Q&A: How to build a zip line in my backyard?

by Chris Devers

Question by ♥נєηηу ℓαυgнσυтℓσυ∂♥: How to build a zip line in my backyard?
Hi, i’ve been looking to build a zip line, but im not sure of all the materials i would need. i’ve been looking in pre made zip line kits, but its cheaper to get the materials yourself. what all would i need? I know you need steel cable, a trolley, and a harness. anything else i need to build a SAFE zip line?

thanks!

Best answer:

Answer by JC
To make it is “safe” you need to:

ensure you do not exceed the length recommended for the rated for the “strength” of the cable;

make the decline very gradual to prevent too much speed on the ride down;

secure your ends so they CANNOT come loose;

keep the tension on the cable tight enough to keep feet off the ground while zipping, but not so taught that there is no uphill ride at the end to slow the person down;

have a safe secure platform from which to fasten the line;

ensure there are no obstacles in the path;

try to remove obstacles below the route of the path to avoid serious bodily injury in the event of any failure, in other words, if they fall off anywhere along the path, you do not want them to fall on something that will make it worse; and,

make the landing end low enough to easily remove the rider and lower them to the ground safely.

Give your answer to this question below!