Sky Valley Zip Tours
Sky Valley Zip Tours
5
Monday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Full view
About
Embark on an unmatched zip line adventure in western NC with us. Our Canopy Tour begins with an ATV ride, leading to 10 thrilling zip lines, a 45' vertical descent off a rock face, and a 120' cable bridge over a captivating 35' waterfall. Traverse the valley from a 300' height. Participation requires ages 10+, weighing 70-250 lbs. For young adventurers, the Whistle Pig Adventure Park offers a kids' zip line akin to our Canopy Tour, featuring 7 zips, a charming bridge, and a 20' slide amid trees. Kids enjoy 2 hours of zipping, while adults can oversee and capture moments. A covered picnic shelter and water are provided. Kids should be 4+ years old, 48" tall minimum. Experience the enchanting Night Flight on weekends, covering the Canopy Tour's first half under moonlight, ending with a thrilling cliff jump. Explore the thrill of our Mountain Cat Off Road Adventures too. Our electric 4-wheel-drive vehicles conquer inclines and rocky paths, ensuring an exciting ride for all skill levels.
Blowing Rock, North Carolina
Awards
Travelers' Choice
2024
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Sky Valley Zip Tours
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
5.0
1,062 reviews
Excellent
1,023
Very good
31
Average
4
Poor
4
Terrible
0
Pete Peterson
2 contributions
Jun 2020 • Family
John-Luke, Grace, Lauren, and Daniel headed our trip and it was overall very epic. All of them were very knowledgeable and safety driven. John-Luke did most of the talking, while the other three held down the fort. Grace operated from behind the group and was an expert at hooking and unhooking the clips onto the line. Daniel when I asked him about his opinion on the Industrial Revolution, said he had none. Based. Lauren put up a latter at one of the platforms like a pro, and she could def amos @ppeterson272. John-Luke has no shortage of epic facts and stories along with making sure nobody died. Also he is a great photographer. Overall great course with good views and very friendly staff.
Written June 13, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
tpacci
1 contribution
Jul 2020
This was an incredible experience. Rebekah and Chesney were our guides and they were safety conscious, very detailed, and entertaining. They explained the procedures as well as the scenery and showed us various ways to zip depending on our size and weight to make sure we made it to the end of each line without landing too hard. The scenery was amazing. The picture package was well-worth the money as we had over 100 pictures to download and share.I highly recommend Sky Valley for your zip lining experience.
Written July 14, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
JGaither
South Venice, FL6 contributions
Jul 2020 • Family
My two daughters (8) and (6) had a BLAST! Their instructor Sydney was so awesome and caring. She made sure they were confident and ready to tackle the course. My youngest was very scared of heights and she walked her through each step and ensured she left the platform and after that she fell in love with it.
My daughters had such a good time and the building was very clean and tidy.
The other staff at the main check-in was very nice as well and super kid friendly.
The kids course was close to 10 to 15 feet high but also low ones too. The course was super safe and there was no way for the kids to become unsafe which was a huge plus.
My daughters had such a good time and the building was very clean and tidy.
The other staff at the main check-in was very nice as well and super kid friendly.
The kids course was close to 10 to 15 feet high but also low ones too. The course was super safe and there was no way for the kids to become unsafe which was a huge plus.
Written July 7, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
David B
4 contributions
Aug 2022
The main problem with Sky Valley is that customers are not advised in advance that they might be kicked off of the course at any time, if an instructor is unhappy with their skill. Yes, it's for the customer's own good, as they sternly say as you're being kicked off -- but there was no warning in advance before paying $100, and there is a motorized vehicle waiting at the bottom of the tree to take you away and back to the shop where you'll be bored waiting several hours for the others in your group to finish. This happened to us. We didn't even know where she'd gone but assumed she'd just decided it was too scary and hence had left the second tree platform. A partial refund was provided, but only after demanding it.
Also, the instructors are a strange combination of friendly and unfriendly. The introductory lesson and instructions are presented as if it's some kind of fast-paced comedy show with no particular emphasis on the parts that are key safety rules. They're presented as if it's a joke and just perfunctory information that's necessary before climbing onto a platform. You will be scolded if you put your gloved hand in front of the slide when slowing down at the finish of the zip line. After I mistakenly did that once, and then was warned about it midway the course, I didn't enjoy the rest of the course because I was afraid the rather friendly but unfriendly (at the same time) guide would smile at me and sweetly say that I was now kicked off the course, were I to make the mistake again. ("I'm not comfortable with your abilities, so you must now leave the course.")
Also, there are too many breaks so that the guides can take photos, which are used as a moneymaker (a copy of the photos) at the end of the course. This means the course takes longer than it should (about 3 hours). It would have been more assuring and efficient for the guides to pay full attention to the participants coming down the zip line rather than trying to get a photo first, then jumping back to a position to stop the participant if he or she was going too fast.
