Ziplining on Long Island and Queens: Where to Go

Bellmore resident Keith Annapolen has never been a fan of heights. But after giving his 10-year-old grandson a ziplining experience at Jones Beach, he decided to take on the challenge himself.

“I didn’t pay attention to the height,” Annapolen, 70, says of the zipline, which starts on a platform six meters above the ground. “When you’re up there, you think about crossing.”

Located in the center of Jones Beach State Park, the 700-foot zipline is one of many found on the island and in Queens. Zip lining, which involves sliding through the air along a cable, is not for the faint of heart – but for anyone looking to get out of their comfort zone, it can be a thrilling adventure.

“You don’t have to be a professional athlete, you just have to climb a few stairs (and) sweat,” said Kat Craats, 28, marketing manager for WildPlay Element Parks, which manages the Jones Beach site.

The zipline offers unique views of Long Island’s coastline and, she added, “On a good day you can see the New York City skyline.”

For those who want to fly through a different landscape, Long Island’s Adventure Park in Wheatley Heights offers a variety of aerial obstacle courses, including zip lines that stretch across the park’s vast forest area.

Park manager Phil Insalaco, 43, noted that the park caters to an increasingly diverse group of climbers, from families with young children to seasoned thrill seekers looking for their next adrenaline rush. “We take people through four different skill levels, with a practice line,” he said.

For those unsure if zip lines are the right choice, the Alley Pond Park Adventure Course in Oakland Gardens, Queens, offers a free Sunday program on a first-come, first-served basis. The program runs until October 27.

Annapolen said he successfully completed the Jones Beach course, with help from his grandson Parker and the park’s staff.

“I would love to try it again, maybe at another zipline park on Long Island,” he said.