Ride the Grafton SkyTour aerial lift for sweeping views of the Illinois and Mississippi Rivers, plus access to mountain coaster thrills and ziplines at Aerie's Resort. Perfect for all ages, this regional gem blends scenic calm with family-friendly adventure.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
15–20 minutes each way, unlimited rides with day pass
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels, including families and older adults
Wildlife
History
Grafton has long served as a strategic river crossing and trading post, with roots tracing back to early 19th-century river commerce.
Conservation
Aerie’s Resort collaborates with local conservation groups to minimize environmental impact and maintain the natural integrity of the river bluffs.
Aerie's Resort
Ride the Grafton SkyTour aerial lift for sweeping views of the Illinois and Mississippi Rivers, plus access to mountain coaster thrills and ziplines at Aerie's Resort. Perfect for all ages, this regional gem blends scenic calm with family-friendly adventure.
Aerie's Resort is a family-friendly adventure destination located in Grafton, Illinois. The resort operates Illinois' first alpine coaster — nearly 4,000 feet of track with seven hair-pin turns and eight waves — accessed via the SkyTour aerial lift. The SkyTour provides scenic rides with panoramic views of the Illinois and Mississippi Rivers and direct access to Aerie's restaurants, the Alpine Coaster, and the property ziplines.
Aerie's also offers guided UTV tours: 30-minute excursions in brand-new six-passenger Kawasaki Mule Pro-FXT vehicles that take guests across hills and hollows, through creek beds and past limestone formations where local wildlife sightings are common. Tours are led by trained staff who focus on safety and route familiarity, and the resort welcomes guests of all ages to enjoy the attractions. Public parking and visitor information available.
Alpine Coaster
Illinois' first
Nearly 4,000 feet of track
Location
Grafton, IL
Riverfront access and views
UTV Seating
6-passenger
Kawasaki Mule Pro-FXT vehicles
Tour Length
30 minutes
Guided UTV tour duration
Reserve SkyTour seats, Alpine Coaster rides, or a 30-minute guided UTV tour — check availability and safety guidelines before arrival.
Choose Your Seat Wisely
Open chairlifts offer unobstructed views, while gondolas provide weather protection—consider the season and wind when selecting.
Arrive Early for Best Views
Morning rides often feature clearer skies and softer light, ideal for photography and spotting wildlife along the rivers.
Book Alpine Coaster and Zipline Separately
These popular activities require separate tickets; plan ahead to secure your preferred time slots at Aerie's Resort.
Wear Layers
Temperatures can vary significantly between river level and hilltop; a light jacket or windbreaker is recommended year-round.
Water Bottle
Stay hydrated while enjoying all the resort’s activities, from riding the SkyTour to dining on the hilltop.
Windbreaker
Spring winds can be brisk on the lift; a lightweight jacket keeps you comfortable.
spring
Sun Protection
Sunscreen and a hat are important when riding in open chairs under the midday sun.
summer
Camera or Smartphone
Capture sweeping river views and seasonal colors from the unique vantage of the SkyTour.