Also, the form for release from liability (which comes by email) is way too broad. You're waiving their being liable for damages for accidents even if they are caused by the "GROSS NEGLIGENCE: or "intentional acts" of the operator, under the express terms of the waiver. Gee, you're not responsible even if a guide or the maintenance crew is found by a court to have committed "gross negligence"? That's going too far, especially when paying $100. The operator can darned well buy insurance for any liability it might have for some negligent act on the part of an employee. They would not be able to get insurance for gross negligence or an intentional act because that's something the operator could and should be able to control.
Also, the instructors are a strange combination of friendly and unfriendly. The introductory lesson and instructions are presented as if it's some kind of fast-paced comedy show with no particular emphasis on the parts that are key safety rules. They're presented as if it's a joke and just perfunctory information that's necessary before climbing onto a platform. You will be scolded if you put your gloved hand in front of the slide when slowing down at the finish of the zip line. After I mistakenly did that once, and then was warned about it midway the course, I didn't enjoy the rest of the course because I was afraid the rather friendly but unfriendly (at the same time) guide would smile at me and sweetly say that I was now kicked off the course, were I to make the mistake again. ("I'm not comfortable with your abilities, so you must now leave the course.")
Also, there are too many breaks so that the guides can take photos, which are used as a moneymaker (a copy of the photos) at the end of the course. This means the course takes longer than it should (about 3 hours). It would have been more assuring and efficient for the guides to pay full attention to the participants coming down the zip line rather than trying to get a photo first, then jumping back to a position to stop the participant if he or she was going too fast.
Also, the form for release from liability (which comes by email) is way too broad. You're waiving their being liable for damages for accidents even if they are caused by the "GROSS NEGLIGENCE: or "intentional acts" of the operator, under the express terms of the waiver. Gee, you're not responsible even if a guide or the maintenance crew is found by a court to have committed "gross negligence"? That's going too far, especially when paying $100. The operator can darned well buy insurance for any liability it might have for some negligent act on the part of an employee. They would not be able to get insurance for gross negligence or an intentional act because that's something the operator could and should be able to control.
Written September 16, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Suzanne K
Cary, NC8 contributions
Jul 2020
There are some things to know before you go; the web site states that "We have reduced tour sizes to allow for more social space." However, we were a tour size of nine - my husband, my son, myself, two guides, and another four person family. We all wore masks but there was absolutely ZERO opportunity for social distancing as the platforms, especially on the 3 practice runs are TINY. We were almost touching each other.
The guides seemed distracted and provided little individualized instruction. I did not feel safe so opted out after the first 3 runs; my husband and son went on to have a good enough time. The owner kindly refunded the money for my ticket, which we appreciated. This seems to be an amazing operation - just be careful about the group size.
The guides seemed distracted and provided little individualized instruction. I did not feel safe so opted out after the first 3 runs; my husband and son went on to have a good enough time. The owner kindly refunded the money for my ticket, which we appreciated. This seems to be an amazing operation - just be careful about the group size.
Written July 2, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
TTerry2015
Hickory, NC49 contributions
Oct 2023 • Couples
My husband and I went on the Mountain Cat Adventure at Sky Valley Zip Tours. I had seen an advertisement in the Blowing Rock park a month or so ago and knew this was something that we had to do. I booked online with ease, paid by card and completed the required waiver. When we arrived, the check in process was fast and easy. We met our tour guide, Jack, in the garage to get fitted with a helmet, glasses, gloves and a vest with walkie talkie. We then moved to the field for a quick and informative introduction to the mountain cats and to make any adjustments before heading out. We started slow to allow time to get comfortable with the throttle and brakes and progressed at an appropriate pace for the group. We ran the pump track a few times to get a feel for the terrain and steering and then hit the trails with constant contact with Jack through the walkie talkies. He described the upcoming terrain and how to navigate each section. He stopped at various spots to take photos of our group and to check on everyone. The “bikes” were very sturdy with a low center of gravity, easy steering and rugged to handle the hills, ruts, mud and roots. Now that I have covered all of the important deets for review purposes, I must tell you that I laughed so hard and smiled with pure joy the whole time we rode these cats. It was so much fun, peaceful and serene but yet adventurous, wild and carefree. We will be back to do this again and I highly recommend if you like this kind of thing that you don’t hesitate to book. Fall is an absolutely beautiful time to explore this amazing property as the leaves were stunning. The weather was crisp and clear and the trails were righteous. Thank you, Jack for taking us on such a memorable journey and creating a lasting experience.
