.

Common Questions

How long does the Combo Course take?

Plan for 3–4 hours including check-in, gear-up, the shuttle to platforms, and the full sequence of ziplines, bridges, and rappel.

What are the weight restrictions?

For safety, all participants must weigh between 90 and 250 pounds, fully clothed. This is strictly enforced.

Is there an age minimum?

Age requirements are not provided in the available details. Confirm minimum age and any guardian policies at booking.

What should I wear?

Closed-toe shoes, comfortable athletic clothing, and weather-appropriate layers. Avoid dangling jewelry and tie back long hair.

Can I bring a camera or phone?

Yes, but secure it with a lanyard or leave it with staff. Loose items can be dangerous if dropped.

What happens in bad weather?

Tours may pause or reschedule for lightning, high winds, or unsafe conditions. Guides monitor forecasts and make safety calls in real time.

What to Pack

Closed-toe hiking shoes for secure footing; sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen) for high-elevation UV; a phone/camera tether to prevent drops; a light layer to handle breezy platforms and shifting canyon temps.

Did You Know

Seven Falls’ namesake cascade drops a total of 181 feet in seven distinct tiers within South Cheyenne Canyon.

Quick Travel Tips

Book early—prime slots sell out in peak months; arrive 30 minutes ahead to gear up and catch the shuttle; hydrate beforehand and use the restroom at check-in; check the forecast for afternoon storms and consider morning tours in summer.

Local Flavor

Celebrate the flight with craft beer and a pretzel at Ivywild School’s Bristol Brewing Company, or go classic at The Broadmoor’s lively Golden Bee for pub fare and a sing-along piano. For a sweet cooldown, grab a scoop at Josh & John’s downtown—local since 1986.

Logistics Snapshot

Closest airport: Colorado Springs Airport (COS). Meeting point/trailhead: Seven Falls area near The Broadmoor. Drive time: ~10–15 minutes from downtown Colorado Springs. Cell service: Spotty inside the canyon—download confirmations ahead. Permits: Park access is included with your tour; arrive early for gear-up and the shuttle.

Sustainability Note

This canyon supports nesting raptors and sensitive cliff ecology—stick to platforms, pack out everything, and keep voices moderate to minimize disturbance.

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