Don’t let my adventures around the globe fool you: I was once incredibly risk-averse. In fact, just the thought of gliding midair on a zip line would be enough to give me butterflies. But my philosophy of life changed a few years ago; I decided to challenge myself to face my fear of heights and prove that I’m stronger and more capable than I ever thought imaginable. Ever since I made that conscious decision, I’ve pushed far beyond my comfort zone and learned a whole lot about myself in the process. And while I’ve trekked through forest canopies, cliff jumped and journeyed in hot air balloons, I had never mustered up the courage to zip line. Until recently…
Photo credit: Sik Photography.
Yup, I decided to soar across Canada’s longest twin zip line (2550 feet long) at 70 km/hr with my photog. Go big or go home, right?!
Photo credit: Sik Photography.
The experience was terrifying, majestic and exhilarating – in that order! I thought my heart was going to jump right out of my chest as we climbed 50 feet up a spiral staircase to the Thunderbird Twin Zip Line “nest” at Scenic Caves Nature Adventures. I have no idea why, but as we flew across the Niagara escarpment side-by-side all of my fears suddenly vanished. Perhaps it was the adrenaline, my photog’s beaming face or the sheer beauty of the ancient land we were zipping over…
Photo credit: Sik Photography.
Whatever it was, I ironically felt incredibly connected to the land. The feeling only grew stronger as we trekked 55 feet above a 200-year old forest and explored one of Canada’s great natural wonders (a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve). It was such a humbling experience…
Photo credit: Sik Photography.
And then there were the caves. There is a reason this place is called Scenic Caves. Just imagine being surrounded by rocks that are millions of years old — a cross between scenes from Jurassic Park and Pan’s Labyrinth. I felt such a strong energy that I got goosebumps as soon as we stepped inside one of the magnificent caves…
Photo credit: Sik Photography.
Oh and I can’t forget the panoramic views from the suspension bridge: on a clear day you’ll see 10, 000 square kilometers of breathtaking scenery!
Photo credit: Sik Photography.
Sounds epic, right?! If you want to squeeze all the adventures we had into your next trip out to The Blue Mountains, I highly recommend snagging a spot on the Eco Adventure Tour ($85/adult) at Scenic Caves Nature Adventures. The 3-hour guided trek includes the suspension bridge, treetop canopy walk, two zip line jumps (the Thunderbird Twin Zip can be added on for $10), and a hike through the ancient caves. The staff are super friendly, knowledgeable and – most importantly – will help keep you safe as you step outside of your comfort zone and embark on a new journey. Ready to take flight?
Photo credit: Sik Photography.
The Eco Adventure Tour was complimentary for me and my photographer. As always, all reviews and opinions are entirely my own.
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