Written October 22, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for sharing your incredible Mountain Cat Adventure experience at Sky Valley Zip Tours! We're thrilled that you had such a fantastic time and found our booking process and guides top-notch. It's heartwarming to hear that you laughed, smiled, and enjoyed the adventure to the fullest. We can't wait to welcome you back for another exciting journey and appreciate your enthusiastic recommendation. Thanks for choosing Sky Valley Zip Tours, and kudos to our team for creating lasting memories!
Written October 26, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
tmcbean
Charlotte, NC6 contributions
Aug 2020
Sky Valley Zip Tours are a great way to have fun with your family and friends. We went with a family of four (two teens, two adults) and none of us had ever gone ziplining. With most of us having a fear of heights, our guides Abby and Tristan made us feel very safe and prepared before our very first zip. After the first to second line, we forgot about our fear and had a great time. This was thrilling and there were AMAZING views. There were ten lines to zip on including a 60 foot cliff jump and a swinging bridge over a beautiful waterfall! Our guides had a great sense of humor yet also did a great job making sure we were safe and felt safe the entire way through. Most importantly this was a very fun experience and we really recommend Sky Valley Zip Tours!
Written August 13, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
JMRB
1 contribution
Jul 2020
Great experience. We had Lauren and Rebecca who are two ex-army members. I’m not particularly fond of heights but they made it a fun experience. You could tell they knew what they were doing and were properly, well and extensively trained. When one of the members of our party opted out of zipping after getting up onto the platform, they were understanding, compassionate and considerate. The views from the lines were breathtaking. All around a great time and 100% worth the money.
Written July 27, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
TJ F
4 contributions
Jul 2024 • Family
The Mountain Cat Adventure tour was the best thing we’ve done this week! My wife and I are here in Boone on vacation with our son and daughter-in-law. My wife found the Mountain Cat Adventures online so we gave them a call. And we’re so glad we did! One of Sky Valley Zip Tours employees, Caleb, led us on a mountain trail tour that lastest close to 2 hours. We each rode in our own mountain cat off-road electric vehicle. It included a warm-up trail and three trails back and forth and up and down the mountain. We loved it! If you’re looking for something unique to do, similar to an ATV tour but probably more fun, all four of us would highly recommend Mountain Cat Adventures. We were lucky and were able to get 4 slots the same day but call early because it looks like they could get busy during the summer. Our guide, Caleb, was awesome! He took his time teaching us how to use them (a lot like driving a golf cart, only a lot bumpier and muddier, and he led us on the trails at whatever pace was comfortable for us. You have to leave your valuables in your car (nothing in your pockets) because whatever is in your pockets will probably be shaken out - which concerned us at first because we wanted to make sure we had some photos of this. To our surprise, Caleb and his crew took 40 photos of us during our adventure; both stopped and smiling and action photos of us on the trail. I was sent a link with all the photos for free within 30 minutes of finishing. Fantastic operation from start to finish. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
Written July 24, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Brittani E
Charlotte, NC2 contributions
Jun 2020
I highly recommend Sky alley Zip tours. They were super friendly and made it a fun experience for everyone in the group. My tour guides were TJ and Harley, they were awesome!! The rope bridge and cliff jump really set sky Valley apart from any other ziplining tour.
Written June 29, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Okay I want to plan a trip here but do y’all provide the atv experience as far as letting us drive them
Written April 30, 2021
Daniel L
Boone, North Carolina
We use the ATVs as transportation to begin the zip tours and they will be driven by one of our staff. Customers are not allowed to drive them.
Written May 24, 2021
How do they handle water? I read that they provide it but you need to have a container with you. Do you have to carry it the whole time? Do most do without?
Written July 3, 2020
Most do without. You are on the move most of the time and didn't think anything about it. Plus you are in the canopy for the most part and there is a cool breeze blowing.
Written July 3, 2020
If I remember correctly it was $85 per person. You can also purchase a photo package for $25. You can’t take your cellphone/camera on the zip for safety reasons.
I’ll also take this opportunity to say again ... they do a great job!
Written June 3, 2019
Are there restroom facilities midway through the experience?
Written October 27, 2018
I don’t think so. My tour was straight through. They do hsve a small bathroom at the place where it starts. I think that might be it.
Written October 28, 2018
Can I wear a backpack? I’m wondering what to do with my personal belongings.
Written October 26, 2018
They ask you to leave everything in the car. They will take your keys and lock them up until you get back. The guides take cameras and take all the pics so you don’t have to worry about that.
Written October 27, 2018
Probably not... however the ski slopes are open. The area where the zipline is located is almost 4000ft elevation, it does get quite cold. You should definitely call to check.
Written October 11, 2018
Did you see many older people participating, the over sixty crowd?
Written September 25, 2018
My husband is over sixty and I’m late 50’s. We had a blast - we are both pretty active- the guides are great!
Written September 26, 2018
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