The Pinot Express

Zipline in San Luis Obispo County

12.08.2015
Greater California
Relaxing

Some wine flights are just more exciting than others. Add some ho-ho-holy smokes to your next sip and swirl with one of wine country's biggest thrills: zip-lining high above the vineyards on the flanks of the Santa Lucia Mountains. Margarita Adventures (as in Santa Margarita, not the drink) will fly you across five epic ziplines in Paso Robles' historic Santa Margarita Ranch. Meet your guide, catch a shuttle out to the ranch, and after driving up to a high point with wide views, get geared up before taking your first zip—a doozey nicknamed "The Renegade." Soar 1,200 feet across a grass valley into an oak forest. After conquering that, "The Woodlander," "Hilltopper," and "Archway" seem like child's play in the most fun way, including getting a good running start for one. Then comes the grand finale: the "Pinot Express," aka the mother lode, reached by a quarter-mile switchback hike up a hill. Zoom 1,800 feet back to earth. Then pile back into the shuttle for some wine tasting at Ancient Peaks Winery, where the reds are really tasty. No buzz kill here. Zippity-sippity—do!

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories
  1. Woman with her arms outstretched to the rolling hills scenery while on a rock outcrop at Barnabe Peak in Samuel P Taylor Sate Park in Marin

    Barnabe Bonanza

    Sure, there are higher mountains in Marin (Mount Tam) and easier ascents (Mount Burdell), but is there a more expansive North Bay view? Barnabe Peak in Samuel P. Taylor State Park offers a glorious panorama including Mount Tam, Mount Diablo, and Mount St. Helena.

    View

  2. Tamtastic Sunset

    Sure, the East Peak of Mount Tam is absolutely spectacular at sunset, but some magic-hour enthusiasts head to a nearby spot, Trojan Point, for a little more personal space in their panoramic viewings.

    View
  3. Hiker on the SCA trail in Marin Headlands with view of the Golden Gate Bridge

    Headlands Over Heels

    People come from all over the world to get a glimpse of the Golden Gate Bridge. Get a dramatic and novel view of the bridge without all the people on this moderate 6-mile hike in the Marin Headlands.

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. Woman hiking the San Onofre Bluffs Loop Trail to San Onofre State Beach in San Diego County

    Bluffing Good!

    Lovely coastline, beautiful beaches, unique geological history, and picturesque sandstone cliffs with limited foot traffic in San Diego County? Head to San Onofre State Beach and the 5-mile San Onofre Bluffs Loop Trail.

    View

  2. Can We Get a Whoop Whoop!

    City, mountain, and ocean views all in one hike? Whoop whoop! It’s no surprise the the Kenter Fire Road and Whoop-de-Doos Trail (a combo of fire road and singletrack) is a favorite among local mountain bikers and hikers alike.

    View

  3. The Big Chill

    In LA, finding a place to chill can be the ultimate flex. So flex, in Franklin Canyon! This unexpected oasis has plenty of shade, cool lake breezes, and ample picnicking spots. Enjoy it on an easy-going 1-mile stroll along its reservoir and duck pond.

    View