Ziplining on Long Island and Queens: Where to go

Bellmore resident Keith Annapolen has never been a fan of heights. But after gifting his 10-year-old grandson a zip lining experience at Jones Beach, he decided to take on the challenge himself.

“I didn’t pay attention to the height,” Annapolen, 70, said of the zip line, which starts on a platform 20 feet above the ground. “When you are up there, you are thinking about getting across.”

The 700-foot-long zip line, located at the center of Jones Beach State Park, is one of several that can be found on the Island and in Queens. Zip lining, which involves sliding through the air along a cable, is not for the faint of heart — but for anyone looking to get of their comfort zone, it can be a thrilling adventure.

“You don’t need to be a professional athlete, just have the ability to climb a few stairs (and) break a sweat,” said Kat Craats, 28, marketing manager of WildPlay Element Parks, which runs the Jones Beach site.

The zip line offers a unique view of Long Island’s shoreline and, she added, “You can see the New York City skyline on a good day.”

For those seeking to fly through a different landscape, The Adventure Park at Long Island in Wheatley Heights offers a variety of aerial obstacle courses, including zip lines that stretch across the park’s vast forested area.

Park manager Phil Insalaco, 43, noted that the park has been catering to an increasingly diverse group of climbers, from families with young children to seasoned thrill-seekers looking for their next adrenaline fix. “We walk people through four different skill levels, with a practice line,” he said.

For those unsure whether zip lines are the right fit for them, Alley Pond Park Adventure Course in Oakland Gardens, Queens, offers a free Sunday program on a first-come, first-served basis. The program runs through Oct. 27.

Annapolen said he successfully finished the Jones Beach course with help from his grandson, Parker, and the park’s staff.

“I would love to give it another try, maybe at another zip line park on Long Island,” he said.