Ziplining in Oracle provides cool getaway

“We actually have two different outdoor patios — one is completely open, one is completely enclosed. We also have our gift shop and kitchen in an air-conditioned area. … We tend to have a lot of people just come and find a shady spot and read a book in the peaceful atmosphere up here.” AZA also has team-building activities, gold panning and a fully stocked general store.

Any guest between 50 and 250 pounds may ride the zipline, and there’s no age limit. Dadow has taken a 6-year-old and once had a group that included a 93-year-old.

The attraction is just off Mount Lemmon Road, on the northeast side of the Catalina Mountains bordering the Sonoran and Chihuahuan deserts. Guides point out the different plant life and what blooms in the desert. Visitors may also see javelina, deer and coyotes. “It’s pretty neat to see what’s in our atmosphere up in the mountains.”

There are five ziplines making up the “EcoTour,” ranging in length from 400 to 1,500 feet. The last and longest run is a dual line, making it possible to zip alongside a friend, “which is pretty cool,” Dadow said.

Before the pandemic, AZA offered shorter zipline options. But as guests returned, they wanted to complete the full tour. Dadow encouraged interested people to visit ziparizona.com, see what days and times are available and make their selections. She recommends booking at least a week in advance; larger groups should book at least a couple of weeks in advance.

AZA also offers tours of the nearby Peppersauce Cave, with helmets and flashlights, including the history of the cave and points of interest. The tours are complete with experienced guides that take visitors through the natural limestone caverns. Groups explore the crooks and crannies by walking, climbing and crawling through natural passages. Reservations are required.

AZA’s restaurant, Peppersauce Kitchen, serves burgers and chicken tenders and seasonal food. It’s known for its homemade sauces and a changing menu that includes weekly specialty items. There are vegan and vegetarian options, and occasional “grill your own steak” nights.

You need not fear losing your keys or wallet as you zipline over the wilderness. AZA has lockers, with a key that clips to your harness. Digital phone pouches, which also clip to your harness, allow you to take pictures and video.

AZA is open Thursday through Sunday. Summer hours will be adjusted to begin and end sooner to help guests beat the heat.

No alcohol is sold and drinking is not permitted prior to any AZA-facilitated activity. But guests are welcome to “Bring Your Own Beer” and enjoy adult beverages after they’re off the zipline. “You can bring your drinks with you, order some lunch, sit on our beautiful balcony and watch your guests zipline,” Dadow said.

Visit ziparizona.com or call 520-308-9350.