Zipline Tours in Maui

Ziplining on one of Maui's five courses lets you satisfy your inner Tarzan by soaring high above deep gulches and canyons—for a price that can seem steep. A harness keeps you fully supported on each ride. Each course has its own age minimums and weight restrictions but, generally, you must be at least 10 years old and weigh a minimum of 60-80 pounds and a maximum of 250-275 pounds. You should wear closed-toe athletic-type shoes and expect to get dirty. Zipline tours are completely safe, but reconsider this activity if you are pregnant, uncomfortable with heights, or have serious back or joint problems.

Flyin' Hawaiian Zipline. These guys have the longest line in the state (a staggering 3,600 feet), as well as the most unique course layout. You build confidence on the first line, then board a four-wheel-drive vehicle that takes you 1,500 feet above the town of Waikapu to seven more lines that carry you over 11 ridges and nine valleys. The total distance covered is more than 2½ mi, and the views are astonishing. The price of $185 includes water and snacks. You must be able to hike over steep, sometimes slippery terrain while carrying a 10-pound metal trolley. HI. 808/463-5786. www.flyinhawaiianzipline.com..

Kapalua Adventures Ziplines. This zipline course has almost 2 mi of parallel lines, enabling two riders to zip side by side. At at 2,300 feet, line 3 is the longest. A "zipper lifter" (like a chair lift) takes you to the upper lines, but you must still be able to hike 1 mi over sometimes-steep terrain while carrying a 15-pound trolley. Prices range from $154 to $249. Kapalua Adventures also has a high-ropes challenge course and the Giant Swing, an exhilarating 40-foot-high tandem experience that's as thrilling as any amusement park ride. 2000 Village Rd., Kapalua, HI, 96761. 808/665-3753 or. www.gozipmaui.com.

Piiholo Ranch Zipline. This complex, on a gorgeous 900-acre family ranch, has six ziplines—five parallel lines and one quadruple—plus a 12-person climbing tower. Access to the fifth and longest line is via a four-wheel-drive vehicle to the top of Piiholo Hill, where you are treated to stunning bicoastal views. Guides do a good job of weaving Hawaiian culture into the adventure. You must be able to climb three steep suspension bridges while hefting a 12-pound trolley over your shoulder. Prices range from $140 for four lines to $190 for five. The new canopy tour keeps you in the trees the entire time ($90 to $165). Bring a lightweight jacket. Piiholo Rd., Makawao, HI, 96768. 808/572-1717. www.piiholozipline.com.

Skyline Eco Adventures. The first company to open a zipline course in the United States, Skyline operates in two locations on Maui: the original course on the slope of Haleakala (five lines ranging from 50 to 720 feet) and the newer venue at 1,000 feet above Kaanapali (eight lines ranging from 50 to 1,000 feet). Guides have you "zipping" confidently in no time. Dress in layers for the $95 Haleakala tour, as it can get chilly. The $150 Kaanapali tour includes breakfast or lunch. Advance reservations are suggested, and discounts are available for online bookings. HI. 808/878-8400. www.zipline.com.