All activities at height come with inherent risks. Without these integral risks, the activity would lose its value and appeal.
With that said, the owners and staff of High Trek Ventures pride themselves on adhering to industry leading standards for construction, inspection, equipment and staff training. (For more on standards for our industry visit: acctinfo.org).
The course was built by Challenge Towers, an ACCT accredited vendor, which has been building aerial structures for over 20 years.
Each guest is given an aerial orientation from trained staff before entering our ropes course. We refer to this orientation as "Ground School". In Ground School, each guest is introduced to equipment and course procedures from the ground. This orientation helps to set each guest up for success in their aerial experience.
The lobster claw has become the standard for fall arrest on fixed cables - also called static belay. The basic lobster claw consists of two independent carabiners connected to a harness by sturdy lanyards. This set up allows a participant to self-navigate through a variety of elements and challenges.
Most participants prefer this experience as it allows for choice and independence. However, until recently, it also presented the possibility of the user accidentally unclip both carabiners from the course. This can pose a real risk.
Advances in technology have provided a solution. It's the solution used at High Trek.
Smart belay systems like the Bornack Smart Belay address this risk by incorporating a locking mechanism that only allows one carabiner to be open at time. Guest can quickly master the use of this system during ground school time, but at the same time be assured they will be secured to the course during their visit.
