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In 2005, Cypress Valley Canopy Tours in Spicewood, Texas, became the first zip line tour in the continental U.S. and rapidly gained national attention.

“Quickly we were approached by large firms like Busch Gardens who owned Sea World and other amusement parks to replicate our tour around the country,” said Amy Beilharz, co-founder along with her husband, David.

Cypress Valley began after David Beilharz traveled to Costa Rica and took a canopy tour. Wanting to showcase the natural beauty of the local Texas landscape in a safe way, Amy and David knew a tree top adventure was the answer.

“The zip line idea seemed like the perfect way to both share the creek ravine and teach people about the environment at the same time,” Amy Beilharz said.

The tree top resort features five zip lines, two sky bridges, five treehouses and a five-bedroom ranch for overnight stays. With advance notice, Cypress Valley can accommodate groups up to 200 for a full-day adventure.

Credit: Cypress Valley Canopy Tours

Fly through vast Texas Hill Country and learn about the local natural environment on a canopy tour. In a two-hour excursion, groups will begin the journey with zip lining. Try out the dual zip line and race other adventurers down the longest line, being 350 feet. After, test the group’s bravery with a walk across the skybridge.

Enjoy a relaxing picnic lunch at Cypress Valley’s private lake or clear water pool. Guests are welcome to take a dip to cool off after their exhilarating adventure.

Cypress Valley additionally stresses the importance of sustainable living and environmentalism.

“We live it with solar and hydro-electricity, water conservation and permaculture practices for land management,” Amy Beilharz said. “People who visit are naturally curious and we help them see how easy it is to play a bigger role in helping the environment.” Each canopy tour is led by two certified guides who will discuss the flora and fauna of the region while on tour. Guides can tailor tours to fit the group’s interest.

For more information call 512-264-8880 or go to cypressvalleycanopytours.com.