(Article) Ziplining Across the Mojave: A Boulder City Attraction Melds, Wildlife, Incredible Scenery, with Adrenaline-Fueled Thrills

Ziplining Across the Mojave: A Boulder City Attraction Melds, Wildlife, Incredible Scenery, with Adrenaline-Fueled Thrills

The zip-wire has been used for many years in mountainous regions as a way to transport oneself or cargo across deep river canyons. One of the earliest mentions of its usage for fun rather than mere utility comes from H.G. Well’s The Invisible Man where he described an “inclined strong rope” favored by thrill-seeking adolescents. Today, millions of people word-wide seek out zip line excursions as a unique outdoor adventure activity. Adrenaline junkies as well as nature enthusiasts have come to appreciate the activity as way to experience the outdoors from an aerial point-of-view at high speed over long distances. Flightlinez zip line tours, operating out of Boulder City, Nevada since 2008 offers visitors a chance to experience the Red Mountain area in a way that is unlike any other.

We call it a “no-trace trail system” said Flightlinez general manager Brina Marcus describing the aerial trail. It consists of four separate zip lines that carry adventure seekers over a mile and a half at speeds that reach up to sixty miles-per-hour. “You get to view the Mojave Desert from above without leaving footprints.”

Flightlinez operates every day of the year with the exception of New Year’s Day. Many of the over 15,000 adventure-seekers that book each year are members of the “frequent flier” program. They return time and again and earn special discounted rates. “The more times you visit the cheaper it gets. You can even earn free flights,” mentioned Marcus.

Many guests come to Boulder City to tour with Flightlinez from as far away as Europe and Australia. “We even have one couple from the UK that have been out 13 times in the eight years since we’ve been operating!” said Marcus referring to the popularity of this activity among their international guests. “They are really seeking outdoor adventure and looking to get off “The Strip” for a while.” Speaking of getting of “The Strip,” they even offer a convenient pick-up service from Las Vegas Boulevard one hour before your scheduled tour making the activity that much more pleasurable for out-of-town visitors.

You may wonder about the heat during the summer months. Flightlinez adjusts their tours to cooler hours, has constructed shaded structures on their launch and landing platforms and provides plenty of ice-cold water for their guest to make sure you’re comfortable and safely hydrated.

Nature lovers will not be disappointed while visiting Bootleg Canyon Park. There is the great variety of wildlife that calls this section of the Mojave Desert home. Your view from the “aerial trail” is just like that of the Red-Tailed Hawks soaring above. You might see a Desert Tortoise, Gila Monster, or view a distant coyote while taking the short 15 minute hike to the first launching platform once you arrive.

Depending on the season or time of day, visitors can even view one the desert’s most remarkable creatures; the Desert Bighorn Sheep. With about 40,000 animals inhabiting the Red Mountain area your chances are pretty good. They travel from the rocky highlands each day to nearby Henway Park where they have become quite the tourist attraction themselves.

Beyond the standard flight option, you can book a Sunset or Full Moon Tour offered between April and October each year. Imagine a flight at dusk where your flight is performed in the disappearing light across the Nevada Desert. Arrange for your visit around the full moon and you can actually fly through the night silhouetted against the moon that seems to fill the entire sky.

There are just a few physical limitations you should be aware of before booking your flight. The allowable weight range is from 75-250 lbs. with no age restrictions. “In fact, our youngest flyer is only seven and our oldest 92.” Be prepared for a short 15 minute hike to the first platform with a 600’ elevation gain along a switch-backed trail. Otherwise, all you’ll need is proper footwear that fully covers your feet and it is highly recommended that you bring a pair of sunglasses or goggles. “At 45-60 miles-per-hour it’s kind of like riding a motorcycle. After all, you want to enjoy the view.”

Flightlinez honors military fliers by offering a considerable discount. “Locals” that do not require transportation from the Strip can save as well by meeting up at the Boulder City location. Who is a local you might ask? With many visitors from Arizona and California Marcus explained, “Show up in a car, get a discount.”

          Laura-Jo, a “frequent flier” from Virginia, spoke to atmosphere that surrounds the activity that has brought her back to Bootleg Canyon half-a-dozen times. “Besides the “Rush”, it’s a social experience for me.  I love going with friends, along with meeting new friends along the way.  The guides are all professional, well-trained, trust-worthy, fun and friendly.  Several have become great friends over the years.” Make your reservation online at www.flightlinezbootleg.com or simply call (702) 293-6885 for more information.