Seriously, the canyon that that cuts into Runyon Canyon would be perfectly suited for a zip line. (Wikipedia entry)
Picture this: You hike just about halfway up the looped trail into Runyon Canyon, where you get a view pretty close to the one I snapped here (albeit with uber crappy cell phone camera). As a reward for your travel you get tethered to a cable and zip on down the wire at an elevation that exceeds 150 feet (just a wild estimation), finally slowing and coming to a safe stop back by the Fuller entrance.
Sure, there are logistical problems – like how to return the tether to the top, insurance waivers, and dogs abandoned by owners in lieu of the zipline.
Heck, I’d even go with a massive slide all the way down – bring your own burlap bag, or buy one at the top with proceeds going towards park preservation.
Is anyone with me?
Side question: does anyone know of any quality zip lines that already exist in the Los Angeles area?
OMFG yes.
Get this: driving back from Pasadena this evening on the 210, I pass a massive flatbed semi with its cargo neatly covered in tarps all bungeed down tightly. Looked like a heavy load. Passing the cab, what do I see on the door but the logo “ZipLine Inc.”
heh.
How about this one: http://www.glumbert.com/media/zipline
Thanks, Spinslips. While that one’s in South Africa, it actually makes me think one in Runyon Canyon would totally work.
http://www.skylinehawaii.com/
This zipline on Maui is VERY popular, though it’s a stand alone visitor adventure (as opposed to a transportaion option). I’ve been on it 3 times and recommend to anyone. I don’t work for them, just love the adventure — Plus they donate a % of their income to preserving native bird habitat and teach each group about the amazing birds that are becoming extinct in Hawaii.