The Epic Zipline Tour is the valley's big adrenaline outing, and it is built to be done in the middle of a wine country day. Run by Highline Adventures, it takes small groups of up to eight out onto a course of dual ziplines that the host describes as totaling more than 7,500 feet. The first line is billed at 3,360 feet, which the operator calls the longest in California, and the final line is described as the steepest and fastest in the state. Dual lines mean two people can launch side by side, so it works as a shared challenge for couples, friends and parents with teenagers rather than a solo test of nerve. The experience lasts about two hours from check-in to return. You meet at an address on Highway 246 in Buellton, drive a dirt road to the parking area and walk a short way to basecamp, where harnesses, gloves and helmets are fitted and the guides brief the group. The scenery is the Santa Ynez Valley's golden grassland and oak-dotted hills, a very different landscape from the beaches on the other side of the mountains. It is among the best-reviewed activities in the Santa Barbara area, with hundreds of five-star ratings.
What to expect
A guided course, so the pace is set by the team rather than by you, and the briefing and gear check take a share of the two hours. Safety equipment is supplied, tickets are mobile, and start times are chosen when you reserve. The activity asks for a moderate level of fitness, and the operator advises against it for travelers with back problems, pregnant travelers and anyone with heart problems or other serious medical conditions.
It is not wheelchair accessible. Because weight and age limits are not spelled out on the booking page, contact the operator before you book if anyone in your group is very young, very light or very heavy.
Doing it well
Wear closed-toe shoes you do not mind getting dusty, long enough pants to keep harness straps from rubbing, and sunscreen and a hat for the walk to basecamp, since the valley is hot and exposed in summer. Bring water, leave loose items in the car, and secure sunglasses and phones, because anything that can fall will fall.
Morning slots tend to be cooler and clearer, and they leave the afternoon free for wine tasting. Do not stack a long tasting before the course, since a steady head makes the final run more fun.
Fitting it into a trip
Buellton sits at the gateway to the valley, roughly three-quarters of an hour from Santa Barbara by road over the mountains, so the zipline pairs naturally with OstrichLand, Solvang's windmills and bakeries, and an afternoon in the Los Olivos tasting rooms. A full valley day might read zipline, lunch in Solvang, then two or three tastings. Families with older children get the most from it, and couples looking for something more energetic than a spa day will find it a memorable break from the usual wine-country script.
A final practical point is timing
Because the course sits on exposed hillside, hot afternoons in late summer can be uncomfortable, so the cooler first slot of the day is usually the better bet, and it keeps the rest of your valley itinerary relaxed.
What to expect
The experience
A guided zipline course on dual lines, with a gear fitting and briefing at basecamp, in groups of up to eight, starting and ending at a meeting point in Buellton.
Best time
Morning departures, for cooler air and clearer light, leaving the afternoon for tastings or lunch in Solvang.
How long
About two hours from check-in to return.
Tips
Wear closed-toe shoes and long pants, bring water and sun protection, and secure loose items. Confirm age and weight limits with the operator before booking. Not wheelchair accessible.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Active couples, friends and families with teenagers who want a thrill in wine country.
- Families
- Best for older children and teens; check age and weight limits with the operator first.
- Couples
- Dual lines let you launch together, followed by a long lunch in Solvang.
- Pair with
- OstrichLand USA, Solvang and the Los Olivos tasting rooms.
- Time needed
- Two hours plus roughly 45 minutes of driving each way from Santa Barbara.
Good questions
How long does the zipline tour last?+
About two hours, including check-in, the gear fitting and safety briefing at basecamp, and the course itself.
How long are the lines?+
The operator describes the course as more than 7,500 feet of dual ziplines, with an opening line of 3,360 feet and a steep, fast final run.
Where does it start?+
At a meeting point on Highway 246 in Buellton. You drive a short dirt road to the parking area and walk to basecamp for check-in.
What should I wear?+
Closed-toe shoes, long pants and sun protection. Harnesses, gloves and helmets are provided. Secure phones and sunglasses before you ride.
Is it suitable for everyone?+
No. It is not wheelchair accessible and is not recommended for people with back problems, heart conditions or pregnancy. Moderate fitness is expected, so check limits with the operator.
