Go Ape

We had an amazing time on the Freedom Park Go Ape course last Thursday afternoon! This was our second time at this course location, with the first time being four years ago. We love this course and we always make a point to try and schedule it when visiting the area! I tried to bring my sisters two years ago, but because of a bad storm it was cancelled as we got to the course and went in to check in. The customer service is always great and the course is awesome and challenging! I have brought over five different friends here with me now and they all beg to go back when they are able to go back to Williamsburg with me. I think we are planning to come back in a couple weeks on our June trip again! Our safety course instructor was Mike this past week and he did a fantastic job reviewing the safety procedures and introducing the techniques to our group member who had never done it before. He then remained nearby as we worked our way through the course and engaged us in conversation and encouraged a few of us to do the last Tarzan swing (which we all did!) Go Ape is one of my favorite things to do in Williamsburg and it’s one of the few places you are able to let loose and live life adventurously! Thank you to Mike and Go Ape for our great time last week, and we will see you all soon! :)

This place is amazing. We have gone every April vacation for the last three years. All employees have always been friendly and reassuring. Our first year my 13 year old was afraid to make the first «big jump», the female employee was so great and she did it!
Honestly this place it great!
Return customers get a t-​shirt or water bottle.

Extremely fun, challenging and a workout.
Who knew when we showed up for this treetop course that the next few days after I would be sore. We didn’t want to commit to a time so we opted to just show up and took the last spot of the day instead of signing up online. We went through training on how to connect to the tree course. If you rock climb this should be fairly easy. They use the same harnesses and carabiners.
There are 5 sections of the course, my fav thing being the Trazan swing, I could do that like 50 times and it not get old. The course really will take about 2 – 3 hours and is a great way to spend an afternoon. I thought it would be a great couples experience but since you can only have 1 person on an obstacle at a time, it kinda becomes a test of endurance. Also don’t wear clothes you don’t want to get dirty and maybe bring a spare set of clothes for the ride home. The landing area of the zipline is mulch, enough said.
If you are going with kids note there are extra instructions you have to learn.
Overall this was so much fun, I would do it again.

This experience at Go Ape in Williamsburg was my first time zip-​lining. I wasn’t sure what to expect but I knew the course was a kid-​friendly affair, so I knew it wouldn’t be too scary or difficult.
When you arrive you get a very thorough training on how to use the fasteners so that you are totally safe the entire time you’re traversing the course. After the first zip-​line stop, I felt confident that I knew what to do and never had to ask any questions.
The courses were very fun! Some of them fork off so you have a choice of easy or moderate, moderate or difficult, but the majority of them were very easy even though they were labeled «moderate». The Tarzan swing towards the end was fun and scary, and the very last zip-​line was the best because you get to travel all the way back to the cabin, so it is the longest. The whole course took my husband and I two hours.
I really enjoyed Go Ape and look forward to trying a more difficult course in the future now that I have this one under my belt. Thanks Go Ape!

Advanced apologies, this is going to sound really weird … GoApe, to me, is like making a fruit smoothie and mid-​way through the blend, you throw a piece of London Broil into the Vitamix and you’re left with a chunky, meaty, strange-​consistency of a beverage. It’s such a cool concept –and, honestly, I would know (here’s why):
(a) I go on about one to two cruises every other year. Whenever I cruise, I always make it strong point to do a ropes course/​zipline on AT LEAST one of the islands. I’ve ziplined through the Antiguan rainforest, La Romana in the Dominican Republic, and in a few other islands.
(b) There’s one BIG execution difference between GoApe and all of the other places that I’ve gone: You are ziplining from tree to tree. At GoApe, you are ziplining from a tree to the ground (onto mulch) –this doesn’t exactly negate a real classy (or safe) landing.
So, here’s my hang-​up: in the Caribbean, whenever you do this sort of thing, it goes totally different. You’ll go ziplining from a pedestal (high atop a tree) directly to another pedestal. You zipline in a straight line, with [maybe] a slight incline. You stay completely clean. There is an employee from pedestal to pedestal that slows you down as you approach your landing. It’s nice.
Why?
BECAUSE … you’re not worried about busting your a$$ on mulch the entire time you are going down.
That’s my hang-​up. At GoApe, you’re literally going from a pedestal at a hard incline down the the ground, causing you to skid all over the mulch. Because you are not allowed to put your hand on the zipline (like you can in the islands), you have little to no control of the way your body is moving as you go down the zipline … Which is weird and could be frightening. And, also, why this was probably my least favorite experience doing this sort of activity.
Remember, it’s not because I don’t like ropes courses or ziplining, in general. It’s really and truly because the execution of this could be so much smoother, making it funner and less stressful for everyone doing it.
Here’s the good news: they run through how to do the entire thing with you beforehand (and then they kind of leave you alone to do your own thing), you can choose the difficulty of your path, and they had this cool net-​thing that you can jump into (I totally forgot what it was called, but I’d never done it before). I was SO excited when GoApe put a challenge course here –but, honestly, I had a lot better of an experience when I was going tree to tree versus going tree to ground, back up tree, through tree, tree to ground, over and over again.

