Sunny Weekend Alert
The Zoo anticipates high attendance on sunny weekends. Parking is limited, so arrive early, carpool, and check our site / social pages often for more updates!
Air Hike Ropes Course
Season
April - October
Weekly Schedule
Everyday
10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Last entry 4:00 p.m.
Weather Permitting
Cost
Additional Fee $18 per person
Located in Africa near Lemur Island
Sponsored by Randolph Friends of the Zoo
Weather dependent. May close due to excessive heat
Weight limits and height requirements apply
Elevate Your NC Zoo Experience
For those seeking to challenge their physical abilities, the North Carolina Zoo’s new Air Hike is a must for fun and adventure! This elevated course features a series of activities designed to safely test your balance and climbing skills plus increase self-reliance. After putting on a harness and donning a helmet, you and your friends will scamper up the rope tunnel to the central hub platform. From there, 11 other platforms beckon you to complete 23 obstacles. A skilled guide will encourage you along and give tips for navigating the system. Obstacles include swinging logs, plank walk, tight rope, Burma bridge, spider web, post hop and balance beam to name a few.
- Purchase your tickets at the Air Hike entrance. Cash, credit, debit and Zoo giftcards accepted.
- Expect to spend around 30 to 60 minutes on the course.
- Ticket sales end at 4 p.m.
- Air Hike is weather dependent.
Come Prepared!
To ensure the fun and safety of everyone participating, please review the following requirements:
- A signed release form is required prior to participating on the course.
- Participant must be 60” tall to participate alone
- Participants 48" - 59" tall (minimum age 6) can be accompanied by someone who is at least 16 years of age and 60" tall. (all must pay to participate)
- Participant maximum weight is 250 lbs.
- Participant must safely fit in full body harness; confidential weigh-in may be required.
- Dresses and skirts are not allowed due to elevated course and full body harness.
- No flip-flops, open toe or open heel shoes are allowed. Ensure shoe laces are tied and shoes are secure.
- Participant must empty your pockets. Storage containers are available at ticketing.
- No loose objects such as cell phones or cameras are allowed.
- Please secure your eye-wear. We are not responsible for lost or misplaced personal items.
- No gum, food or drinks are allowed on Air Hike.
- Only one participant on an activity at a time, unless chaperone is assisting a child.
FAQ's
Should I participate in this activity?
Should I participate in this activity?
Participants must be in good health and good physical condition to participate. Expectant mothers should not participate in this activity. If your health is at risk for any reason, including aggravating a preexisting condition of any kind, please do not participate.
What kind of clothing should be worn?
What kind of clothing should be worn?
No loose fitting clothing, skirts or dresses, No open toed or open healed shoes, no sandals of any type, no loose fitting type slip on shoes, no boots or shoes with heels. Acceptable shoes should be of an athletic type sneaker or hiking shoe.
Why is Airhike closed today?
Why is Airhike closed today?
Airhike closes due to winds over 20 mph, thunderstorms, heavy rain or excessive heat. On occasion Airhike may be reserved for private events.
Garden Friends Playground
This 5,625-square-foot area transforms gigantic sculptures of bugs, leaves, flowers and insects into an exciting playground for children!
Garden Friends
Hiking Trails
The North Carolina Zoo invites its guests to venture down one of our many hiking trails. The Zoo’s trails include more than 5 different trail options with various lengths and difficulty levels.
Hiking Trails
Treehouse Trek
Treehouse Trek is a new adventure for guests of all abilities. Portions of this attraction are wheelchair accessible.
Treehouse Trek
Location