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Saluda’s zip line in running for USA Today’s top 10

SALUDA—Saluda’s The Gorge is in the running again for the country’s 10 best aerial adventure parks.

The contest is run by the USA Today 10 best readers’ choice.

The Gorge is the nation’s steepest and fastest zip line canopy tour. Based in Saluda, it has 11 zip lines spanning well over a mile with a total descent of more than 1,100 vertical feet. The Gorge also has a sky bridge and 3 rappels.

The Gorge placed 6^th in the competition last year.

Last year Shepherd of the Hills Adventure Park in Branson, Mo. took the top spot.

Also in the running this year is Canopy Ridge Farm in Lake Lure.

As of Tuesday, The Gorge was in 2^nd place and Canopy Ridge Farm was in 3^rd place behind Kerfoot Canopy Tour in Henderson, Minn.

The Gorge goes above 18,000 acres of state protected Green River Gamelands.

USA Today said when posting their results that ziplines and canopy tours began as a tool for scientific field research, but exploded in popularity as an attraction in their own right; a way to experience the forest canopy in a safe and thrilling environment.

The winners were voted on by the public after a panel of experts partnered with the 10Best editors, who picked the initial 20 nominees.

To vote visit the Gorge on Facebook.