Highlining in Arizona

I will likely be spending some time in Arizona this summer, and I am looking for highlining beta, and maybe partners. I've heard there is an established line somewhere out in Queen Creek-- anyone know about this? There's a blog post by Faith Dickey about highlining at Mt. Lemon, but given the time of year I would prefer to go to a higher elevation. I have seen photos online of a line in Sedona, but without any info about the specific location. Also, if anyone has ideas of locations, I am interested in establishing new lines.

Hey Jonathan
Welcome to Zonie! There are quite a few established lines that I can think of. I am only mostly familiar with the Northern Arizona lines that have been established but do know of a few at Queen Creek. The QC lines are accessible and there are several different length available. They are not at high elevation and would likely be roaster during the next 6 months but Im sure possible. I think your best bet for these Central AZ lines is to contact Jared Marvel. He is running in the front of all of the high lining going on in that area. Find him on Facebook or on Instagrizzle. Just tell him your plan.

I am most familiar with the NAZ lines. There are many that can be found in Sedona but many require climbing two different features and can be involved with rigging, especially alone! It is also about to be scorching down there. I can give more specifics if you get psyched. The easiest lines that come to mind that are in Sedona would be near the Eraser Head and Arch Enemy (tons of sun exposure) or the T-Rex Spire line and of course, The Mace. All require climbing on the towers and some moderate but tricky rigging skills.

If you want to try a couple that are easy walk ups there is a line established at Slide Rock State Park in Oak Creek. The line hides up in 80 Proof Canyon. It is only about 15-30min from the car and has bolted anchors plus a piece or two of trad gear. Line is only about 60ft long and doesn't have a ton of exposure but it is fun and in a great place. There is also a line that is at the Waterfall Climbing area in Oak Creek. 2min from the car, bolted anchors and fun. 75ft long or so and you get to walk over Oak Creek! Fun! Plus if it hot you just go swim for a bit. Tons of shade in the late day.

Flagstaff also has a bunch of lines showing up. The most accessibly is the Thor Hammer lines that are at The Pit, a local sport climbing area. The lines are bolted but usually require bringing your own hangers for the bolts. There are 3 lines established from 30ft - 100' (??) or so. The lines sit pretty much right on top of the Bedrock Area. Easy access and good spot to walk. Decent exposure as well.

There are two lines established on Mount Elden in Flagstaff. The lines sit in Middle Elden Canyon. Easy access and have bolted set ups as well as basic static rigging. 100ft and 140' (??) or so... 30-45min from the car.

Likely the best location that I can think of in NorAZ is out at 'The End Of The World' which is solid hour drive out Woody Mountain Rd. There are several different lines that are bolted out there and the exposure and location is one of the best. Easy hiking from the car plus tons of free camping. I would vote as AZs best area for lines although I haven't been to the gap on Lemmon.

Ultimately the lines in AZ are sick! They are a bit complicated to find the first time but once you find them the rigging can be mostly easy. If you want to link up with other line monkeys here in AZ check out the Flagstaff Slacklining Group on Spacebook. They are quite active and they will be a good option for more specific beta. facebook.com/groups/3400641…

Wow I had no idea about the Highlines out here. Definitely interested in checking some of these out!

Thanks for the beta J! I had no idea there were so many options, I will definitely check them out. What is the approach for the line at the Waterfall area? I haven't climbed there (but want to), and from the MP page it sounds like the approach for the highline must be easier than the approach for the climbing. Is it the same parking spot?

Jonathan