If the thought of ziplining makes your heart race—not from excitement, but from fear—you’re not alone. Many people experience a fear of heights, also known as acrophobia, which can make the idea of stepping off a platform high above the ground feel overwhelming.
But here’s the good news: you can overcome your fear and fully enjoy the thrill of ziplining! With the right mindset, preparation, and a few confidence-building techniques, you’ll be soaring through the sky before you know it.
In this guide, we’ll explore why ziplining is a great way to conquer your fear of heights, plus practical tips to help you build confidence and have an unforgettable adventure.
Why Ziplining Is One of the Best Ways to Overcome a Fear of Heights
If you’re afraid of heights, ziplining might seem like an extreme challenge. However, it’s actually one of the safest and most controlled ways to face your fear. Here’s why:
✅ You’re Secured in a Harness – Unlike free climbing or skydiving, ziplining doesn’t require you to balance or support yourself at high altitudes. A professional harness and safety system keep you secure the entire time.
✅ Gradual Exposure Helps Build Confidence – Many courses, like the Woods and Fins Courses at Broadmoor Soaring Adventure (book here), start with shorter, lower lines before progressing to longer, higher ones. This allows you to ease into the experience rather than diving in all at once. Additionally, you get to go through Ground School where you are hooked to a zipline mere feet from the ground.
✅ Minimal Physical Effort – Ziplining doesn’t require advanced athletic skills. Once you step off the platform, gravity does the work for you—all you have to do is enjoy the ride!
✅ You Won’t Feel Like You’re Falling – Unlike roller coasters, ziplining gives you a smooth, gliding sensation rather than a stomach-dropping free fall.
✅ Trained Guides Keep You Safe – Expert guides ensure that your harness and gear are properly secured and that you feel comfortable before taking off. Their encouragement can make all the difference!
How to Overcome Your Fear of Heights & Enjoy Ziplining
1. Understand That Fear is Normal
First, recognize that fear is a natural response to being high above the ground. It’s your brain’s way of trying to keep you safe. Instead of trying to eliminate your fear completely, focus on managing and reducing it so that it doesn’t control you.
2. Choose the Right Zipline Course
Not all zipline courses are the same. If you’re nervous, start with a course that builds confidence gradually. The Woods Course Ziplines at Broadmoor Soaring Adventure is a great choice because:
✔ It begins with shorter, lower ziplines before moving to higher ones.
✔ Expert guides are there to support and encourage you.
✔ The breathtaking views help shift your focus from fear to awe.
✔ The Fins Course has 2 suspension bridges which require effort to cross. The Woods Course is just ziplines!
👉 Learn more about the Woods Course Ziplines
3. Trust the Equipment and Safety Systems
Modern ziplining technology is incredibly safe. Before your tour begins, guides will inspect and double-check your harness, helmet, and trolley system to ensure everything is secure.
If you’re feeling nervous, ask your guide about the safety measures in place. Understanding how the equipment works and how secure you are can help ease anxiety. The Broadmoor Soaring Adventure courses go through daily inspections and more rigorous weekly inspections. Safety is our top priority.
4. Focus on Breathing & Relaxing Your Body
When we’re afraid, we tend to hold our breath and tense up. This only makes fear feel stronger. Instead, practice:
✅ Deep Breathing: Inhale slowly for 4 seconds, hold for 4 seconds, and exhale for 4 seconds.
✅ Relaxing Your Shoulders: Let go of tension in your neck and shoulders before stepping off the platform.
✅ Smiling: It may sound simple, but smiling actually tricks your brain into feeling happier and more relaxed.
5. Look at the Horizon, Not Straight Down
One of the biggest triggers for a fear of heights is looking directly down. Instead, keep your eyes on the horizon or the scenery around you. Focus on the beautiful mountains, forests, and waterfalls—not the ground below.
6. Take the Leap – Don’t Overthink It
Once you’re harnessed in and ready to go, trust the process and step off the platform without overanalyzing. The longer you hesitate, the more your fear can build up. Count to three, take a deep breath, and go for it! Another option is to ask your guide to hold your trolley while you lift your feet up. The guide can let go of the trolley and off you go!
7. Ride with a Friend for Extra Support
If possible, bring along a supportive friend or family member who can encourage you. Watching them go first can help build your confidence, and knowing they’re cheering you on can make the experience more enjoyable.
8. Remind Yourself Why You’re Doing This
Overcoming a fear of heights isn’t just about ziplining—it’s about pushing past limitations and proving to yourself that you’re capable of more than you think. Imagine how accomplished you’ll feel when you step off that last platform!
What to Expect on Broadmoor Soaring Adventure’s Ziplines
If you’re ready to take the leap, Broadmoor Soaring Adventures is one of the best places to conquer your fear of heights. Here’s what you’ll experience:
✔ Two different courses with 5 Ziplines each
✔ Two Suspension Bridges over stunning canyons (Fins Course only)
✔ A 180-Foot Controlled Rappel (Fins Course only)
✔ Unparalleled Views of Seven Falls & South Cheyenne Canyon
✔ Experienced Guides who love to help everyone overcome fears
Why It’s Great for Nervous Beginners:
✅ Starts Low & Builds Up Gradually
✅ Highly Trained, Encouraging Guides
✅ Breathtaking Scenery That Distracts from Fear
👉 Book Your Zipline Adventure & Face Your Fears!
Final Thoughts: You CAN Do This!
Facing your fear of heights can be intimidating, but ziplining is one of the safest and most fun ways to push past that fear. By preparing mentally, focusing on your breathing, and trusting the guides, you’ll soon find yourself soaring through the sky with confidence and excitement.
So take a deep breath, step off the platform, and experience the thrill of ziplining in Colorado Springs. You might just find that heights aren’t as scary as you once thought—they’re actually pretty amazing!
Ready to take the leap? 👉 Book Your Zipline Adventure Today!
