Venturing off The Strip wasn't entirely new for us. Brad introduced the concept during our visit last February when he took us to explore Red Rock Canyon for a few hours. Sure enough, he was right! There is indeed a world beyond the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas Boulevard. Who knew?!
This trip, we set out for Bootleg Canyon in Boulder City so we could experience the thrill of ziplining over the desert terrain. Months ago, Anh and I saw a segment featuring Bootleg Canyon Flightlines on The Travel Channel, and we both said to each other simultaneously, "We have to do that!" So we did! Yay for follow-thru!!! The fact that Brad was actually able to join in on the fun as opposed to working which he's done for the past 10 years straight only made the experience that much better.
The three amigos were off for an adventure, and we had no idea what to expect. Of course, Anh and I had seen the video footage, but that in no way prepares you the actual experience. First, you're surrounded by the beautiful desert landscape, a full 360 degree view from the top of the mountain. Thank goodness for the bus ride to the top!
Once you exit the bus and are armed with your gear, there's a short 10 minute hike to the first launch platform. At that point, it hits you that you're about to slide down the side of a freakin' mountain. What?!? Did we really think this through?!? Well, those folks on The Travel Channel all survived, right?
Just as you're starting to doubt your sanity and the choice of activity for the day, you arrive at the starting point for the adventure, the Launch Pad for Run 1 also known as the "Training Run." From there, you can see Lake Mead's crisp blue water in the distance and the adrenaline rush begins to set in. You're about to be flying through the air at 50 mph!!! What's there to be afraid of???
A few "last" pictures, just in case. The kids should have something to remember us by, after all. See how happy Mommy & Daddy were...just before...SPLAT! I wonder if the camera would even survive?
Now, a few pictures to set the stage:Launch Pad 1 for the "Bunny Slope" is in the bottom right corner. Steel beams on a wooden deck supporting four steel cable lines that run parallel to a landing deck...Yep, that's what is getting you to the bottom! 
We generously allowed the random couple with us to go first. However, I'm not sure they appreciated the courtesy since they were mumbling something about "guinea pigs." After a quick lesson from instructor #1 about posing like a "Starfish" as we made our decent while watching for a hand single from instructor #2 on the landing pad below to tell us when to assume the reclined "Landing Position," we were ready to go.
The view of the route to the bottom is below. Once strapped in, I was grateful that I had opted for that "just in case" bathroom break before boarding the bus. Never once did any of us think of NOT taking the ride though. Sure, you're nervous, but ultimately, you know you're about to experience something truly INCREDIBLE!
We generously allowed the random couple with us to go first. However, I'm not sure they appreciated the courtesy since they were mumbling something about "guinea pigs." After a quick lesson from instructor #1 about posing like a "Starfish" as we made our decent while watching for a hand single from instructor #2 on the landing pad below to tell us when to assume the reclined "Landing Position," we were ready to go.The view of the route to the bottom is below. Once strapped in, I was grateful that I had opted for that "just in case" bathroom break before boarding the bus. Never once did any of us think of NOT taking the ride though. Sure, you're nervous, but ultimately, you know you're about to experience something truly INCREDIBLE!Strapped In...
On Your Marks...
Get Set...
GO!!!
On Your Marks...Get Set...GO!!!Whew!!! We made it...in one piece. What a BLAST!!! Time for the "Stairmaster" climb to Launch Pad 2. As if your heart isn't already pumping!
And, training is over, people! Run 2 is the longest & highest and required us to learn a third position. Instead of "Starfishing" which actually slowed us down on Run 1, we would "Streamline" across this canyon. We would need to pick up lots of speed to insure we reached the landing deck far off in the distance.
And, training is over, people! Run 2 is the longest & highest and required us to learn a third position. Instead of "Starfishing" which actually slowed us down on Run 1, we would "Streamline" across this canyon. We would need to pick up lots of speed to insure we reached the landing deck far off in the distance.Away we go!!!
Touchdown!
Touchdown!Run 3 again required "streamlining." While the instructors said it was a slightly shorter run, the fact that we dipped closer to the ground made it feel more exhilarating.
Of course, by that point, we were veterans. Brad had clearly perfected the "When in Doubt, Legs Out" landing position. He was being a little overly cautious after getting wrapped up in the adrenaline rush during the previous run and forgetting to spread 'em which could have resulted in a serious leg injury. Don't be shy, folks. Open wide!
So, now, you're probably curious about the braking system that could potentially shatter your leg bones. It's a series of vinyl wrapped styrofoam blocks positioned along the last 100 feet of the steel line. I'm sure there's more to it than that, but that's the casing you actually see. (You can see the bottom of one of the blocks in the picture below.) When coming in for a landing, you slam into the blocks that slow your momentum. As a result, your legs fly up into the air due to the force of the impact. You are traveling upwards of 50 mph after all!
