FAQ
What is an Eco-Tour?
An eco-tour is an educational experience that teaches people about the environment. Our guides educate our guests about the uniqueness of the Coastal Redwood eco-system and love sharing facts about the Forest.
What is ziplining?
Imagine soaring through the air amidst giant trees and experiencing nature from a different perspective. After strapping on a specially-designed 2-piece seat and chest harness, ziplining lets you zoom from platform-to-platform, high in the sky. Attached to your harness is a caribiner, a metal loop that secures you to a wheel on a cable that's strung from one tree to another. Together, this high-flying equipment allows you to glide effortlessly through the forest and take in the beauty of Northern California's Coastal Redwoods.
Are there any requirements or restrictions?
The canopy tour is designed for use by participants of average mobility and strength, and who are in reasonably good health, be at least 10 years old and weigh a minimum of 70 pounds up to a maximum of 250 pounds. You must be able to follow your Guide's simple directions, climb a 30 feet spiral staircase, and be willing to rappel down at the end of the tour—with your Guide's help, of course. Even though ziplining doesn't take much physical effort, we encourage you to consider your comfort level with heights and the number of ziplines on the tour—people with a serious fear of heights should not participate. In addition, ziplining is not for those with recent joint or bone injuries, heart conditions, or pregnant women.
How safe is ziplining?
All adventure activities done above the ground carry certain inherent risks. We have taken numerous steps to mitigate these risks. Our course was built to meet or exceed ACCT professional standards (www.acctinfo.org). Our Guides provide basic training, a thorough safety briefing, and a quick demonstration to introduce you to the world of ziplining. In flight training, you'll learn the basics of sitting in your harness and braking techniques while our Guides handle attaching your carabiners and trolleys to the ziplines. Your safety will be highly dependent on following your Guide's instructions and the procedures we teach you. Our trained staff inspect all equipment, landing platforms, and ziplines daily for your safety and confidence.
What if I've never done a zipline course before?
Don't worry—our experienced tour Guides have been trained to help new zippers become experts in no time. Your first zip will be "junior size" in height and length, to help you feel comfortable with the experience. Just follow your Guide's directions—you'll do fine.
What should I wear?
Wear comfortable clothes (but please no skirts or dresses), closed-toe shoes such as sneakers or hiking boots, and a t-shirt or work shirt to protect your body from the rubbing of the harness. Long hair should be pulled back in a pony tail and make sure you secure your glasses with a strap. Keep your pockets free of any sharp object, like keys or pens, and store your camera close to your body, not hanging from a strap. We'll provide the harness, the helmet, and the gloves. Please note that unless you follow these clothing safety Guidelines, you may not be allowed to zip.
Do you operate in the rain?
Yes, we operate rain or shine, since "zipping in the rain" can be fun and exhilarating if you are dressed appropriately. We recommend that you consider the following:
- Wear layers (we recommend that you don't wear cotton clothing as that will make you cold and will not shed moisture)
- Synthetic fleece or wool jackets and long underwear
- Rain Coats and Rain Pants work best. We sell ponchos at our gift shop
How does ziplining benefit the environment?
By unleashing a rider's natural sense of awe and wonder, and by presenting the natural environment in an entirely different way, ziplining helps people appreciate the environment and their stewardship for it. Ziplining doesn't harm the Redwoods or their surrounding environment in any way. Ziplines have been popular for years in many ecotourist locations worldwide.
When would you cancel a tour due to weather conditions?
We would cancel a tour due to severe weather conditions that might include high winds, lightning or intense rains. Sometimes these conditions occur in very short periods of time, therefore, tour cancelation is at the discretion of SCT Management. If your tour is canceled, SCT will make every effort to reschedule your tour at a time convenient for you.
How does ziplining benefit others?
For every tour we book, we contribute a day camp experience program for poor, oppressed, orphaned, at-risk, and HIV/AIDS-impacted children in South Africa. These programs have touched the lives of over 10,000 kids since 2002, helping the children and their families rise out of poverty by teaching them skills and teamwork.
We strive to provide a place of healing and hope for the New South Africa, where people are inspired to contribute towards the empowerment of all who are spiritually, socially, or economically challenged. Our mission is to create unity by bringing together children of all South African ethnic, cultural, and language backgrounds.
Your ziplining experience makes a difference.
When do I need to arrive for my tour?
We ask you arrive at least 30 minutes prior to your scheduled tour time. This will allow enough time and preparation for your ziplining experience. If you are late you may not be able to join your tour. Your tour and guide will leave as scheduled whether you are there or not. Please make sure to check current road conditions on local highways and account for slow travel on nearby country roads when planning your visit to Sonoma Canopy Tours.
Are reservations required?
Yes—tours fill up fast. Flights are filled on a first-come, first-serve basis. To reserve a tour, call 1-888-494-7868 or register here.
What if I'm late for my canopy tour?
No refunds are given for late arrivals. If you arrive late and we have to start your tour without you, we'll make every effort to put you on a later tour if there is availability. We ask you to arrive at least 30 minutes prior to your reserved tour time to allow for check-in and flight preparation.
Do your Guides accept tips?
Yes, while it's not required, it is very appreciated. We provide a Guide appreciation box where you may leave a tip for your Guide team.
How do I pay if I don't have a credit card?
Payment for your tour is usually made online with Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover through our secure payment site. If you do not have a credit card, you may send a check or money order, but payment must be received 7 days prior to your tour date.
What is the relationship of Sonoma Canopy Tours to Alliance Redwoods?
Sonoma Canopy Tours is a pre-scheduled program of Alliance Redwoods. This recreational activity is offered to both overnight and day-use guests. It encompasses both educational and spiritual objectives. Alliance Redwoods has a long history of environmental education programs to public and private schools students since the 1980s, and has facilitated zipline, high ropes, and challenge course elements since the 1970s. The Canopy Tour combines aspects of both experiences into this eco-tour.
What if I have more questions?
Feel free to call us between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM at 1-888-494-7868, or email us at info@sonomacanopytours.com
For your convenience, here's a list of Local Amenities, which includes restaurants, hotels, picnic areas, and camp grounds. |
