Ziplining has quickly become a go-to family adventure for us. My two teenage daughters and our fearless 8-year-old all love the thrill of getting harnessed up and soaring over treetops, valleys, and anything else that dares lie beneath.
Our obsession kicked off during a stay at the iconic Skamania Lodge, where we launched into the skies and zipped right past the historic grounds—it was the perfect introduction. Since then, we’ve taken to the lines a couple of times on Maui, each tour adding new heights (literally and figuratively) to our growing collection of airborne memories.
Most recently, during a trip to the Big Island, we booked a tour with Botanical World Adventures—and it absolutely delivered on fun, views, and family-friendly vibes.
Read all our Make a Day of It Features here!
The Running:
Let’s just get this out of the way: the Big Island isn’t exactly a runner’s paradise. Compared to the smoother, more accommodating routes you’ll find on Oʻahu or Maui, this island is rugged—literally. I’ve ran the paved roads of the famed Ironman course, but perhaps one of the most unique – and painful – was running (if you can call it that) on the King’s Highway Foot Trail.
Word of advice? Don’t. Unless you like hopping between lava rocks and tempting injury. I left with a busted finger back in 2021 – not exactly the kind of souvenir I had in mind.
This adventure takes you to the greener, wilder side of the island—just north of Hilo. Over here, you’re swapping running shoes for hiking boots. The terrain is rainforest-thick, waterfall-rich, and totally worth the shift in pace. But do yourself a favor and log your miles before you come out this way.
The Experience:
Let’s be honest: most people have either tried ziplining or at least know what it is. You get strapped into a harness, clip onto a line, and then fly through the air like an adrenaline-charged bird. It’s a blast—but what really separates one tour from another is the scenery, the design of the course, and the crew guiding you through it.
That’s where Botanical World Adventures shines.
Located just outside Hilo, this zipline experience offers eight ziplines and a suspension bridge, all cutting across deep valley gulches brimming with waterfalls, jungle canopies, and views that wouldn’t look out of place in a Jurassic Park movie (which I am watching with my 8-year-old now – still classic). You’ll glide over rivers and through lush rainforest, with sweeping sights of both Mauna Kea and the Pacific Ocean.
The highlight? A jaw-dropping half-mile zipline—the crown jewel of the course—that sails you right over the stunning Kamaʻeʻe Falls. It’s not just a waterfall; it’s a full-on experience. You’ll soar above a 300-foot gorge, past a cascading 250-foot waterfall, and feel completely suspended between peaks and ocean blues.
Gear and views aside, the vibe of any zip tour lives and dies by its guides. Fortunately, the crew here absolutely nailed it. Our guides were friendly, funny, safety-minded, and had the kind of easygoing energy that makes you want to hang out with them even after the final line. Whether it was our 8-year-old or the teens, they made everyone feel comfortable and confident.
Once your adrenaline rush winds down, the fun’s not over. Your ticket includes access to the rest of Botanical World Gardens. Even if you have some family who may not be up for zipping, they (and you!) can spend time wandering through the Arboretum, winding through the Maze, strolling the Rainbow Walk and Rainforest Trail.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
Botanical World Adventures $197-$227
More Info:
The Dates:
- Everyday 8-5pm!
The Deets:
- Adults: $227
- Children: $197
- Duration: ~2.5 hours total
