Skyline Rush Over the Woods: The HighFlyer Zipline at Foxwoods
A minute of sky, a mile of views—then land at one of New England’s premier Indigenous museums.
The elevator doors slide open onto the rooftop of the Fox Tower, and the wind greets you first—cool, insistent, a messenger from the Long Island Sound. Below, southeastern Connecticut sprawls in quilted greens and granite—oak forests stitched to rocky ridges, a corridor of highway glinting toward the coast. Guides tighten the harness at your hips, clip a tether that hums with potential, and nudge you toward the edge. The cable, taut and gleaming, pulls a quiet line through space, daring you to trust it. When you step off, the world tips; gravity takes the lead; the HighFlyer Zipline at Foxwoods does the rest.
Trail Wisdom
Dress for the wind
A light windproof layer helps at 350 feet where breezes are stronger than on the ground.
Go hands-free
Secure phones and cameras with tethers or leave them stowed; loose items can be lost to the updraft.
Book early, fly early
Reserve in advance and aim for a morning slot for calmer winds and shorter wait times.
Wear closed-toe shoes
Sneakers with good laces keep feet secure during launch and landing.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Lantern Hill Trail for a quick panoramic hike with views of Foxwoods and the surrounding forest
- •The Mashantucket Pequot Museum observation tower for a glass-walled perspective on the canopy
Wildlife
Red-tailed hawk, White-tailed deer
Conservation Note
Stay on designated paths at the landing, respect tribal land and signage, and avoid dropping or discarding items from the platform or during the ride.
The ride crosses land of the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation; the museum at the landing shares centuries of Indigenous history and contemporary culture.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Fresh greenery, Cooler temps
Challenges: Gusty winds, Occasional rain
Expect vivid new leaf color and brisk rooftop breezes; weather can change quickly—bring a light shell.
summer
Best for: Long daylight, Family trips
Challenges: Heat and humidity, Busier weekends
Warm days and steady operations make for easy planning; hydrate and book ahead.
fall
Best for: Foliage views, Crisp air
Challenges: Popular time slots, Variable temperatures
Peak color and clear air create standout rides—layer up and reserve early.
winter
Best for: Crystal-clear views, Lower crowds
Challenges: Cold windchill, Weather holds
When operating, winter flights are brisk and bright; dress warmly and watch for wind or storm delays.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Closed-toe athletic shoesEssential
Secure footing is key for platform launch and landing.
Light windproof jacketEssential
Rooftop winds can be sharp even on mild days.
Sunglasses with retainer strap
Glare can be intense from the rooftop—use a strap to avoid losing them mid-ride.
Compact action camera with tether
Capture POV footage safely; confirm device policies with the operator before your flight.
Common Questions
How long is the ride and how fast do you go?
The flight lasts just over a minute and typically reaches about 45 mph, depending on wind and conditions.
What happens in bad weather?
Operations may pause for high winds, lightning, or heavy precipitation. Your time may be delayed or rescheduled for safety.
Can I bring my phone or camera?
Only with secure tethers and at the operator’s discretion—loose items are not allowed on the line.
What should I wear?
Closed-toe shoes and layered clothing. Avoid scarves, loose hats, and dangling jewelry.
Is the zipline suitable for kids or beginners?
Yes—first-timers regularly ride. Check age and weight guidelines when booking and follow guide instructions closely.
Where do we land and can we visit the museum?
You land at the Mashantucket Pequot Museum & Research Center; hours vary, so check the schedule if you plan to explore exhibits after your ride.
What to Pack
Closed-toe sneakers for secure footing; a light windproof layer for rooftop gusts; a sunglass retainer or phone tether to keep gear from flying; a government-issued ID and reservation confirmation for check-in.
Did You Know
The Mashantucket Pequot Museum & Research Center, where the zipline lands, opened in 1998 and features a 185-foot glass observation tower with sweeping regional views.
Quick Travel Tips
Book your time slot in advance, especially on weekends; arrive 20–30 minutes early for check-in and harnessing; check wind forecasts and be flexible for weather holds; plan extra time to visit the Mashantucket Pequot Museum after your ride.
Local Flavor
Refuel inside Foxwoods with elevated pub fare at Guy Fieri’s Foxwoods Kitchen + Bar or sushi at Red Lantern. If you’re heading to Mystic, grab a lobster roll at Abbott’s in the Rough (seasonal) or sit down at S&P Oyster for water views. Local breweries like Outer Light in Groton pour easygoing post-zip pints.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airports: Providence (PVD, ~45 miles) and Hartford’s Bradley (BDL, ~70 miles). Launch: Fox Tower rooftop at Foxwoods Resort Casino; landing: Mashantucket Pequot Museum. Drive: ~20 minutes from Mystic, ~1 hour from Providence. Cell service: Strong at the resort; spotty in some nearby rural pockets. Permits: No permits—advance ticketed reservation required.
Sustainability Note
This ride crosses Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation land and ends at a tribally operated museum—respect cultural spaces, pack out all trash, and keep belongings secured so nothing drops into the forest.
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