What a fun adventure date! The staff was very friendly, they took time to ensure all guests were properly trained on safety. They helped ease the minds of those that were a bit nervous of hanging in the trees. The course was amazing & more than we expected! Near the end of the course one in our party started getting tired & needed assistance & our guide was right there to help. Several of the courses had an «easy» & «challenging» route to get from platform to platform which was nice to choose what course you’d take. The final zip line was a lot of fun & great for photo ops! Take your camera & a pair of gloves is our recommendations. Water coolers are set up throughout the course.

Safety is paramount. The facility is unbelievably clean for it to be in the woods! I mean no trash whatsoever. Not even many bugs, really (how is that a thing?). I loved that it was connected to a preexisting park. When you drive up, you’re greeted by a cute little cabin. They get you to essentially sign your life away and then you wait to be taken to the course by an instructor.
Our instructor, Heather, did an amazing job. Even ignorant peasants like me understood how the whole thing worked by the end of her spiel. She watched us do a practice run on a ground level zip line. I went into this confident that Go Ape had done anything and everything possible to ensure that everyone that came on the adventure was going to leave with all 10 fingers, 10 toes and other appendages. Which was good because, let’s be honest, we all have way more life to live!
Heather watched us go through the first course which ended in a Tarzan swing and zip line. After that, we were free to roam on our own. Read: Kind of on our own. There are instructors roaming throughout the park and you’re never really far away from someone if you need help. My group of about 8 got through the everything in about 2ish hours.
With that being said, this is tiring and tough. I have a fear of heights and I have to admit, the experience was not the most pleasant for me. With every step I took up the ladders in those trees, I became more and more scared. Looking down was definitely a no-​no. The zip lining was my favorite. I was able to walk across planks and do the ropes pretty easily as well. But those Tarzan ropes were absolutely terrifying to me. I’m not going to let my personal fear make me give them a bad review… because it’s not their fault! Everything Go Ape had control over was A+.
One thing I will say is that I wish that there were ways that you could choose which parts of the obstacle you want to do. There were some times during the course that I just wanted to get down, but I couldn’t because you have to go through the entire thing. What if someone has a panic attack and physically can’t move? What if you’re just scared and ready to get down? Sucks for you!
Anyway, that’s the only thing I would change. Otherwise, a phenomenal escape for you daredevils out there!

I was a bit nervous going in, but I ultimately really enjoyed my experience here yesterday.
Though I’m not generally a big adventure-​seeker, I had been wanting to check this adventure course out for a long time. It’s mere minutes from my apartment. I run a lot at Freedom Park and have heard the screams of excitement (and maybe some fear) echoing from the woods.
When Xerxes announced a UYE here I had no choice but to do it! This was actually a surprisingly fun way to meet other Unilocalers for the first time. I’m definitely going to talk this up to my friends and hopefully convince them to do it with me.
The course itself offered some modest challenges, but I never felt unsafe. It was great that easier alternatives were offered. I loved the zip lines and the mulch finish (be prepared to get dirty). The instructors and staff were awesome– where do they find these people around here? Very thorough and knowledgeable.

So. Much. Fun.
A group of us went yesterday morning and the experience was great. Booking online was easy. You just don’t show up and expect to ape. Reserve your group on their website. Once you’re booked, all you do is show up and complete your basic waiver information. There’s about a 15 minute training course to ensure that you’re always safe and out of harms way. Follow the rules and you won’t die… at least not from falling 40 feet to the ground.
I found the adventure to be quite easy. There were some difficult parts, like the rings, but all were manageable tasks. I was actually a bit hesitant doing the tarzan launch but once in the air there’s no more fear. Zip lining was the most fun of everything. There was a minor crash and burn because I ended up being swung backwards. I definitely would like to experience more adventure parks like this in the future.
Tips:
— Bring gloves even if workout gloves.
— Wear high top shoes to minimize mulch in your shoes.
— Bring bug spray (although this was hardly an issue).
— Wear a shirt with sleeves. I recommend no wife beaters.
— If you’re ballsy, bring a selfie stick.

I don’t have any idea when this park came to life but it could use a little revamping. Don’t get me wrong, I had a great time but there are a few mechanics that could be improved and the possibility to create more obstacles for adventurers would be awesome. The mulch finding it’s way into your pants is a hassle but it’s kind of fun having that crash landing as you skid into the landing zone at the end the zipline. There has to be a way around that though, like wearing two pairs of pants and tucking your shirt in!
The setting of the park is gorgeous. The landscape is thick and rugged. It’s pretty deep in the forest so noise from the highway is not an issue with getting your mind right for the challenge ahead. Beware of the trees as you maneuver the course if you’re 6′ or taller.
The paths seem to leave people stranded as you scale the course. Difficulty levels changing mid course makes it easy for another group to cut yours off. I did not notice any quick escape route off of the platforms and it’s easy to forget to snap both of your lines in where you should. Some of the carribeaners/​hooks are not labeled with colors possibly because of friction over time.
The staff was knowledgeable and had first-​aid kits at the ready. They patrol the course as the brave adventurers climb higher and higher into the canopy of the forest.
The price for this trip into the treetops isn’t all that bad but since this place lacks options, I probably won’t be back unless they run some new lines.

