Autumn at Go Ape means crisp air, colorful canopies, and endless adventure. Here’s your go-to guide for what to wear and pack so you can climb, zip, and laugh non-stop—no matter the weather.
What Shoes & Clothing Should You Wear?
- Opt for fully closed-toe, grippy shoes without any open spaces like trainers, sneakers, or hiking boots. Avoid crocs, sandals, or slip-ons.
- Choose moisture-wicking layers: base layer, insulating mid-layer, and a light waterproof outer layer – easy to adjust and remove layers as temperatures shift.
Should You Wear Gloves, Hats, or Accessories?
- Gloves are required (and available onsite) for grip and comfort.
- Be cautious with hats and sunglasses. They’re great for sun protection, but don’t bring them onto the course if they can fall off. Store extras in your car. Plus, the treetops are very shaded, making sunglasses and hats unnecessary. Enjoy nature’s natural sunshade!
- If you need to bring safety-critical items, like an EpiPen, on the course, keep it in a small bag that zips closed and fits closely to the body. All other bags are recommended to leave at home or in your car.
Jewelry & Hair: How To Avoid Snags
- Secure long hair (tie it back, preferably low) and remove or tape hoop/dangle earrings. The harnesses’ safety depends on a smooth fit so ensure you tape over or remove any jewelry.
What to Pack in Your Car (and What to Leave Behind)
- Must-bring items: a change of clothes (or get a sweet new shirt from Go Ape), a towel, gloves, bug spray, and sunscreen. Cameras are recommended to capture incredible views but ensure they’re securely attached and cannot fall to the ground (phone holders available at Go Ape).
- Leave extras behind: loose items like unsecured phones, sunglasses, or hats which can easily fall off mid-zip.
Why Fall Gear Needs Extra Thought
- Autumn’s cooler temps and leafy forest floor can mean sudden chills and hidden moisture; layering and warmth are key for mornings and evenings, and the ability to remove layers is necessary when the afternoons still heat up.
- Early fall is the perfect window: leaves are still vibrant, and adventure isn’t slowed by summer crowds or winter cold.
Location-Specific Tips for Your Go Ape Adventure
Bear, Delaware (Lums Pond State Park)
Combine your adventure with a peaceful lakeside campout. Lums Pond State Park has an on-site campground, letting you extend the excitement into the evening. Refuel afterward with fresh seafood at The Lobster Shack, just minutes from the course.
Chicago, Illinois (Bemis Woods Forest Preserves)
Looking for an adventure that’s close to the city? Go Ape at Bemis Woods offers a forest escape just south of Chicago – perfect for a nature-filled morning followed by a top-notch brunch.
Indianapolis, Indiana (Eagle Creek Park)
Nestled within a sprawling park ecosystem, this Go Ape location pairs well with a day of hiking, boating on Eagle Creek Lake, or wildlife watching for a full weekend of outdoor adventure.
Ocean City, Maryland (Frontier Town)
Stay a little longer and save more! Registered campers and Frontier Town guests receive exclusive discounts at Go Ape’s Zip Express and Treetop Journey courses.
Rockville, Maryland (Rock Creek Regional Park)
Make your trip multi-generational: complete your Go Ape zipline day with a tranquil walk around Lake Needwood or let the kids practice archery at the park’s nearby range.
Springfield, Virginia (South Run RECenter)
Beat the heat or extend the fun after dark with “Nights at Height”. This limited-time experience turns Go Ape’s aerial course into a nighttime adventure under the canopy glow.
Williamsburg, Virginia (Freedom Park)
Immerse yourself in both nature and history! Freedom Park sits just minutes from Colonial Williamsburg, making Go Ape the perfect adventure to balance out a day of historic exploration.
Now that you’re ready to gear up for an autumn adventure unlike any other, bookmark this guide, pack smart, and climb into the fall canopy at Go Ape. Share your adventure gear or looks with #GoApeFallGear on social media and in your reviews, and we might just feature you next!
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)