Play Tarzan for a Day at Myrtle Beach Ziplines, Ropes Courses

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Myrtle Beach is famous for its high-tech thrill rides like the SlingShot, SkyScraper, and Swamp Fox Roller Coaster. Even the slow-moving, 190-foot Myrtle Beach SkyWheel that lights up the downtown skyline can be scary for those afraid of heights.

But for a growing number of adrenaline junkies, less is more when it comes to adventure. The growing trend of eco-tourism has found a foothold on the Grand Strand with several new ziplines and ropes courses opening in recent years. These attractions, mostly made of wood and wire, give visitors the chance to escape the neon landscape and get back to nature with some breath-taking stunts and scenery. Here are four places where you can play Tarzan for a day on the Grand Strand:

Go Ape Treetop Adventure: This international chain of outfitters recently opened in the new North Myrtle Beach Sports and Recreation Complex, providing an opportunity for nature lovers and thrill seekers to find both in one scenic location. Built in the densely wooded canopy in the heart of the 350-acre park, Go Ape offers experienced guides to lead you through a series of rope obstacles and ziplines. The grand finale involves a zipline ride over a 50-acre lake, the perfect way to end a day in the natural setting. The tour involves a safety briefing, a repelling lesson, and lasts about 2 to 3 hours.

Myrtle Beach Zipline: Located in the downtown Myrtle Beach district on the former site of The Pavilion, this spot has a proud history of providing thrills and chills to vacationers. This new attraction continues the tradition on the vacant lot with a pair of towers on opposite ends and a series of wires running between them. Patrons ascend the six-story tower and strap into their safety harness for a wild ride on the zipline, and the attraction also offers a free fall from the landing tower to conclude your adventure.

Radical Ropes Adventure Course: This brand-new obstacle ropes course and zipline opened over the summer and has been drawing big crowds because of its diverse extreme-sports opportunities. Adults can test their skills on a ropes course that's high in the trees and a zipline that spans the length of the two-block complex on the south end of Myrtle Beach. Radical Ropes also offers a chance for children to get into the act with a climbing wall and low-to-the-ground obstacle course. The complex also offers miniature golf, an arcade and other activities to keep the whole family entertained and engaged.

Soar & Explore: Located at Broadway at the Beach, this attraction is affiliated with WonderWorks, a mad-science lab that attracts all ages. Adults can add Soar & Explore onto their WonderWorks admission for a discount, or skip the main attraction and sign up for this thrilling zipline trip over Lake Broadway. Patrons strap into their harness and, after a brief safety lesson, launch themselves over the lake and to an awaiting perch where bystanders cheer you on. Soar & Explore also offers a ropes obstacle course and a rock-climbing wall. This is the perfect way to break up the monotony of a day of shopping.

After a thrilling day on the ropes, return to your relaxing room at the Paradise Resort and unwind while reliving your adventure. Kick back on your oceanfront balcony or take a dip in the indoor pool, lazy river and hot tubs to reward you for your brave feat and memorable adventure.

 

(Posted: 10/12/15)