Eager for some fresh air but not ready to tackle Boone’s hiking trails? There is no better destination than the local marvel Hawksnest Snow Tubing and Zipline. Known for its remarkable scenery and its fun outdoor activities, this is a must for vacationers and locals alike.
For decades, Hawksnest Snow Tubing and Zipline have been a beloved attraction with a strong reputation throughout the Boone area and beyond. It has changed a lot through the years, however, originally launching as a ski resort and even adding a golf course to the mix. These days, the focus is on tubing and ziplining, which the attraction handles remarkably well.
During winter visits, the excitement is a bit less scenic but no less memorable. Dozens of lanes ensure that all types of visitors are able to partake in snow tubing adventures. Magic carpet conveyor-style lifts easily bring visitors to the top of the tubing hills, which extend anywhere from 400 to 1,000 feet. With so many sizable hills, it’s easy to see why Hawksnest Snow Tubing and Zipline has earned the distinction of being the East Coast’s largest snow tubing park.
When the snow melts, the fun shifts to the sky, where thrill-seekers are treated not only to the joy of hurtling through the air but also, to an amazing view. Depending on the preferred zipline tour, it is possible to cruise at speeds of up to 35 miles per hour or even 50 miles per hour. The cables extend up to a full 2,000 feet, providing an experience that reflects the bird-inspired names of the tours: the Hawk and the Eagle. Swinging and suspension bridges add to the excitement, and friendly guides are happy to provide support every step of the way.
While the weather in Seven Devils is often mild, it’s nice to take a break inside from time to time. This is easily achieved at the onsite cafe, which serves plenty of tasty treats: cookies, pizza, pretzels, and mini donuts, to name a few. Hot drinks make it easy to warm up during the snow tubing season, although adult visitors may prefer to kick back with local craft beer.
The gift shop is always fun to browse, as it has an excellent collection of souvenirs. There are also practical items that can easily be purchased if forgotten at home: beanies and gloves, for example, are essential. Restrooms are available and should definitely be taken advantage of prior to the zipline tour.
No matter the weather, there is a lot to love about Hawksnest Snow Tubing and Zipline. Check out this adrenaline-oriented attraction to discover why it is the go-to destination for thrill seekers in Boone and beyond.
Insider Tips:
-Snow tubing is only available to children ages 3 and older. Even then, there are restrictions to keep in mind. Most importantly, children must ride with adults if they are unable to reach far enough with their legs to stop themselves at the bottom of the hill.
-The age guidelines for the zipline tour are even stricter: children must be 5 years or older and accompanied by an adult if under 12 years. There is no minimum weight requirement, however.
-Advanced reservations are strongly recommended, as Hawksnest’s tubing hills have been known to sell out during the weekend and especially on holidays. This process can be easily completed online, with confirmation emails displaying the session time and the number of tickets. With zipline tours, reservations are always required.
-Curious about the current conditions at Hawksnest Snow Tubing and Zipline? It’s always advisable to check out the local weather report, but the webcam is also helpful. This can be found on the official website, with webcams easily available throughout the year.