How’s this for a thrilling thing to do on the Swan River?! Far more exciting than a stroll around the river, Matagarup Zip+Climb in Burswood is a brilliant idea for a special birthday or even just to tick something off your bucket list. The striking white bridge that arches over the Swan River, near Optus Stadium, isn’t just impressive to look at – you can climb it. There are three main experiences to choose from Zip+Climb (full adventure), Express Zip (shorter climb) or the Bridge Climb (no zip line).
After being kitted out in a harness and helmet, you follow your guide up a series of 314 steep steps and angled ladder sections. It’s a steady climb, with lots of chances to pause and catch your breath (and admire those epic views back to the city and Optus Stadium). There’s commentary from the friendly guides with fun facts along the way and stories about the bridge’s design, the Matagarup area and the Swan River. There’s plenty of encouragement for nervous climbers too.
Weave your way up and through the bridge’s steel arches, under beams and through narrow sections to reach the Sky View platform, a glass-bottom lookout 72 metres above the river. At the top, you’re rewarded with a 360-degree outlook over the Swan River, Stadium Park, and to the city skyline.
The zip back down is done in pairs. The 400m dual zipline, reaching speeds of up to 75km is an absolute rush. You’re securely clipped in, and you can go gently or race. The grandkids will think you’re the coolest nana or pop in Perth.
Zip+Climb is surprisingly doable for fit, mobile older adults. Good shoes are a must, as well as a moderate level of fitness. It’s worth reading the health and fitness information on the website beforehand if you have any medical concerns about steep climbs or heights. There is a bit of a jolt when you’re stopped by a big spring at the bottom of the zip line.
A fun day out for active grandparents and their grandkids (for children is 8 years and over, they must be at least 122cm tall and weigh 30kg and over), this experience makes a great birthday or Christmas present too – particularly if you like to gift memories, not things. The zip itself is over quickly, but you’ll get many photos and videos of the experience to keep, taken by the guides.
Pair it with a coffee or lunch at Mizzica Café opposite, and you have a very Perth outing that you’ll talk about for ages.
Find Zip+Climb at Northern End of Camfield Drive, Burswood Park. (near The Camfield).
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