Visitors and locals alike will be lining up to take both a deep breath and leap off a six storey tower, sending them soaring across the downtown cityscape. A free 170 metre (550 foot) long zip line has been suspended high over Robson Square by Ziptrek Ecotours and is sure to be a thrill during the 2010 Winter Olympic Games.
What is a Zip Line?
A zip line is essentially a steel cable suspended in the air on an incline that participants slide down using a tether, pulley and harness. Gravity propels users down the cable and speeds can reach up to 80 kilometres per hour. It’s the adult version of a flying fox found on children's playgrounds.
Conquer your Fears
For those afraid of heights, zip lines offer a chance to challenge their fears in a safe environment. Instead of the wild, frenzied sensation of a free fall, like with bungee jumping or skydiving, zip lines offer a controlled but thrilling descent. There is no need to even jump. Participants merely step down a series of stairs until the tether is taut, lift their feet and are whisked off the platform. Any fear dissolves and is replaced with an exhilarating rush.
Ride the Zip Line for Free!
The Robson Square zip line is available for free during the two week period of the Olympic Games, February 12th to 28th, from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm. The tower is located next to the Vancouver Art Gallery on Robson Street, between Hornby and Howe Streets.
Free Entertainment at Robson Square
Other free entertainment at Robson Square includes shows by BC musicians, children’s performers, Aboriginal carvers and dance groups, street performers, and a light and pyrotechnic display nightly. Meet the Olympic Mascots on ice and take advantage of the free skating at GE Plaza during the run of the Games. For more information and show times, visit the Robson Square Signature Celebration Site website.
Zip Lining in Whistler
For those that want more high flying adventure head to Whistler, BC. Ziptrek Ecotours, the company that brought the zip line to Robosn Square also offers a wide variety of sustainable and ecological adventure tours. Guests can enjoy hiking in BC’s old growth temperate rainforests, treetop observation platforms linked by suspended bridges and stair cases, and of course, zip lines. The most impressive zip line drops 20 storeys and spans 2000 feet taking guests all the way back to the Whistler Village.
Paris Patheiger - Paris Patheiger is a freelance writer and photographer based out of Vancouver, British Columbia. Paris has a diverse and unique resume. ...
