The biggest thrill in wine country

Unforgettable zipline & kayak tours with Margarita Adventures

The adults say it’s fun, the kids call it cool and everyone agrees that it’s an unforgettable experience—welcome to Margarita Adventures zipline canopy tours, the biggest thrill in wine country.

Indeed, these one-of-a-kind zipline tours have quickly emerged as one of the Central Coast’s most celebrated visitor attractions, earning praise from Yahoo Travel, Frommer’s, Sunset Magazine, AOL Travel and many others.

And new for 2014 is the addition of a fifth zipline called the Pinot Express, an epic 1,800-foot aerial ride that swoops right over a Pinot Noir vineyard on the historic Santa Margarita Ranch in the Paso Robles wine country. 

“There’s nothing else like it in the zipline world,” says Karl Wittstrom, proprietor of Margarita Adventures. “It feels like you can almost touch the tops of the vines on your way down.”

Big Thrills, Historic Roots

Margarita Adventures’ zipline canopy tours begin in the quaint town of Santa Margarita with a guided shuttle ride into the heart of the ruggedly beautiful Santa Margarita Ranch, surrounded by forests, vineyards and mountains. 

The tours last 2.5 hours and include five distinct ziplines spanning more than 4,500 combined feet, including everything from a panoramic 1,200-foot valley crossing to a speedy journey right through an archway of companion oak trees. 

Along the way, guests learn about Santa Margarita Ranch’s abundant wildlife, remarkable ecology, sustainable winegrowing practices and historic role as part of California’s famed Mission Trail. At the end of the tour, guests may also enjoy an optional wine tasting at the affiliated Ancient Peaks Winery, featuring wines grown on the ranch. 

“This is where education and adventure meet,” says Wittstrom. “The ziplines may be the main attraction, but our larger mission is to promote an appreciation for nature and to provide unique insights into California history.” 

Fly High—or Paddle Low

Starting this year, Margarita Adventures is also offering guided kayaking tours of nearby Santa Margarita Lake, which include frequent wildlife sightings of local deer, hawks, falcons and even bald eagles. 

“The kayaking tours get your blood pumping in a different way than the ziplines,” says Wittstrom. “They’re good exercise, and they provide a more reflective and relaxing way to soak up the natural surroundings.” 

So by land, air and water, Margarita Adventures is set to take you on a wine country adventure like no other. 

Margarita Adventures zipline canopy tours are available Thursday through Monday and begin in downtown Santa Margarita at 22720 El Camino Real. Reservations can be made by calling (805) 438-3120 or at margarita-adventures.com. Ask about kayaking, corporate, photo and private group tours.

Zip Line Lowdown

• Tours last about 2.5 hours
• Wear closed-toe shoes and weather-appropriate clothing – shorts and sunglasses are okay!
• Long hair needs to be tied back
• Children 40-75 pounds must ride tandem with adult
• Maximum weight limit is 275 pounds
• Private tours available
• Discount for Ancient Peaks wine club members