As you step out on that tiny balcony, the thought, What am I doing? is sure to come to mind. But just as quickly, it will disappear as the thrill of flying through the air overtakes your senses and the realization that you’re glad you shared the experience with your family sets in. A zip line, eco-adventure tour at Cypress Valley Canopy Tours in Spicewood, Texas is perfect family fun.
Where: Spicewood, Texas, is located 30 miles west of Austin, a 4–5-hour drive from Dallas. You can take the traditional route down Interstate 35, but chances are, you’ll get stuck in traffic. It might take you a bit longer, but the scenic route down Highway 281 is the way to go. There are lots of great places to eat on the way down, but whatever you do, be sure to stop for Pie Happy Hour at Blue Bonnet Cafe in Marble Falls.
Why it’s great for families: Cypress Valley Canopy Tours offers a chance for families to unplug and play together on a two-hour zip line course. Ideal for children 10 and up, this is a fun activity to enjoy with your tweens and teens.
What to do: The tour consists of five zip lines, two sky bridges and a rappel that lasts about two hours. After a brief lesson, your group will head out on the eco-tour with two guides, who are there to encourage and motivate you to relax and enjoy the sensation of zip lining. Flying through the green cypress trees of central Texas, you almost feel as if you’re in a lush rainforest.
This is much more than your average zip line tour. The knowledgeable guides will point out various trees and teach you about conservation, leaving you inspired to live more ecologically consciously. When my brood visited, this was a particularly great lesson for my children, as it made for a great discussion about conservation and natural resources on the way home.
Plan to take a picnic lunch, and eat under the trees after your tour. On a warm day, you can take a dip in the swimming hole. For even more thrills, zip line across or swing out on the rope. Alternatively, you can take a quiet nap in one of many hammocks for a little R and R.
Lodging: For a unique overnight experience, stay in one of four treehouse accommodations at Cypress Valley. The whole family will enjoy the outdoor experience of lodging in The Nest, which features two bedrooms and a kitchen. Drift off to sleep high above ground to the gentle sounds of the forest. Book your treehouse early, as they tend to get snatched up quickly.
Don’t miss: It’s not every day that you have the chance to swim in a cold, natural spring. Krause Springs is famous for its lush, green trees and chilly water, which makes it a perfect place to spend a hot summer day. With overnight camping, a man-made pool, a butterfly garden and 32 natural springs to explore, Krause Springs is a must see.
Spicewood, Texas
512/264-8880
cypressvalleycanopytours.com
Published May 2015
