A new attraction has come to the Okanagan. Thrill seekers can “get high” at ZipZone Adventure Park, northwest of Summerland.
Six ziplines criss cross back and forth over Deep Creek Canyon.
Owner Kevin Bennett said they currently tout the highest zipline in North America. After ziplining in Mexico, he decided he had to build his own.
When asked if he had to jump through lots of hoops to do it, he said, “yes, but they were reasonable hoops. Safety was the main concern.”
Bennett has acquired a 10-year lease of the crown land for his park.
He said a lot of money had been spent on doing forest remediation work. They kept as many trees as possible when putting in the trails, while ensuring the underbrush was cleared away to reduce the risk of fire.
The poles had to be painted to comply with aviation regulations to warn low flying aircraft. Bennett himself has taken the added precaution to write to the airports and aviation companies in the area.
Bennett’s business partner and operations manager, Josh Sears, is an experienced guide. The 12 staff members have received intensive training over the last few weeks.
The park also offers an interpretive walk explaining the local flora and fauna as guests proceed from platform to platform, a puzzlearium for those who enjoy solving puzzles, and a picnic area. In addition ZipZone has joined forces with other local attractions to offer packaged deals.
ZipZone opened on Wednesday, June 8. For information go to www.ZipZone.ca.