The zip line at Gatorland in Orlando is a popular outdoor activity for adventure-seekers, and the addition of alligators adds to the thrill. The attraction is worth a stop on its own, but it's best combined with a visit to the rest of Gatorland.
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Here's what you need to know when you're planning to ride the zip line at Orlando's Gatorland.
The zip line
The Screamin' Gator Zip Line is outdoors and spans over seven stories high. You'll zip along for 1,200 feet across five lines, launching high above the treetops from heights of up to 65 feet and making your way to multilevel launch pads.
You'll see a lot more than treetops, though, since crocodiles are hanging out beneath the zip line. You'll also soar over the Alligator Breeding Marsh, which has about 130 alligators, and cross a swinging bridge. Prepare to fly at speeds near 30 miles an hour.
The entire experience, which includes a short safety session, lasts two hours.
Rules and restrictions
As you ride on the zip line, you'll be wearing equipment that's provided to you, which includes a helmet, gloves and a harness.
To ride it, you'll need to be at least 37 inches tall and weigh no more than 275 pounds. You may be required to weigh in. You also need to be able to safely fit into the zip line's harness.
Children who are between 37 and 42 inches tall can sometimes ride in tandem with an adult, as long as their combined weight isn't greater than 275 pounds and they both fit safely into a harness.
You'll need to wear closed-toe shoes, and skirts or dresses aren't allowed.
Since the zip lines travel above areas where Gatorland Park guests and animals are found, you're not allowed to take cameras, cellphones or other devices on your trip. If you have any of these items, you can safely store them in lockers.
Before you ride, you'll have to sign a release, liability waiver and consent form. If you're under 18, this paperwork must be filled out and signed by a parent or natural guardian.
To see the waiver and complete it in advance, click here.
Tickets
Zip line tickets need to be reserved in advance, and the cost includes admission to Gatorland for the entire day. When you place your reservation, you'll see how many slots are left for the particular day and time you want.
Hours of operation
The zip line is open seven days a week, with the first trip starting at 10:30 a.m. and the last of each day starting at various times (often 3:30 p.m., 4 p.m. or 4:30 p.m.) Zip lines are usually scheduled at 45-minute or one-hour intervals.
Directions
Gatorland is located at 14501 S. Orange Blossom Trail in Orlando, about 15 to 20 minutes away from the Orlando International Airport as well as Walt Disney World.
It can be reached via many different major highways, including the following:
- I-4 westbound from Daytona Beach and eastbound from Tampa and Lakeland
- Hwy. 192 east from Melbourne and St. Cloud and west of Disney
- Florida Turnpike south from Miami and north from Wildwood
- I-95 Cocoa Beach or Cape Canaveral
For detailed directions, click here to navigate via the specific highway you'll be taking.
Cox Media Group
