Skip to content

With video: Soaring above Mount Washington

The longest zip line on Vancouver Island officially opens its doors

The longest zip line on Vancouver Island officially opened its doors - or cables - last weekend as part of Mount Washington’s summer operations.

The four-stage ZipTour opened Jun 27, and the resort’s marketing manager Kayla Stockton says the reception so far has been very positive.

“People are so excited to get a different perspective from the top of Mount Washington - it’s so different even for those who are up in the winter.”

Nearly a year ago, the final touches were being put on the Hawk Excursion - the bottom two lines - which were operational last fall.

This year, the full tour, named the Eagle’s Flight, is fully operational and provides riders 2.3km of zip line over a number of platforms. The ride also has a total drop of 415 metres (1,364 vertical feet) and was constructed by ZipRider based in Park City, Utah.

Riders begin by taking the scenic chairlift ride to the mountain’s summit where on a clear day, Campbell River and Quadra Island can be seen to the north along with expansive views of Mount Albert Edward and Strathcona Park to the south.

The first stage, The Abyss, is 1,801 feet with a vertical drop of 302 feet and a 17 per cent grade. The second, Cascade, is the second shortest span at 1,653 feet and a 14 per cent grade. The third stage is the Holy Hawk is the shortest span at 1,643 feet, however, it is the most step with a 24 per cent grade. The final stage, Runway, is the longest at 2,372 feet and features an 18 per cent grade; it brings riders back to the roof of the lodge in the alpine village.

Stockton notes the line provides an opportunity for both local residents and travellers to try something different while being outdoors and following COVID-19 protocols. She adds the resort has received many questions on safety steps being taken and explains all riders and guides must wear masks throughout the entire zip line tour.

She notes the zip line also has unique features, such as the hand braking technology which allows riders the ability to control the speed in which they travel the line. Each span also has two cables side by side which allows users to ride the line with a friend.

“This way you can slow down and take in the view.”

The ride is open seven days a week, however, hours vary daily. Tickets for the full tour for adults are $129, youth and seniors are $119. For more information, visit www.mountwashington.ca.



photos@comoxvalleyrecord.com

Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter



Erin Haluschak

About the Author: Erin Haluschak

Erin Haluschak is a journalist with the Comox Valley Record since 2008. She is also the editor of Trio Magazine...
Read more