Go Ape is a chain of outdoor adventure parks with zip lines, rope courses, and climbing obstacles

Go Ape operates adventure parks across the United States where you move through the trees on zip lines, suspended bridges, and climbing challenges. The parks are designed so you stay connected to a safety line the entire time you're on the course. Each location has multiple difficulty levels, so beginners and experienced climbers can both find something suited to them. You don't need prior experience — the staff trains you on safety equipment and techniques before you start.

The company runs about 30 locations in the U.S., mostly in state and regional parks. Each park has its own layout and mix of obstacles, so what you encounter at one location may differ from another. Most parks operate seasonally or year-round depending on climate, and hours change by season.

Key Takeaways

  • Go Ape courses include zip lines, rope bridges, Tarzan swings, and climbing walls, with multiple difficulty levels at most locations.
  • You wear a harness connected to a safety cable that runs along the entire course, and staff provide a safety briefing before you start.
  • Prices vary by location and course difficulty, typically ranging from around $30 to $70 per person for a single course.
  • Most locations require you to book in advance online or by phone, and courses usually take 2 to 3 hours to complete.
  • Height and weight restrictions exist for safety reasons and vary by course, so check your specific location's requirements before booking.

What you encounter on a Go Ape course

A typical Go Ape park has multiple courses arranged by difficulty level. Beginner courses focus on shorter zip lines, lower platforms, and simpler obstacles like rope walks and log steps. Intermediate courses add longer zip lines, higher platforms, and more complex challenges like Tarzan swings (where you swing from a rope across a gap) and angled climbing walls. Advanced courses push height, speed, and technical difficulty further.

Most parks also have a separate zip line course that focuses entirely on zip lining, often with longer lines and higher speeds than the main obstacle courses. Some locations offer a junior course designed for younger children with lower heights and shorter distances.

Every obstacle is built into the trees or on sturdy wooden platforms. You move from one obstacle to the next while clipped into a continuous safety cable. The cable runs along the entire course, so you're never unattached — even when you're moving between obstacles or waiting for the person ahead of you to finish.

How safety equipment and training work

When you arrive, staff fit you with a harness that wraps around your waist and thighs. The harness connects to a carabiner (a metal clip), which clips onto the safety cable. You also receive gloves to protect your hands when you're gripping ropes or sliding down zip lines. Some parks provide helmets; others recommend you bring your own or rent one on-site.

Before you start the course, a staff member walks you through the safety briefing. They show you how to clip and unclip your carabiner, how to control your speed on zip lines using the friction of your gloves, and how to move safely between obstacles. The briefing usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. You'll practice on a short training section before moving to the main course.

The safety cable itself is engineered so that even if you fall, the cable catches you — you won't drop to the ground. Staff are positioned at key points on the course to watch for problems and help if needed.

Height, weight, and age requirements

Go Ape sets minimum and maximum height and weight limits for each course to may support the harness fits properly and the equipment functions safely. Minimum heights typically range from 4 feet 6 inches to 5 feet depending on the course, and maximum weights usually fall between 250 and 300 pounds. Some courses have lower minimums for junior participants.

Age requirements also vary by course. Many beginner courses allow children as young as 7 or 8 with an adult, while intermediate and advanced courses may require participants to be 10 or older and sometimes to be accompanied by an adult. Check your specific location's website for exact requirements, as they differ from park to park.

If you're close to a height or weight limit, contact the location directly before booking. Staff can sometimes make accommodations or recommend a different course that may work better for you.

How to book and what to expect on the day

You book Go Ape courses online through the company's website or by calling the specific location. You choose your date, time, and course difficulty level. Most locations require you to book at least a day or two in advance, though some accept same-day bookings if space is available. Prices vary by location and course, but typically range from around $30 to $70 per person for a single course.

Arrive 15 to 20 minutes before your scheduled time. You'll check in, sign a waiver, and get fitted for your harness and safety gear. The safety briefing and training section take another 15 to 30 minutes. The actual course time is usually 2 to 3 hours depending on difficulty level and how many people are in your group.

Wear comfortable clothes you can move in — avoid loose, baggy clothing that might catch on obstacles. Closed-toe athletic shoes with good grip are essential. Leave valuables in your car or a locker; most parks don't have find storage for phones or wallets while you're on the course.

Weather and seasonal closures

Go Ape courses operate in most weather, but heavy rain, lightning, or high winds can cause closures for safety reasons. If weather forces a closure, you can reschedule your booking to another date at no extra charge. Check the location's website or call ahead if conditions look questionable on your scheduled day.

Many locations close during winter months or operate on reduced schedules. Some parks in warmer climates stay open year-round. Hours also shift seasonally — summer typically has extended hours and more course availability, while fall and spring may have limited time slots. Check your specific location's calendar before booking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be in good physical shape to do Go Ape?

You don't need to be an athlete, but the courses do require climbing, balancing, and moving through the trees for 2 to 3 hours. Beginner courses are designed for people with no experience. If you have concerns about your fitness level or mobility, start with a beginner course or contact the location to discuss which course might work for you.

What happens if I'm afraid of heights?

Many people with a fear of heights do Go Ape successfully because you're clipped to a safety cable the entire time. Start with a beginner course at a lower height, and go at your own pace — there's no time limit. Staff are trained to help nervous participants, and you can take breaks whenever you need to.

Can I bring my own camera or phone on the course?

Most parks don't allow loose phones or cameras on the course because they can fall and hit people below. Some locations offer a GoPro rental or have staff photographers who capture photos you can purchase. Check with your specific location about their camera policy.

Is there a refund or reschedule option if I can't make my booking?

Refund and cancellation policies vary by location. Most allow you to reschedule to another date within a certain window (often 48 hours notice) at no charge. Cancellations closer to your booking time may forfeit the fee. Check the terms when you book or contact the location directly.

Can adults do Go Ape without children, or is it only for families?

Go Ape welcomes adults of all ages. Many people book courses with friends or coworkers. There's no requirement to bring children, and adult-only groups are common at most locations.