Awesome. If you’re thinking about doing it, stop thinking and do it. Don’t be intimidated. Only wish there were more ziplines and fewer obstacles.

This was some of the most fun we’ve had in ages! My husband and I took our three teenagers and we all had a blast! This was great for getting the kids off the couch and out of their electronics for a day. The course was just challenging enough without being extremely difficult. Honestly, the hardest part was climbing the rope ladders. Well, besides just convincing yourself to step off the platform out into air when you are high up! Because you are hooked up to the cables, you can actually just «zip» past any obstacles which you feel you can’t do. Some of the areas where you have to walk across wobbly bridges had me worried that I might pull my back out so I would just sit in my harness and pull myself down the line which is just as much fun. We had a great day and we plan to do it again as soon as we can!

Go Ape was 3 hours of challenging fun! My husband and I did the Treetop Adventure Course which begins with a short safety training session and ends with a HUGE zip line! There were groups with kids who slowed our pace down a bit but it ended up being nice to just take our time and enjoy the experience. I recommend taking the more difficult routes on the course when they are offered because you’ll get ~5 more challenges to do and they are all completely fun! If you’re looking for a fun adventure I would definitely recommend Go Ape!

The experience was amazing… it challenged me on so many different levels. Remember: this is an extremely physical activity… don’t think this will be a walk in the park. The staff is VERY helpful and supportive all the way through the course. I highly recommend this to anyone looking for an adventure.

We had a blast. We took our daughter and her bff for her birthday and couldn’t have been more satisfied. The staff was friendly the environment was great. Definitely a do again.

Had a blast! Staff was very friendly and accommodating. Courses are fun and challenging. I’ve told all my friends about it and definitely recommend anyone going! I wish there was one closer to me! Go Ape! Come to Austin, TX!

I have gone several times now and each experience has been fabulous! The instructors are very calm and knowledgeable. I’m terrified of heights but had to do the course the first time I went because of my kids’ ages. So glad I did! I absolutely loved it — one of the best things I’ve ever done! I’ve taken all of my children now as well as several friends — both courses. There are enough trees to keep you shaded so even on the hottest days, you are comfortable. Water stations throughout the course keep you hydrated. I love that you have difficulty choices throughout the courses. Great for all ages. Can’t wait until next time!

Amazing place and so much fun
The instructors thoroughly prepare you and monitor you through the course. They don’t watch you like a hawk, but someone is always near
You go through 5 courses that get progressively harder… although there are times when you can take an easier option
DO NOT TAKE THESE ACTIVITES LIGHTLY! This is a demanding and physical place Some of the obstacles are near impossible for someone out of shape.
The zip lines and Tarzan jumps are the highlights for sure
My only complaint is that I wish someone would have suggested gloves. At the end my hands were pretty torn up
But overall excellent value for what you pay as you get a solid 2 – 2 ½ hours of fun
Can’t wait to go back, but next time, gloves for sure

When the warmth comes, the desire to do outdoor activities hits you! I have heard about this, driven pass the sign when going up and down 64, and finally have tried it out!
There is a ropes course and tree top ziplining that is offered at Go Ape. I tried the zip line adventure. And it was amazingly fun!
The experience:
Before you start, there is a thorough training that is provided. It’s about 15 – 30 minutes, but it doesn’t really feel that long unless your antsy to begin *cough* like me. After you are trained, you are free to start going through the course. Unfortunately, I did three of the zip lines before a thunderstorm rolled in. Their rule is like a pool, where they wait 30 minutes after the last roar of thunder or lightning before resuming. They are very vigilant and safe about the weather. Unfortunately, the storm lasted too long but they did offer a gift voucher or refund.
The service:
Everybody was extremely nice, and I was mentioning it the whole time. They really want to make you feel comfortable, welcomed and at home. Our trainer/​guide was great, very personable and kind. Everything about the service was great. They gave updates about the weather but never tried to sway you to stay if you felt it was best to try again another day.
Can’t wait to go back and go thorough the whole adventure!

This was a fun experience. I am afraid of heights, but found I was able to complete each of the obstacles even making my way on the «extreme» paths. The tarzan swing was both fun and terrifying, at least for myself — but I am glad I did it. There are 5 «stages» of areas where you climb up, make your way across the various treetop obstacles and then zipline back down to the ground — the last stage being the highest of the treetops and farthest of the ziplines. Overall I felt safe the entire time and built a bit of confidence about being at heights.
The price seemed fair, though we went through it quite quickly in about two hours. We never felt rushed and went through much of the course without anyone directly in front or behind us on the course. The staff was all very friendly and helpful. My only gripe would be that I would find it beneficial for them to provide protection for your hands. Also for the price, it might be nice to have them allow you to repeat certain sections if time permits.