WHERE DID ZIPLINING COME FROM?
What comes to mind when you think of ziplining? For many people, the first thing that comes to mind is the exhilarating experience of soaring through the trees. But where did this activity come from and how did it become so popular? In this blog post, we will explore the origins of ziplining and discuss how it has become such a popular activity all over the world!
It Wasn’t Always For Fun
Ziplining is a popular activity enjoyed by people all over the world, but it has a long and interesting history dating back hundreds of years. The first ziplines were used in Ancient China to safely cross rivers and other dangerous areas. However, due to the poor safety record of these ziplines, they were eventually replaced by bridges.
They were also used to send supplies, materials, and goods over treacherous areas and to make things much more convenient.
History & Donald Perry
While he didn’t invent the concept of ziplining or ziplines, he played a major role in sharing it with the rest of the world.
Although ziplines have existed for centuries, the modern recreational versions can be dated back to the 1970s. Donald Perry, a graduate student at California State University, Northridge was doing research in Costa Rica’s rainforest and studying its diverse wildlife when he had the idea to create a zip course that people could use for recreation. In 1979, Perry came up with a more efficient method of getting around the trees: he designed and built his own zipline.
The Media Finds Ziplining
As popular media outlets and magazines such as National Geographic and Smithsonian Magazine caught on to this activity, ziplining began to spread across the globe. Today, there are zipline courses in countries all over the world, from the United States to Australia. While some people use ziplining to get an adrenaline rush, others simply enjoy the unique experience of zipping lining through a natural setting. No matter what the reason, it’s clear that ziplining is here to stay.
The Zipline Patent
Perry managed to patent his zipline technology after 20 speedy years in the rainforest. However, he had many rivals for this patent. The first person who took on Perry was a Canadian hoping to erect some zip lines in the Rara Avis Rainforest Reserve located in Costa Rica. Once Perry declined him, the Canadian built his own and eventually fought for ownership of the design.
Ziplines in Australia
Ziplining also was present in Australia to help with their wars. The troops would use this efficient transportation method to deliver food, mail, and ammunition. Ziplining was slowly built up over the years to turn into what we now know as modern fun and adrenaline.
Fun Facts
• North Carolina has the most ziplines out of any other state.
• In Australia and New Zealand, a zipline is called a “flying fox”.
• While the sport seems so popular now, in 2001 there were only 20 existing ziplines.
• In certain parts of China, children would zipline to school.
Come Zipline with Koloa Zipline!
Ziplining has come a long way since its humble beginnings in the jungles of Costa Rica. Today, it is one of the most popular adventure activities, enjoyed by people of all ages. And there is no better place to experience the thrill of ziplining than Kauai, Hawaii. With its lush forests and stunning mountaintop views, Kauai is a true paradise for adrenaline junkies and nature lovers. At Koloa Zipline, we offer something for everyone! So what are you waiting for? Book a tour today and experience the excitement of ziplining in Kauai!