How to Build a Backyard Zip Line

Use wire rope to construct a backyard zip line.

Zip lines have been around for some time; however, these outdoor thrill rides are enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Zip lines require that users hold onto a handle with their hands as they make their way down the length of a line. Found in outdoor adventure or obstacle-course settings, zip lines are finding their way into many backyards as part of at-home recreational areas. Constructing a backyard zip line involves careful planning so that the rigging is safely installed.

Things You'll Need

• Wire rope
• Garden hose
• Adjustable wrench
• Wire cutters
• Wire rope clamps
• Turnbuckle
• Zip-line trolley
• Safety clip
• Handle

Instructions

1. Determine which two trees will serve as anchor points for the zip line. Clear the area between the two points of other trees or limbs that could potentially interfere with using the zip line.

2. Cut two lengths of garden hose with a knife. Cut the hose lengths so that one will reach around the tree at the starting point and the other will reach around the tree at the finishing point of the zip line.

3. Feed one end of the wire rope through the garden hose that you cut for the tree at the starting point of the zip line. Pull 2 to 3 feet of rope through the hose length. Wrap the hose-covered rope around the tree.

4. Secure the free end of the wire to the main wire rope with wire rope clamps. Secure the clamps with an adjustable wrench and space them several inches apart.

5. Stretch the wire rope to the tree at the finishing point of the course. Feed the free end through the length of garden hose you cut for this tree. Pull the rope around the tree and secure it to the main wire rope length with three clamps. Tighten the clamps with an adjustable wrench.

6. Cut the wire rope with wire cutters 4 to 6 feet from the tree at the finishing point. Insert the free end of the rope extending from the tree at the finishing point through the eye of a turnbuckle. Pull the wire through the eye and wrap it around a wire thimble. Secure the wire rope around the thimble with three clamps.

7. Feed the free end of the wire rope extending from the tree at the beginning point through the eye in the opposite end of the turnbuckle. Pull the wire through the eye and around a wire thimble. Secure the free end of the wire to the main wire with clamps.

8. Turn the turnbuckle to adjust the slack from the line and make it taut. Raise the side of the zip line trolley and place the rollers on the wire rope. Close the side of the trolley and secure it with a safety clip. Attach a handlebar to the safety clip.

Tips & Warnings

• Use extreme care and caution when installing and using a zip line in order to prevent potential injury.

References

• Zipline Rider: Build a Zip Line
• Dangerously Fun: Zip Line

Resources

• Outdoor Fun Store: Zip Line Construction