It’s been a little over two years since I’ve been zip lining. The first initial time I went I completed a Junior Course because I’m afraid of heights and that was my goal. I set another goal to complete an adult course the next time I went zip lining. Welp, that time was NOW! I was invited to experience an outdoor adventure with my family & friends at TreeRunner Raleigh Adventure Park. We had four additional friends join our group and there were TEN of us.
I opted to schedule our reservation at 6:00pm because I knew the sun would be setting soon and it would get cooler as the evening went on. I’m not very good in the sun with high temperatures. I get dizzy and have passed out in the past. Speaking of intense heat, there are water coolers throughout the park that you can access between your obstacle and ropes courses. You’ll want to stay hydrated throughout your climbs.
There are 70 obstacles, ropes courses and zip lines. They are broken down into three difficulty levels, and seven different courses. There is also a Junior Park for children ages 4 to 7 to enjoy. The course we did was the Aerial Forest Ticket. We had an initial safety briefing to show us how to put on our harness and climbing gear. We then practiced on how to use our equipment before starting our first “REAL†obstacle course.
We had to complete a beginner course before graduating to the next “intermediate†level. Everything starts at the main deck no matter what course or difficulty level you are doing. Oh, you climb up to the main deck on an outdoor climbing heavy-duty cargo net. The beginner course has three obstacles to choose from. The Pink, Yellow or Green course. Most obstacles are between 10-20 ft. off the ground. We split between the green and yellow courses.
Once we all completed a beginner course some decided to do another beginner course while others decided to do an intermediate course. I was a brave one and chose to follow my son and nephew doing the “Purple†intermediate course which I would almost regret at the end. You have nine obstacles including the hallway, flea jump and swinging staircase ending in a 40 ft. auto rappel jump. I got to the end and froze for 30 minutes because I didn’t expect that!
Did I mention that I’m terrified of heights but, pushing myself through experiences like these to help me through it little by little? In the end I asked to be pushed from the platform because that’s the only way I was going to get down. It wasn’t happening on my own. I froze, got dizzy, my hands went numb, I got queasy! The FEAR took over and I was stuck! Once I left the platform it wasn’t so bad. I did scream and close my eyes most of the time.
There are two expert courses that I wasn’t brave enough to try but, baby steps! So, here are some tips for when visiting TreeRunner Adventure Park. Arrive a few minutes early so that everyone can fill out their waivers if you haven’t done so prior to your visit. This also allows for your party to arrive at the same time. You can’t start your climb until your entire party is present. Late arrivals will be subject to a shorter climb.
What to Wear: I wore yoga pants and a sports tank top with hiking sneakers. It was comfortable but, I had an issue with storing my belongings. I’d advise wearing something with pockets. I gave my phone and car keys to my son and nephew who were both wearing cargo shorts with multiple pockets. Athletic, Closed-toed shoes are required! Finger-less climbing gloves are provided to protect your hands on the courses. Overall, dress appropriately for the weather conditions.
The park is open rain or shine and will only close due to severe weather conditions. No refunds are provided. You receive climbing credits towards your next adventure instead. Everyone had a great time! We got an evening workout and I feel accomplished. I surprised myself getting more comfortable with zip lining and completed at least five zips. Experience TreeRunner Raleigh Adventure Park and book your visit TODAY!