Riding the Volcano: Mt. Bachelor’s Triple-Stage Zipline From 7,800 Feet
The Northwest’s steepest, highest-elevation dual zipline—three stages, 1,400 feet of vertical drop, pure Cascades energy.
The wind at 7,800 feet has a way of announcing itself. It pawed at our jackets, tugged our nerves, and whispered a dare from the flanks of a sleeping volcano: step off, lean in, let gravity do its work. Clipped to the first line above the treeline at Mt. Bachelor’s Pine Marten, the Cascades spread into a blue sawtooth in every direction. The mountain didn’t so much loom as invite—broad-shouldered, snow-etched even in high summer, sending you out over a country of lava and lodgepole with one decisive swing into space.
Trail Wisdom
Dress for altitude swings
Temperatures can be 10–20°F cooler at 7,800 feet than in Bend. Wear breathable layers and a wind-resistant outer shell.
Closed-toe shoes only
Traction matters on platforms and approaches. Sneakers or light hikers beat sandals every time.
Hydrate early, ride early
Altitude and afternoon winds can sap energy. Drink water before you arrive and book morning slots when possible.
Secure your small items
Use straps for sunglasses and keep phones zipped away—dropped items are often unrecoverable on the slopes.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Late-day light from the final platform for warm-glow Cascade views
- •Pullout viewpoints along the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway for post-ride photos of Bachelor and the Sisters
Wildlife
Clark’s nutcracker, Mule deer
Conservation Note
You’re in Deschutes National Forest—pack out all trash, respect wildlife, and stay on designated paths around platforms to protect fragile alpine soils.
Mt. Bachelor is a young stratovolcano in the Cascade Arc; the ski area helped pivot Bend from timber to outdoor recreation in the late 20th century.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Cooler temps, Clear morning air
Challenges: Lingering snow, Limited operations
Early season can bring patchy snow and chilly winds on the upper mountain. Check operating dates; spring hours may vary.
summer
Best for: Consistent operations, Big mountain views
Challenges: Afternoon winds, High UV exposure
Peak season for the zipline with long daylight and dry trails. Book morning runs to avoid wind holds and bring sun protection.
fall
Best for: Crisp visibility, Thinner crowds
Challenges: Variable weather, Shorter days
Autumn offers sharp views and quiet platforms, but storms can move fast. Layer up and monitor forecast updates.
winter
Best for: Snowy scenery (off-zip season), Ski resort vibe
Challenges: Zipline typically closed, Cold and storms
The zipline generally pauses for ski season. Visit for skiing and snowboarding, and return in summer for flights over the slopes.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Wind-resistant layerEssential
A light shell keeps the platform breeze and high-elevation gusts from chilling you between spans.
Closed-toe shoes with good treadEssential
Secure footing on wooden platforms and gravel paths improves safety and comfort.
Sunglasses with retainer strap
Protect your eyes from glare at altitude and keep glasses secure while you zip.
Hydration bottle
Drink before and after your tour to counter dry mountain air and altitude.
Common Questions
How long does the Mt. Bachelor zipline experience take?
Plan for about 2 hours, including gear-up, safety briefing, and three progressive zipline spans.
What are the age, height, and weight requirements?
Riders must be at least 10 years old, 48 inches tall, and 50–260 pounds. Ages 10–15 must be accompanied by an adult and able to participate independently.
Do I control my speed on the zipline?
Yes. Each rider uses a self-controlled braking trolley, with instruction provided before the first span.
What should I wear?
Dress in layers suitable for mountain weather and wear closed-toe shoes with good traction. Avoid loose items that can fall during the ride.
Is the zipline open year-round?
Operations typically run in summer and early fall. The zipline usually pauses during ski season—check the latest schedule before booking.
Can I bring my phone or camera?
Yes, but secure it in a zipped pocket or use a wrist strap. Dropped items are difficult to recover on the mountain.
What to Pack
Light wind shell for chilly platforms; closed-toe shoes with grip for secure footing; sunglasses with a retainer to guard against the breeze; water bottle to pre-hydrate before your tour.
Did You Know
Mt. Bachelor is part of the Cascade Volcanic Arc and is considered geologically young, with many of its lava flows dating to the late Pleistocene and Holocene epochs.
Quick Travel Tips
Book morning slots to avoid afternoon winds; plan extra time for the scenic drive along Cascade Lakes Highway; bring layers—mountain temps can be much cooler than in Bend; check operating status day-of, as high winds can prompt holds.
Local Flavor
Refuel in Bend: grab a pint at Crux Fermentation Project at sunset, tacos and Thai-fusion at Spork, or wood-fired pies at Jackson’s Corner. For a low-key post-ride treat, Sparrow Bakery’s Ocean Rolls are a local rite of passage.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Redmond (RDM), ~30 miles from Bend. Trailhead/lift: Pine Marten at Mt. Bachelor, ~22 miles (35–45 minutes) from downtown Bend via Cascade Lakes Hwy. Cell service: Spotty on-mountain; stronger at the base area. Permits: No forest permit for the zipline; advance booking required; parking free in summer at West Village/Pine Marten.
Sustainability Note
You’re zipping over sensitive alpine and subalpine terrain—stay on built paths near platforms, keep noise down around wildlife, and pack out everything you bring.
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