The Okanagan is known for relaxation, but it also has a thriving adventure scene, and this tour combines the two. You spend part of the day zipping through forest and over canyons on a guided zipline course, then wind down with a winery tasting, so you earn your wine with a morning of thrills. It is one of the better ways to experience the contrast that defines the valley, where rugged hills and desert-dry slopes sit beside manicured vineyards and calm lakes. The format suits groups of friends, couples who like a bit of fun and anyone who finds a pure wine tour a little too gentle. The zipline portion is led by trained guides who fit your harness, explain the rules and take you through a series of lines at increasing heights and speeds. You do not need previous experience, and the guides emphasise safety and encouragement, so first-timers usually finish with a big grin. The wine portion then offers a tasting at a local winery, often with a tasting room view over the lake. Combined tours handle the transport between the two, so you do not need to plan the logistics yourself.
What to do
Check in with the guides, fit your harness and helmet, listen to the safety briefing and head to the first platform. You then clip in and zip along the lines, with guides at both ends to help you launch and land. Between lines you may walk short trails or cross bridges, with time for photos and for catching your breath.
Afterwards the group travels to a winery for a tasting, where you sample a selection of wines and can ask questions about the region. Check the details for your booking, because the order of activities and the inclusions can vary.
Practical planning
There are usually minimum and maximum weight limits and age requirements for ziplining, and some health conditions, including back problems, heart conditions and pregnancy, may rule you out. Wear closed shoes with good grip, comfortable clothes that you can move in and secure long hair. Leave loose items in the vehicle, since anything not fastened can fall.
Because the course involves heights, tell your guide if you are nervous, and remember you can usually choose to skip a line. The tour operates mainly in warmer months and can be postponed in poor weather or high winds, so check the cancellation policy.
Fitting it in
This is a half-day to full-day outing, so plan the rest of your day lightly. It works best earlier in the trip, when you have energy, and it pairs well with a relaxed dinner on the waterfront. Pair it with the canyoning tour if you want an even more adventurous trip, or with a calmer day of e-bike touring and food tastings. Book ahead for summer weekends, wear layers for changing temperatures, and eat a good breakfast before you set off.
What to expect
The experience
A guided zipline course followed by a winery tasting, with transport between the two.
Best time
Warm, calm days from late spring to early autumn, with morning departures often the most comfortable.
How long
Allow around four to six hours, depending on the tour you choose.
Tips
Wear closed shoes, secure loose items, check weight and health rules, and eat a good breakfast.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Friends and couples who want adrenaline and wine in a single outing.
- Families
- Check the age and weight limits; this combined format is mainly for adults.
- Couples
- A thrill in the morning and a quiet tasting afterwards.
- Pair with
- The canyoning tour, a lakeside dinner or a food tour.
- Time needed
- Half a day to a full day.
Good questions
Do I need experience?+
No, guides provide a briefing and fit your harness. Most people are comfortable after the first line.
Are there weight or health limits?+
Yes, ziplining usually has weight and age limits and may exclude some health conditions. Read the conditions carefully before booking.
Is wine tasting included?+
Combined tours include a winery tasting, but check the booking for the number of wines and any extras.
What if the weather is bad?+
High wind or storms can postpone the zipline. Check the cancellation policy and keep your plans flexible.
What should I wear?+
Closed shoes with grip, comfortable clothes and secured hair. Leave loose items behind.
