“The Flying Dutchman,” Rainforest Adventures, St. Maarten
ZIPrider® Technology
Engineered for Performance, Reliability, and Safety
ZipRider® attractions are engineered to deliver safe, efficient, high‑capacity operations in some of the most demanding environments in the world. Every major component of the system- the trolleys, harnesses, terminal brake assembly, and equipment retrieval system- is protected by U.S. and international patents. Together, these technologies provide a reliable, predictable, low‑labor zip line attraction that meets the highest standards of safety and operational performance, while delivering exceptional financial results across cruise ports, mountain resorts, and global tourism destinations.
Every aspect of the ZipRider® and ZipTour® system is engineered to support:
- high throughput
- low labor requirements
- consistent landing speeds
- minimal downtime
- efficient guest flow
The ZipTour® system utilizes a patented, rider‑controlled trolley that allows guests to modulate their descent while maintaining the same high standards of safety, reliability, and operational efficiency.
All ZipRider® and ZipTour® systems are designed and manufactured in compliance with ASTM F2959, ASTM F770, and ANSI B77 standards.
Patented Trolley & Braking Technology
The ZipRider® trolley features an adjustable braking mechanism that allows a single trolley design to perform across a wide range of cable lengths and grades. The same trolley can be used on rides as short as 750 feet or as long as 5,771 feet, and on grades from 8% to 34%. This adaptability is one of the core engineering advantages of the ZipRider® system.
Each ride cable is tensioned to eliminate low points or “bellies,” ensuring riders cannot roll back into the span—a common issue on traditional canopy tours. This design guarantees that guests of all sizes and weights reach the landing platform consistently, eliminating time‑consuming mid‑span rescues and supporting high, predictable throughput.
In addition to the trolley’s adjustable braking mechanism, ZipRider® and ZipTour® systems utilize our proprietary spring‑dampening terminal brake assembly that provides controlled, predictable deceleration at the bottom of each ride or span. This patented system absorbs energy smoothly and consistently, ensuring reliable stopping performance across a wide range of rider weights and environmental conditions.
Patented Equipment Retrieval System
After each ride cycle, the patented ZipRider® Equipment Retrieval System automatically returns the trolley and harness to the top of the ride.
This system:
– lowers labor requirements
– reduces operator fatigue
– eliminates manual equipment transportation
– maintains a steady operational rhythm
– supports high throughput
Depending on the ride length, number of cables, and operating hours, a ZipRider® installation can cycle over 500 guests per day with minimal staffing.
Extreme Engineering Capabilities
ZipRider® technology enables installations that push the boundaries of what a zip line attraction can be. Our team has designed and built:
- the world’s longest ZipRider® — 8,350 ft at Parque de Aventura Barrancas del Cobre, Copper Canyon, Mexico
- the world’s steepest ZipRider® — 42% grade “Flying Dutchman” ZipRider® at Rainforest Adventures, St. Maarten
- one of the largest multi‑span tours — the ZipTour® at Sundance Resort, Utah is almost 2 miles in length
With 32 installations worldwide, ZipRider® and ZipTour® attractions can operate year‑round in alpine, coastal, desert, and tropical environments.
