A cable park is an entertainment venue featuring an overhead cable system composed of two or more towers, usually over a body of water, powered by an electric motor and designed to pull participants along the length of the cable. The course may be a simple one-way pull or a generally circular route that ultimately brings participants back to the starting point. Because of the configuration of the cable towers, the course is not circular but may consist of five or six sides with gentle, obtuse-angular turns.
Riders grasp a line attached to the overhead cables that pull them along at a precise speed appropriate for that sport. Each cable system can operate at multiple speeds, which the operator can adjust between activities. The predictable movement makes it easier for beginners to balance and more experienced riders to perform their tricks. The efficiency of the system allows multiple simultaneous participants, spaced evenly along the length of the cable. Riders can maneuver onto or around specially designed obstacles for a more challenging experience. At the same time, the flexibility of the cable system allows easy adjustments to accommodate several different water sports throughout the day.
Cable systems for water sports originated in Europe over 50 years ago, steadily gaining popularity in Europe, but have recently established a foothold in the US. Initially used just for water skiing, cable parks now host activities ranging from family-friendly outings to extreme sports competitions. Cable parks can be standalone attractions or part of a larger entertainment complex that might include anything from swimming and sprinkler-type activities for the younger set to food, indoor entertainment, fishing, and even tubing, depending on your aspirations and location. Some venues even include paintball, basketball, and tennis courts or more leisurely activities like paddle boating.
