ACE Adventure Resort's canopy tour in Lansing, West Virginia, offers a guided zip-line experience above the forest canopy of the New River Gorge region—one of the most scenic natural areas in the Appalachian Mountains. The course consists of nine zip lines reaching individual lengths of up to 900 feet, connected by treetop platforms and short walking segments through second-growth Appalachian forest.
The tour is conducted entirely by ACE's certified canopy tour guides, who facilitate transitions at each platform, instruct participants on braking technique, and manage all safety equipment. The harness and helmet system used are standard commercial zip-line equipment inspected before each use. Gloves are provided to protect hands during braking. The entire experience typically lasts two to three hours from harness fitting to the final descent.
Participants must weigh between 70 and 250 pounds and be at least seven years old. Adults near the weight limit should contact ACE directly before booking to confirm current weight restrictions, which can change based on equipment specifications. The course is not recommended for individuals with significant fear of heights, as the platforms reach elevations of 50 to 70 feet above the forest floor.
All guides provide a pre-tour safety briefing covering braking technique, body position during flight, and protocol for stopping at platforms. The course is designed so that participants can self-brake on all but the fastest lines, where guides manage speed from the receiving platform. No prior zip-lining experience is necessary.
Closed-toe shoes are required; sandals and flip-flops are not permitted on the course. Participants are advised to secure loose items including glasses (a strap is recommended), earrings, and dangling accessories before the first launch. ACE Adventure Resort is located at 1 Minden Road, Lansing, WV 25862, adjacent to the New River Gorge National Park. The canopy tour is offered daily from April through October and can be combined with the resort's rafting, climbing, and ATV packages.
Activity facts
- Where
- Lansing, New River Gorge
- Duration
- 2-3 hours
Equipment
- Harness (provided)
- Helmet (provided)
- Gloves (provided)
- Closed-toe shoes required
Location
1 Minden Rd, Lansing, WV 25862
38.0681, -81.0932 View on map
Highlights
- Soar across nine zip lines up to 900 feet long through the Appalachian forest canopy above the New River Gorge region.
- Suitable for participants aged 7 and up (70-250 lbs); ACE certified guides manage all safety systems and provide platform-to-platform instruction.
- No prior experience required; guides teach braking technique at the pre-tour briefing before the first launch.
- Combine with rafting, kayaking, or ATV packages at ACE Adventure Resort for a full multi-activity day in the gorge.
Tips for visiting
- Book the canopy tour at least a week in advance for summer weekend slots; ACE's combined packages book out especially quickly.
- Wear athletic clothing and closed-toe shoes; sandals, flip-flops, and loose footwear are not permitted on the course.
- Secure glasses with a strap and remove dangling earrings or necklaces before starting; loose items can be lost on the zip lines.
- Photography from platforms is possible between flights; confirm helmet-mount GoPro availability with ACE at the time of booking.
Frequently asked questions
What are the age and weight requirements for the ACE canopy tour?
Participants must be at least 7 years old and weigh between 70 and 250 pounds. Guests near the weight limits should confirm current restrictions with ACE before booking, as equipment specifications can change.
How long does the zip-line tour take?
The full canopy tour, including harness fitting, safety briefing, and all nine zip lines, typically lasts two to three hours.
Is the zip-line course suitable for someone afraid of heights?
The platforms reach 50-70 feet above the forest floor. The course is not recommended for individuals with significant acrophobia. ACE guides are trained to assist nervous participants, but some platform exposure cannot be avoided on the course.
Can participants bring a camera or phone on the zip lines?
Cameras and phones must be securely pocketed or attached during active flights. Handheld photography while on the line is not permitted for safety reasons. Participants may photograph from platforms between lines.