9 Essential Tips for the Best Brainerd Zipline Tour (2025 Guide)
We put things on our bucket list for all kinds of reasons. To face fears, to challenge ourselves, for the adrenaline rush, to recapture our youth, and because it looks fun. I had going zip lining on my list. The nice folks at Minnesota Zip Line Adventures could help with their Brainerd Zipline Tour.
*Minnesota Zipline Adventures sponsored this adventure, but my opinions are my own.
My first mission was to find a partner in crime. My sister was the first person I thought of since we had done similar adventures growing up.
This was a little out of her comfort zone, but I convinced her we’d be just fine. I started to get concerned that she was getting cold feet when I texted her the morning of and she didn’t respond. Thankfully she showed up on time and we were off.
The Brainerd Zipline Tour Tips
Brainerd Zipline Tours is run by the same company behind Kerfoot Canopy Tour in Henderson, Minnesota. The Kerfoot location also offers a ropes course for younger thrill-seekers who may not be ready for the full experience.
Get Ready for Ground School
Before you fly, you attend ground school. They provide this training before every tour. It’s thorough and confidence-building.
They have a practice line a few feet off the ground. The guides cover maneuvers and hand signals. Then you try it out. Once you’re comfortable, you move on to your first zip line.
Tip #1: Empty your pockets before getting into your harness.
The Brainerd Zip Line Adventure
The first run is always the worst because you don’t know what to expect. Once up there, I felt dizzy. It took me a minute to realize it was the tower swaying in the wind and not me. After watching the people ahead of me go, my fears faded.
My only worry was if I would remember how to brake at the end. I stepped to the edge, the guide checked my hand position, and I pushed off.
Below me were trees and an incredible view of Pillsbury State Forest and Gull Lake. It felt freeing and exhilarating.
My sister did not have the same easy start. She was last in our group and kept saying, “I can’t do this.”
The guide waited and encouraged her. I was already on the next platform and couldn’t help. After a few tries and cheers from the group, she did it. She made it to the platform with no trouble. After that, she was hooked.
Tip #2: Don’t rush the person who’s scared. Celebrate the small wins.
Safety
At no point did I feel unsafe. You are connected at all times with two connection points on platforms and on lines.
The guides never force you to do something you’re not comfortable with. Our group was supportive.
Even if asked, the guides will not push you off a platform. It’s your pace. The only pressure was telling our family we planned to zip line and not wanting to back out.
Neither of us wanted to return home and admit we chickened out.
Tip #3: Trust the guides. They do this every day.
The Free Fall
The course includes seven zip lines, a 65-foot suspension bridge, and a 50-foot controlled free-fall jump.
I did fine on the lines, but stepping off for the free fall was another story. After the demo, my sister sat it out.
It’s a controlled fall using a fan-and-magnet system. You feel a short drop, then it slows you to the ground.
On my first try, I froze. I backed away. After a few failed attempts, I finally stepped off. It was terrifying and amazing.
Tip #4: Face your fear once. You’ll talk about it for years.
Other Things to Know
Cost
Typical pricing runs about $75 to $99 per person as of 2025. Pricing can vary by day and season and may not include taxes or fees. Your tour includes all seven lines, the bridge, and the free-fall experience. Follow their Facebook page and email list for seasonal deals.
Getting There
The zipline facility is at Mount Ski Gull in the woods west of Brainerd. There’s parking on site. After check-in, you’ll shuttle by van to the course.
Getting to Brainerd can take longer on summer weekends and holidays. It took us twice as long as GPS predicted. Build in extra time if you aren’t staying nearby.
Tip #5: Pad your schedule by at least 30–60 minutes on busy weekends.
Who Can Zip Line?
Minimum age is typically 10. Weight range is about 70 to 250 pounds. Participants should be in good health and able to climb stairs and ladders. Check current requirements when you book.
What Should You Bring?
Wear closed-toe, closed-heel shoes. Dress for the weather. Make sure clothing covers any skin where the harness touches to avoid chafing.
No handheld cameras or phones are allowed during the tour. You’ll need both hands.
GoPros or action cameras are allowed with a helmet or head strap mount only. You can rent one on site or bring your own. Brainerd Zipline provides approved straps for guests bringing their own cameras.
Bring bug repellent with DEET. You’ll spend about 2.5 hours in the woods. Ticks and mosquitoes are common in season.
Tip #6: Get video. Watching your runs after is half the fun.
Tip #7: Treat your clothing with a permethrin soak to stop ticks and mosquitoes.
Other Things to Do Around the Brainerd Zipline
Other Attractions to Visit
Top nearby draws include Paul Bunyan Land and Brainerd International Raceway. Paul Bunyan Land features a giant Babe the Blue Ox and a talking Paul Bunyan. Brainerd International Raceway hosts events all summer, with the Lucas Oil Nationals in August.
For more adventures nearby, see: 38 Fun Things to Do in Brainerd, Minnesota
Where to Stay
If you’re staying overnight, the Brainerd Lakes area has many options, from classic lake resorts to family-friendly hotels.
Try the Grand View Lodge Spa and Golf Resort for a resort experience. For a traditional hotel with a waterpark, check out the Holiday Inn Express in Brainerd/Baxter.
Campers will love Crow Wing State Park a few miles south of the zipline.
Tip #8: Stay nearby to avoid traffic stress and enjoy more activities.
Would You Do It?
I’m already checking my calendar to go again. It was one of my favorite trips and a top zip line tour in Minnesota.
Seasonal specials pop up often, including fall color tours over the canopy. Check the Brainerd Zipline booking page for current offerings. Moonlight or evening tours may be offered seasonally; availability can change year to year.
They also operate Kerfoot Canopy Tour in Henderson, which is closer to the Twin Cities and offers winter tours on select dates, weather permitting. If you want an unforgettable Minnesota adventure, add zip lining to your list.
Tip #9: Book online in advance, especially for weekends and peak fall color dates.
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