Kangaroos might not be well known for their climbing ability, but you could be — depending on how you tackle the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden’s new Dornette Kanga’ Klimb Aerial Adventure Course.
This adventure course, located in Roo Valley, comes with a bird's-eye view of the zoo's kangaroo walkabout. So now, not only can you directly interact with the handful of red and grey 'roos in their enclosure, you can also spy on them as you tackle 58 different ropes course challenges.
[PHOTOS: Inside the Cincinnati Zoo's new interactive kangaroo walkabout]
“We’ve been waiting a long time for this day,” says Cincinnati Zoo director Thane Maynard in a release. “The course was actually completed last summer, but we couldn’t open it due to COVID-related staffing issues and restrictions. Visitors and employees have been eager to get on it! I tried it earlier this week and had a blast.”
With options for all skill levels, adventurers cross an elevated bridge where they'll be met by skilled guides, who will help you get into gear, offer safety instructions and provide helpful tips and encouragement. "Obstacles include swinging logs, plank walk, tight rope, Burma bridge, spider web, post hop and balance beam," says the zoo.
Portions of the course are also ADA accessible.
Kanga' Klimb is not included with general admission. Tickets are $16 for members and $19 for non-members. You must be at least 4 years old and under 250 pounds to participate. Make sure you dress in closed-toed hiking boots or sneakers and fitted clothing (no dresses or skirts) if you plan on climbing.
See full FAQs and guidelines on the Cincinnati Zoo website.
As of June 2, those fully vaccinated against the coronavirus no longer have to a wear mask at the zoo; unvaccinated guests do. Masks will continue to be necessary in situations where there is close contact between humans and animals until animals are vaccinated.
In addition to lifting mask regulations, the Cincinnati Zoo no longer requires members to make a reservation to visit. General admission tickets still require reservations.
Cincinnati Zoo, 3400 Vine St., Avondale, cincinnatizoo.org.
