Try Zip Lining, Explore Ruins And Trails All At This One Iowa Park
By Ben Jones|Published April 30, 2021
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Ben Jones
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Ben Jones is at heart an adventurer who delights in inspiring others. A former reporter and photojournalist, he explored towns large and small as a Wisconsin correspondent for USA Today. He later became a lead photographer and senior copywriter for an award-winning destination marketing agency, before founding Boldland Creative, a company that produces photography, video, and other content for travel destinations. Jones has completed photography and content projects in more than 15 states and when he’s not looking through a camera or at his Macbook you’ll find him exploring the world’s lakes and forests.
A Dubuque attraction delivers it all: thrills, scenery and a bit of history. Sky Tours Zipline is an experience like no other – it’s a chance to not only experience nature from a new perspective, but also tour an area that was once one of Iowa’s great parks. It’s a high-velocity, high-altitude ride you won’t forget.
Grab your helmet and hang on: here’s what you need to know about Sky Tours Zipline.
The zip line is located on the north side of Dubuque at YMCA Union Park Camp. The area's terrain is perfect for a zip line course.
The tour will take you on a 2-hour guided experience of historic Union Park. It includes nine zip lines, ranging in length from 300-1,000 feet. At times, you'll soar 75 feet above the ground.
In the late 1800s and early 1900s, Union Park was a major attraction, featuring pools, fountains, dance halls, band pavilions, a wooden roller coaster and a theater venue that could accommodate 6,500 people. It also showcased a new technological development: electricity.
But in 1919 a devastating storm and flood hit, destroying much of the park. It never recovered and finally closed for good in 1934. While this was once a manicured park, nature has completely taken over.
Today, you can follow old paths in the park and see some old ruins, including the remains of a swimming pool and a theater. Although nature has overtaken the old park, if you look closely you'll see signs of what was once here, like this part from the roller coaster.
You don’t need any special talents to enjoy the zipline experience. It’s a great activity for families, corporate teams and groups of friends. Riders must be between 70 and 270 pounds. Be sure to wear closed-toe shoes (no sandals) and remove jewelry before the tour. Looking for more Iowa thrills? Hare are some more outdoor adventures you might enjoy.
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