Adventure Collective Journal

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Idaho Springs Cliffside Zipline: Six-Line Colorado Rockies Adventure Over Chicago Creek

Idaho Springs Cliffside Zipline: Six-Line Colorado Rockies Adventure Over Chicago Creek

Clip in at AVA’s outpost and ride a truck to the cliff: six ziplines, suspended bridges, and a dual race line carve through the Colorado Rockies above Chicago Creek. This half‑day outing pairs raw exposure with clear practicalities—gear provided, moderate fitness required, 250 lb weight limit.

Idaho Springs, Colorado
2–3 hours
By Adventure CollectiveOctober 2025

The Experience

Before You Go

Arrive 20–30 minutes early

Sign-in and harnessing take time; arriving early ensures you won’t miss the truck ride to the top.

Watch the weather and book morning slots

Afternoon storms form quickly at elevation—choose a morning start for clearer skies and safer flying.

Respect the 250 lb weight limit

For safety and proper braking, guests must meet the maximum weight requirement; operators will weigh participants.

Wear closed-toe shoes and layers

Trails and platforms are rocky and can be cold; sturdy footwear and layered clothing keep you comfortable.

Local Knowledge

Hidden Gems

  • Argo Gold Mill and Tunnel — short history stop with mill ruins and river views
  • Mount Evans Scenic Byway pullouts — quick overlooks for Divide vistas and roadside marmots

Wildlife

  • Mule deer
  • Red-tailed hawk

Conservation Note

Stick to established trails and platforms; pack out trash and avoid drones to protect nesting raptors and preserve the cliffside habitat.

Idaho Springs grew from the 1859 Colorado Gold Rush; remnants of mining infrastructure and old mills remain visible around the canyon.

Photographer's Notes

Best times:Golden hour (sunrise or sunset), Morning (before afternoon storms), Overcast days for even light
Key viewpoints:
  • Top platform with Continental Divide backdrop
  • Dual race line for dynamic action shots
  • Line 6 platform over Chicago Creek for creek-and-cliff compositions
Subjects to capture:Action shots of riders on the zipline, Cliffside panoramas and the Continental Divide, Chicago Creek and forested canyon accents

What to Bring

Closed-toe hiking shoesEssential

Grip and ankle support for rocky platforms, bridges, and short approaches.

Light insulating layerEssential

Mountain temperatures change fast—an extra fleece or windshirt helps on exposed platforms.

Sunscreen and sunglassesEssential

High-elevation sun is intense; protect skin and eyes during exposed zips.

Small daypack or secure phone lanyard

Keeps water, ID, and small camera secure between lines and during the truck ride.

Common Questions

Is there a weight limit?

Yes — the maximum weight is 250 lbs; operators will ask for weight during booking or check-in for safety.

How long does the zipline experience take?

Expect about 2–3 hours from check-in to finish, including the truck ride to the top and safety briefings.

Do I need prior zipline experience?

No prior experience required; guides provide instruction and all safety equipment (harness, helmet, tethers).

What should I wear?

Closed-toe shoes, comfortable pants or shorts, and layers for changing weather; avoid loose items that could snag.

Can children participate?

Age and height requirements vary by operator; check with AVA directly — the booking process will verify eligibility.

What is the cancellation policy?

Full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled time; check the vendor’s policy for details.

Book This Experience

Check Availability

Duration

2–3 hours

Location

Idaho Springs, Colorado

Difficulty

moderate

Fitness Level

Good for travelers with moderate fitness — you should be able to climb stairs and walk uneven trail sections comfortably.

Free cancellation available

Ready to Explore Idaho Springs?

Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.

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