As a dad, I’m always looking for ways to get the family out of the house and away from screens. You know the drill—less scrolling, more doing. When my wife suggested a family zip line adventure at Big Bear Lake, I was all in. My kids have a knack for turning every weekend into a quest for excitement, and this sounded like the perfect way to channel their energy. Little did I know it would turn out to be one of the most memorable family experiences we've ever had.
Setting The Scene
Big Bear Lake is already a family favorite for us. Nestled in the San Bernardino Mountains, it’s the kind of place that feels like it’s straight out of a postcard—pine trees everywhere, crisp mountain air, and endless outdoor activities. But this time, we weren’t here for a leisurely hike or a quiet day by the lake. This time, we were chasing adrenaline.
The zip line setup at Big Bear is impressive. It’s not just one line; it’s a whole course. You’re whisked through treetops, across canyons, and over breathtaking landscapes. From the moment we arrived, I could feel the excitement building, especially in my kids. My youngest, who’s normally a little hesitant about heights, was practically bouncing with anticipation.
The Prep Talk
Before we could zoom off into the wilderness like action heroes, there was a safety briefing. The guides were friendly and made sure everyone felt comfortable, even cracking a few jokes to ease the pre-zip jitters. My kids, of course, were already trying to one-up each other about who would go the fastest or scream the loudest. Meanwhile, my wife and I exchanged a quick look that said, “Let’s just survive this.”
The guides showed us how to gear up with harnesses, helmets, and gloves, making sure everything was secure before we even stepped onto the first platform. They explained how to brake, steer, and, most importantly, how not to panic. I appreciated the professionalism because, let’s be honest, I wasn’t about to dangle hundreds of feet in the air without feeling completely confident in the setup. My dad instincts were in overdrive, scanning every clip and carabiner to make sure my family would be safe.
The First Leap
The first zip line was a smaller one, designed to ease everyone into the experience. Even so, standing on that platform and looking down was enough to make my stomach do a little flip. My middle child volunteered to go first—fearless, of course. Watching them zoom off into the trees with a whoop of pure joy was both nerve-wracking and exhilarating.
When it was my turn, I took a deep breath, gripped the handles, and stepped off the platform. The feeling is hard to describe—like flying, but also like letting go of every worry you’ve been carrying. The wind rushing past, the view of the forest below, and the sound of my kids cheering me on from the next platform—it was incredible.
Building Confidence
By the second and third zip lines, we were all getting the hang of it. Each line was longer and faster than the last, with varying heights and angles. My youngest, who had been a little hesitant at first, was now zipping along like a pro, shouting, “This is awesome!” at the top of their lungs.
As a dad, it was amazing to see the kids push their boundaries. They weren’t just having fun; they were conquering fears and building confidence with every leap. Even my wife, who’s usually the cautious one, was laughing and enjoying the ride.
The Canyon Line
The highlight of the course was a massive zip line that spanned a deep canyon. This was the big one—the kind of line that makes your heart race just looking at it. The guides called it the “screamer,” and for good reason. As I stepped up to the platform, I could feel the adrenaline kicking in.
The ride across the canyon was pure magic. The drop was steep, the line was fast, and the view was absolutelybreathtaking. For those few seconds, it felt like I was soaring over the world, completely weightless and free. My kids were waiting on the other side, jumping up and down as they watched me come in for a landing.
More Than Just Adventure
What struck me the most about the experience wasn’t just the thrill of the zip lines, but the way it brought us together as a family. Between the nervous laughter, the cheering each other on, and the shared sense of accomplishment, it was a reminder of how important these moments are. It wasn’t just about the adventure; it was about connection.
We spent the rest of the day talking about our favorite lines, who had the best “zip face,” and how we couldn’t wait to do it again. The kids were already planning their next trip before we even left the parking lot.
Tips for Your Trip
If you’re thinking about taking your family on a zip line adventure at Big Bear Lake, here are a few things I’drecommend:
- Dress for the weather: It can get chilly in the mountains, even in summer, so layers are your friend.
- Wear good shoes: Closed-toe shoes are a must, and something with a good grip is even better.
- Listen to the guides: They know what they’re doing, and their tips will make your experience smoother and safer.
- Bring a sense of adventure: If you’re nervous, that’s okay! Start with the smaller lines and work your way up.
Final Thoughts
Our zip line adventure at Big Bear Lake was more than just a fun day out—it was an experience we’ll be talking about for years to come. As a dad, there’s nothing better than seeing your family step out of their comfort zones and embrace something new together.
So, if you’re looking for a way to add a little thrill to your family time, grab your gear, head to Big Bear, and take the leap. Trust me, it’s worth it.
