General Manager at Go Ape Chicago
Meet Catlyn Stevenson, our General Manager at Go Ape Chicago. Catlyn started her Go Ape journey as an Adventure Guide, eventually becoming an Assistant Manager at Go Ape Chicago, and now leading the charge! Catlyn has been with Go Ape for 7 years and has been an amazing leader every step of the way!
Getting to Know Catlyn
What drew you to work at Go Ape, and what’s kept you here?
I was 20 years old when I applied looking for a fun job where I could meet new people and friends, and thats EXACTLY what has kept me here, Go Ape is such a unique place to be and work!
What’s one thing about your job that would surprise people who’ve never worked here?
Our Job is VERY different from most jobs, you will never be in one spot all day. You will see smiles, hear laughs and be involved in creating memories for all ages.
Your Go Ape Story
What’s your most memorable moment working here?
Training is the most memorable for me, how it all started. Being excited but nervous is the kicker there.
Our staff celebrations that we have are fun too. We do the best we can to celebrate employee of the month, birthdays and accomplished guests.
Have you ever been nervous or challenged by the course yourself? What happened?
OH YES! Our Tarzan Swing on site 5 gets me every time… 7 years later!!!
What’s the best reaction you’ve seen from a guest conquering their fears?
The pure happiness and even tears of joy that I have seen from guests with their families has even made me teary eyed at times. It is so great to celebrate someone who accomplished our course.
The Personal Side
When you’re not at Go Ape, what adventure are you most likely on?
Being outdoors for work has made me appreciate being inside and relaxing! I do enjoy cooking, baking and playing video games!
What’s your go-to song or playlist for getting energized before a climb?
Mostly on the drive to Go Ape I like to listen to R&B-Rap music. Its a chill vibe with calm beats that has a motivational push to it.
If you could take one celebrity or public figure through the Go Ape course, who would it be and why?
I would take a sports player like someone from the NFL or MLB!!! I would want to see how they navigate our treetop adventure course!
Go Ape Philosophy
How do you see Go Ape making a difference in people’s lives beyond just a fun day out?
Go Ape is a place that you can create an adventure daily, weekly, monthly, or yearly. Individuals or families can choose their adventure. As young kids grow they have access to more activities too.
What would you tell someone who’s on the fence about trying Go Ape for the first time?
Go Ape is a great place to start, it is safe and we are always there. We are in the forest, not the jungle. Its not as high up in the trees as it sounds, its not like a skyscraper building or airplane!!!!
Ready to Go Ape?
If you’ve been searching for outdoor adventures, ropes courses near me, or what to expect from a zipline experience, this is your sign to book it. With high-flying ziplines, scenic forest views, and plenty of laughs in between, Go Ape isn’t just a one-day activity – it’s a full-on experience.
About Go Ape
Go Ape believes in creating spaces where people of all ages and abilities can escape the ordinary, rediscover their courage, and embrace the thrill of discovery. Here, in the treetops or along scenic paths, lifelong bonds are forged, confidence is renewed, and laughter echoes through the canopy. Go Ape isn’t just an activity; it’s a movement to reconnect with what truly matters: people, place, and purpose.
Go Ape isn’t just an activity. It’s a movement to reconnect with what truly matters: people, place, and purpose. Let’s rise above together. Visit goape.com.
Find Your Go Ape location:
- Arlington-Dallas, Texas
- Plano, Texas
- Houston-Sugarland, Texas
- Williamsburg, Virginia
- Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina
- Memphis, Tennessee
- Bear, Delaware
- Chicago, Illinois
- Indianapolis, Indiana
- Ocean City, Maryland
- Rockville, Maryland
- Kansas City, Missouri
- St. Louis, Missouri
- Omaha-Lincoln, Nebraska
- Cleveland, Ohio
- Springfield, Virginia (Washington DC)