Flyin' Hawaiian Zipline: Eco Tourism for Thrill Seekers

High above the fragile beauty of the Waikapu Preserve in Maui, an exhilarating, adrenaline-pumping sightseeing opportunity awaits - but this eco tour is not for the faint of heart.  Flyin' Hawaiian is a 5-hour rush of spine tingling, high speed views featuring the natural beauty of Maui.  The tour boasts 8 unique zipline courses, including the longest line in Hawaii - an amazing 3,600 feet of flying!  In addition to the breathtaking scenery and fast-paced action, Flyin' Hawaiian tours also offers visitors a chance to protect and preserve the natural environment around them.

The Thrills

Guests begin their 2.5 mile journey of zipping with a short trainer line before heading off to the 2,800-foot line that soars through the scenic West Maui Mountains.  The next line, 1900-feet long, boasts a 500-foot vertical drop and speeds of up to 55 mph.  A 2,100-foot line is then completed before guests have the opportunity to ride backwards along the short, but fun, 500-foot zipline that marks the midway point of the tour.

Before braving the final line - more than two-thirds of a mile long and crossing 3 majestic mountain ridges - guests will zip across 2 other lines, totaling 1,400-feet in length.  A 6-passenger ATV provides transportation between lines and short, but strenuous hiking is required in some spots.  Some of Maui's most amazing views can be seen during the exhilirating 5-hour tour.

Eco Initiatives

From the construction to participation, Flyin' Hawaiian is an eco-friendly tourist attraction designed to allow guests to enjoy the beauty of Maui without disturbing its fragile ecosystem.

• Materials were delivered by helicopter or packed in by hikers;
• On-site invasive trees were harvested to build platforms, handrails, and furniture;
• Composting toilets are used at the solar-powered rest area;
• Reusable water bottles are provided to all guests, eliminating plastic waste along the course;
• Native endangered seedlings are planted by every tour group to replenish the preserve.

How to Fly Hawaiian

Since opening in July of 2009, the Flyin' Hawaiian tours have stayed booked well in advance.  Reservations are required and should be secured as early as possible.  Three groups leave daily, but only 12 people are allowed on each tour.  Participants must be at least 10 years old and should be able to carry 10 pounds of gear.  Cost for the 5-hour tour is $185 per person.  Reservations can be made online at AdventureMaui.com.

Sources: AdventureMaui; Star Bulletin