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ST. GEORGE — For the next few weeks, people in St. George have the chance to do something they may not have ever done before: go down a zip line.
"There's no experience like stepping off that edge for the very first time," owner of High Fly'N Zip Lines Bryce Payne said.
That's what Joan Richins' family thought. This past weekend Joan turned 70 years old and to celebrate, her family figured there was no better way than to have her jump off a 50-foot tower, flower sandals and all.
Joan had some reservations. "It looks kind of scary," she said, but when it was her turn she kind of sat down and just sort of scooted off the edge. The initial fear was replaced with a big ole smile.
"It was great. It was great," she said. "Glad I did it."
Ever since the zip line tower was put up near Sunset Boulevard and Valley View Drive in St. George, hundreds of people have been zipping away. People go down the 700-foot long line at about 35 mph, and the multi-cable system can accommodate as many as four people at a time.
"I think it's just an adrenaline rush," said St. George resident Ashlin Killina. "It's fun."
High Fly'N Zip Lines is based out of St. George. "We had a break in our schedule, and we thought, 'we're all locals here. It'd be great to be able to bring it home and let people from home experience it,' " Payne said.
The group travels all across the country, setting up mobile zip lines. They were just in Florida for spring break.
The tower on 1092 N. Bluff Street will be there until May 19. Rides are available Monday through Thursday from 3 p.m. until 10 p.m., Fridays 3 p.m. until 11:30 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. until 11:30 p.m.
Those interested in the ride must sign a waiver certifying that they weigh between 50 and 250 pounds and are able to climb five flights of stairs. People with certain physical and health problems should not try the ride.
The cost is $15 for the first ride and $5 for each additional ride on the same day.
Next month, the group will be in San Diego, then Los Angeles.
Until then, Joan may have found a new idea for her next jump. "Oh, somebody is going upside down!"
