A 40-foot high zip line is part of the new expansion

A new kind of thrill comes to Montgomery Whitewater, looking to prove that there’s as much adventure on earth—and in the sky—as there are rapids.

“It’s fun. It’s very exciting,” said Wilson Calhoun, Montgomery Whitewater athletic manager.

There he tried out a new ropes and zipline course called the Canopy Ridge Traverse. It opens on November 9, along with a new set of multi-use trails for walking, running and cycling.

“We’re excited to create new ways for people to get outside and stay active at Montgomery Whitewater Park,” said Chief Executive Officer Jeffrey Gustin. “By adding new attractions like these, we are becoming a favorite destination for locals and visitors alike to enjoy a wide range of healthy outdoor activities, making Montgomery a more attractive place for travelers and a better place to live.

“We have 16 elements of high ropes that hang from trees and overcome various challenges – rope bridges, cargo nets, etc.”

As guests make their way through, they’ll also fly down seven ziplines set between rope challenges.

Guests can travel on two separate courses, as well as zipline segments ranging from 50 to 165 feet in length. The courses end with a tandem zip line of approximately 150 feet.

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“At the highest point, you’re probably about 40 feet off the ground,” Calhoun said.

Imagine the scenes as you rise and float along the Alabama River.

“You get a good view when you’re up high in the trees and down those cables,” Calhoun said.

Although the amount of time required to complete the course depends on each person’s ability and the size of the group, Montgomery Whitewater books 2-hour trips.

“Something like this course is a great opportunity for groups to get out of their comfort zone a little bit and do a little team building,” Calhoun said.

While there are no age restrictions for the ropes and zip lines, there are weight requirements. Calhoun said the course manufacturer recommends a minimum of 75 pounds and a maximum of 275 pounds.

“This weight range is not because the course cannot support people outside of that weight range, but rather for the safety of the people on the ziplines,” Calhoun said. “If you weigh less than 75 pounds, you may not make it to the end of the zip line. On the other hand, you don’t want to build up too much speed going down the zip line.”

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Although the ropeways and ziplines will open on November 9, reservations will begin on November 1 at montgomerywhitewater.com. The process is similar to booking a rafting trip. Calhoun said when the course officially opens Nov. 9, guests will also be able to purchase access in person at the facility. Calhoun said group rates will be available.

Although Montgomery Whitewater provides all safety essentials, such as helmets and seat belts, there are some personal clothing requirements for guests. They must wear shoes with closed toes.

“We also ask that you wear clothing that is not too loose,” Calhoun said. “It must be securely attached to the body. Things like dresses and skirts won’t work here.”

Walk, run or ride on a wild path

Montgomery Whitewater Land has nearly three miles of hiking, running and mountain biking trails that are open to everyone—no weight or age restrictions, and they’re free to use.

“Walking along the trails is free. You can bring your own bike to the trails, run the trails for free,” Calhoun said.

For guests who want to rent a mountain bike to ride there, Calhoun said they will be available at Montgomery Whitewater.

“They’re not difficult,” Calhoun said of the trails. “They are very beginner friendly.”

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They are also very scenic, with some trails leading near the Alabama River.

“It’s a wooded area and it’s really beautiful,” Calhoun said. “One of the trails in particular is that you’re on a bluff by the Alabama River, so you get to see all types of wildlife on the riverbanks, as well as all types of plant life. There are very cool oaks and sycamores.”

One trail goes up near a cypress swamp.

“I’ve been there and seen all types of wildlife like deer, birds, little fox squirrels, raccoons, etc.,” Calhoun said.

There is no age limit for the route, but young children must be accompanied by an adult.

More growth to come

In November, Montgomery Whitewater plans to open a 5,000-square-foot ice rink on the property. They also previously announced plans for a small water trail area for kids, an on-site hotel and brewery.

Currently there is a restaurant here and a bar that often hosts live music.

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Opening in the summer of 2023, the 120-acre facility, with artificial whitewater channels, is one of only three such systems in the US. Along with rafting and kayaking by the general public, it has been used for canoeing and kayaking competitions, and as a trial area for The US Olympic Kayaking and Canoeing Team.

The area has also been used for events such as 5km races and fun runs, activities aimed at keeping people active.

For those who don’t get into the water or zip line, Montgomery Whitewater is open to the public for free.

Follow events online at montgomerywhitewater.com.

Montgomery Advertiser reporter Shannon Heupel talks about things to do in the River Region. Contact him at [email protected]

This article originally appeared on the Montgomery Advertiser: Montgomery Whitewater is expanding with ropeways, ziplines, trails