America’s Longest Zip Line Opens

Thrill-seeking parents and older kids can ride America’s longest span of zip line this summer when Catamount Mountain Resort opens the “Cata-monster.” More than 1 mile long, this aerial span is the final in a series of three zip lines that descend from the mountain summit to the base. Family members can travel side by side on the dual lines or race each other to the bottom.

Speeds on the Cata-monster can reach above 55 mph, but those who prefer to go slower can control their speed with a user-operated braking system. The two-hour experience begins with a ride to the top of Catamount Mountain on the chairlift, where riders are fitted for a harness and receive safety training. From there, it’s all downhill; riders who choose a slower descent are treated to beautiful views of the Berkshires and the Hudson Valley as they ride down.

Children must be at least 10 years old, weigh at least 50 pounds and be 55 inches tall. Maximum weight is 260 pounds.

Younger children, aged 7 and older, can find aerial challenges at Catamount Aerial Adventure Park, one of New England’s largest. The park’s nine courses are suspended throughout the forest canopy and vary in difficulty, with zip lines, ladders, bridges and other challenges. Staff is on hand to provide equipment and help.

New England’s largest Aerial Obstacle Course is at Gunstock Mountain in New Hampshire’s lakes region. The eight high ropes courses include more than 80 different challenges and an Explorer course just for kids. Along with the zip lines, families can challenge themselves on log ladders, foot bridges, swings and seesaws. On Gunstock’s 1.6-mile zip line course, riders can reach speeds as high as 70 mph on The Recoil Zip, one of five lines.