Riverbanks Zoo and Garden is soaring to new heights with the Saluda Skyride, an aerial gondola that’s under construction. Currently, towers stand on both sides of the Saluda River for the development that will connect the zoo and botanical garden.
The aerial lift is set to open later this year and will give riders a bird’s-eye view of the Saluda River + its surrounding areas. While we can’t see those panoramic views yet, we can take a look at some of the project’s numbers:
- 2.5 minutes — the duration of the ride
- 19 — the number of cabins, each with capacity to hold eight passengers
- 1,600 — how many riders can be transported per hour
The transit ride is part of phase 2 of the Zoo’s Bridge to the Wild project that anticipates having a $175 million annual impact on the local economy. Riverbanks’ President + CEO Tommy Stringfellow called the Saluda Skyride “a symbol of Riverbanks Zoo and Garden’s commitment to innovation, conservation, community, and economic growth.”
The Saluda Skyride is designed with sustainability and ecology in mind. The electric-powered designs aim to reduce Riverbanks’ reliance on fossil fuels. The Zoo also worked with the SC Department of Natural Resources + Department of Environmental Services to ensure the development had minimal impacts to wetland systems and local wildlife.
The ride was also designed with accessibility in mind, and cabins will be able to accommodate wheelchairs and strollers.
Pricing has not yet been confirmed, but the Zoo will offer a pay once, ride all day experience. Discounted rates will be offered to Zoo members.
