How to Conquer your Fear of Heights

There are lots of exciting experiences you can enjoy on a shore excursion in Alaska, from whale watching and thrilling river rafting adventures to ziplining. In fact, arguably the most unforgettable way to experience the rainforest is to soar through the trees on a zipline tour, feeling as if you’re flying while getting a true bird’s-eye view of the incredible world below and all around you.

Remember when you were a kid and dreamed like you’re were Superman? This is the activity that can help make that fantasy come true. There’s nothing like the feeling of flight while ziplining among the lush Alaskan rainforest, appreciating nature from a whole new perspective.

Sounds amazing, doesn’t it?!

You’re craving a new kind of adventure, but suddenly a thought creeps into your mind. “What if I’m afraid of heights?” That’s perfectly normal, as many people face similar fears. Taking them head on by trying ziplining for the first time, you may start off nervous but within seconds that adrenaline rush and the striking beauty of your surroundings is sure to wipe the fear away.

If that isn’t enough comfort for you, there are multiple steps you can take that will help you feel comfortable when you embark on that first ride.

Read Up About the Safety of Ziplining

You’re not going to be strapped in and pushed off without a safety briefing. You’ll be met with knowledgeable, friendly staff who will provide you with all the necessary gear and safety briefings. You’ll even get to try a practice run first just to make sure you’re comfortable before embarking on the zipline course.

While ziplining is something both first-timers and the long experienced can enjoy, there are strict rules in place to make sure guests enjoy a safe run. Guides are there to make sure everyone is safe and has a good time. They’ll offer gentle encouragement, answer questions and gauge your experience level. There’s no hand braking required on the course, which means you don’t have to worry about anything but having fun. Just sit back, zip and let the experts handle all the equipment, keeping you safe.

Watch the Smiles on the Faces of Those Who Go First

Once you see how much fun other riders have had, you’ll probably start feeling much better about it. Hang back and observe. If you still find yourself nervous, remember that it’s okay to be afraid – this is your opportunity to face those fears. Once it’s all said and done, you’ll probably wish you’d done it much sooner. If you need to, practice deep breathing while envisioning yourself beaming with confidence at the end of the ride. Count to five for each inhale and exhale, slowly breathing some of the world’s, cleanest, freshest air.

Let Your Guides and Fellow Riders Help

Let your guides know that you’re feeling nervous and they’ll help you feel more comfortable. You can talk to other guests that have gone before too, who are likely to tell you how amazing the experience is. At least one is likely to share that they felt just like you do at one point, but managed to push their limits and conquer their fears with no regrets. As these excursions tend to draw people from across the globe, you might even make a new friend to visit on your next travel adventure.

Focus on the Scenery

As you soar through the trees, focus on the beautiful scenery – think about how lucky you are to be immersed in one of the planet’s rarest ecosystems. America’s largest national forest covers 17 million acres and it’s still much the same as it was centuries ago, rising majestically in a land of countless bald eagles, bears that grow fat on salmon and 800-year-old trees that stand silent over timeless beauty.

We can just about guarantee that years from now you’ll look back on this triumphant day and recall conquering your fear of heights by ziplining in one of the world’s most breathtaking wilderness destinations!