For our fourth and final run, we were told to completely forget about the "Streamline" position. Run 4 is the shortest and fastest run, and to "Streamline" would most certainly mean...death! Ummm...okay..."Starfishing" definitely seems like the way to go. Sure enough, the instructors weren't exaggerating. We were flying!!! Truly flying!!! The last leg of the adventure came to a close at lightening speed, and my one bit of advice is if you're going to forget to "Spread 'Em," please don't do it on the last run!
We've been to Vegas so many times that I've lost count, and we've done a lot of crazy things in life, BUT this experience is like nothing else. If you find yourself in the vicinity, it is an absolute MUST, and I can't think of a two better people to have experienced it with. Miss ya already, Brad!
Of course, by that point, we were veterans. Brad had clearly perfected the "When in Doubt, Legs Out" landing position. He was being a little overly cautious after getting wrapped up in the adrenaline rush during the previous run and forgetting to spread 'em which could have resulted in a serious leg injury. Don't be shy, folks. Open wide!So, now, you're probably curious about the braking system that could potentially shatter your leg bones. It's a series of vinyl wrapped styrofoam blocks positioned along the last 100 feet of the steel line. I'm sure there's more to it than that, but that's the casing you actually see. (You can see the bottom of one of the blocks in the picture below.) When coming in for a landing, you slam into the blocks that slow your momentum. As a result, your legs fly up into the air due to the force of the impact. You are traveling upwards of 50 mph after all!For our fourth and final run, we were told to completely forget about the "Streamline" position. Run 4 is the shortest and fastest run, and to "Streamline" would most certainly mean...death! Ummm...okay..."Starfishing" definitely seems like the way to go. Sure enough, the instructors weren't exaggerating. We were flying!!! Truly flying!!! The last leg of the adventure came to a close at lightening speed, and my one bit of advice is if you're going to forget to "Spread 'Em," please don't do it on the last run!We've been to Vegas so many times that I've lost count, and we've done a lot of crazy things in life, BUT this experience is like nothing else. If you find yourself in the vicinity, it is an absolute MUST, and I can't think of a two better people to have experienced it with. Miss ya already, Brad!
Eventually, we were able to convince the boys to participate in some passing drills. Although, Baylor did more passing to Jax than vice versa. Oh well, baby steps.
Jax was not intimidated by the Goalie's constant, "I don't think so!" and "Get it out of here!" smack talk. Impressively, Jax even managed to sneak a few goals! Looks like Daddy needs to brush up on his skills too.
Baylor seemed eager to prove that he has athletic genes as well. The kid is passionate about sports. Some of the words Baylor pronounces the clearest are basketball, baseball, football, tennis ball, golf ball, and soccer ball. I don't think that's coincidence. The boy is a tad bit obsessed!
Uncle Kyle...not so much. He wasn't interested in the soccer match. We found him napping in the shade on the playground. I guess we'll blame the heat!
Baylor had to fight to maintain his balance in the churning waters, but he wasn't going to let anything stop him from participating in the fun. With each trip to the beach, he becomes a little braver in the water. By next summer, I'm sure we'll have another dare devil on our hands in the waves.
Uncle Kyle felt secure with his life preserver. Strange tan lines were the worst of his worries!
Let me provide the soundtrack for this picture. Had I been in video mode, you would hear, "WOO HOO!!!!" That's Baylor's favorite phrase lately. What can I say? He's a happy boy!
At times, a huge wave would break and threaten to wash away the smaller members of our group. I don't think Kyle falls into that category anymore, but Ong Noi wasn't taking any chances.
Baylor eventually tired of fighting the surf and demanded to be held by anyone with a free arm. He didn't want to hang out on the beach. He just needed a few extra inches of clearance from the crashing waves. Luckily, Aunt Nguyen was happy to provide a helping hand.
Jax took the opposite approach. He wanted to get up close and personal with the action on his boogie board. While he did manage to catch a few waves, Jax quickly tired from the battle he had to wage while paddling back out into the surf.
Eventually, Jax convinced Aunt Nguyen to tow him back out to sea so he could ride the next wave in. Always thinking that kid!
By late afternoon, Baylor was content to simply watch the action swirling around him. Nap time had come and gone. Instead of fighting the waves, Baylor was fighting to stay awake. He didn't want to miss any of excitement.
After catching a second wave of energy, Baylor mustered up the strength to assist his big brother in a treasure hunt. When I saw the boys armed with their shovels, I asked, "What are you digging for?"
Jax told me, "Mom, you know there's buried pirate treasure here!" Oh, of course! How silly of me not to realize that!
Sadly, the boys never did find that treasure. Some cool seashells, yes, but no treasure. Oh well! I guess we'll hope for better luck next time! Although, the 2010 beach season is quickly coming to an end. We better hurry up and locate that treasure. I have Christmas presents to buy!
