Introduction
Bungee jumping is one of the most exciting adventure activities available in the United States. The combination of height, scenic landscapes, and controlled freefall creates a powerful adrenaline rush. But before you take the leap, it’s important to understand where you can legally jump, how safety works, what it costs, and how to prepare for Best Bungee Jumping in USA.
Unlike some countries where bungee jumping is widely available, commercial jumps in the U.S. are limited to specific locations and often operate through licensed event-based companies. That makes research even more important.
This complete 2026 guide covers everything you need in one place: the best locations, jump heights, pricing, safety standards, who should try it, what to expect on jump day, and practical preparation tips. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned thrill seeker, this guide will help you make an informed decision.
Where Can You Do Bungee Jumping in the USA?
Quick Answer:
Commercial bungee jumping in the United States is available at select bridges and event-based locations, mainly in states like Colorado and Idaho. Operations are regulated and conducted by certified operators with safety protocols and liability waivers.
Not every tall bridge allows commercial jumps, so always confirm through official operators before planning your trip.
Quick Comparison Table
| Location | State | Approx. Jump Height | Best For | Typical Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Royal Gorge Bridge | Colorado | ~200–250 ft platform jumps | Experienced thrill seekers | $200–$300 |
| Perrine Bridge | Idaho | ~486 ft bridge height (special events) | Extreme adventure fans | $150–$250 |
| Rio Grande Bridge | New Mexico | ~565 ft bridge height | Scenic desert jumpers | Event-based |
| Navajo Bridge | Arizona | ~470 ft bridge height | Event jump participants | Seasonal |
Note: Heights vary depending on jump setup and operator.
Top Bungee Jumping Locations in the USA
1. Royal Gorge Bridge – Colorado
The Royal Gorge Bridge is one of the most iconic locations for bungee jumping in the U.S. Spanning the Arkansas River, it offers dramatic canyon views and structured event-based jumps.
Overview
- Known for organized bungee events
- Scenic canyon environment
- Professional safety management
Best For
- Experienced jumpers
- Travelers visiting Colorado adventure parks
Why It Stands Out
The canyon landscape creates a visually powerful jump experience.
2. Perrine Bridge – Idaho
Perrine Bridge is famous for BASE jumping, but certain operators organize controlled bungee events.
Overview
- Approximately 486 feet tall
- Open year-round for legal jumping activities
- Strong adventure community
Best For
- Extreme sports enthusiasts
- Visitors to Twin Falls, Idaho
Important Note
Always verify whether commercial bungee operations are active before traveling.
3. Rio Grande Bridge – New Mexico
Located near Taos, this bridge offers breathtaking desert canyon scenery.
Overview
- High bridge over the Rio Grande Gorge
- Event-based jumps
- Dramatic desert backdrop
Best For
- Scenic adventure travelers
- Photography lovers
4. Navajo Bridge – Arizona
Situated over the Colorado River, Navajo Bridge occasionally hosts organized jump events.
Overview
- Beautiful river setting
- Limited event-based opportunities
- Warm-weather advantage
Best For
- Southwest road trip adventurers
Safety Standards & Regulations
Safety is the most important factor when choosing bungee jumping in USA.
Professional operators follow strict procedures, including:
- Weight verification
- Harness inspection
- Cord inspection
- Safety briefings
- Emergency response planning
While there is no single national governing body solely for bungee jumping, the broader U.S. adventure sports community follows safety culture standards similar to those promoted by the United States Parachute Association.
Additionally, always:
- Sign waivers carefully
- Confirm operator experience
- Check reviews
- Verify insurance coverage
Never jump from unauthorized bridges.
Cost of Bungee Jumping in USA (2026)
Prices vary depending on location and event setup.
Average Cost Range
- $100–$150 (lower-height or promotional events)
- $150–$250 (standard organized jumps)
- $250–$300+ (special canyon events)
Additional Costs
- Video packages
- Photo services
- Event registration fees
Refund policies vary. Always review cancellation terms before booking.
What to Expect on Jump Day
Knowing the process helps reduce anxiety.
Step 1: Check-In
You’ll register, sign waivers, and confirm weight.
Step 2: Safety Briefing
Operators explain:
- Jump posture
- Hand placement
- Countdown procedure
Step 3: Harness Setup
Ankle and body harnesses are secured and double-checked.
Step 4: The Jump
You step forward on countdown and experience freefall before cord rebound.
Step 5: Recovery
You are lowered or guided back to a recovery zone.
The entire process is structured and supervised.
Who Should (and Should Not) Try Bungee Jumping
Suitable For
- Healthy adults
- Adventure travelers
- People comfortable with heights
Avoid If You Have
- Heart conditions
- Severe back or neck problems
- Recent surgery
- Pregnancy
- Uncontrolled high blood pressure
If unsure, consult a healthcare professional before booking.
Preparation Tips
To ensure a smooth experience:
- Wear comfortable athletic clothing
- Avoid heavy meals before jumping
- Remove loose accessories
- Tie back long hair
- Arrive early for check-in
Stay hydrated, especially in desert states like Arizona and New Mexico.
Best Time of Year for Bungee Jumping
Weather plays a major role.
Spring & Fall
- Mild temperatures
- Comfortable jumping conditions
Summer
- Good availability
- Hot temperatures in desert regions
Winter
- Limited events in colder states
Check official state tourism websites for seasonal updates.
Alternatives to Bungee Jumping in USA (Detailed Guide)
If you want an adrenaline rush but feel nervous about bungee jumping, don’t worry — there are many exciting adventure activities across the United States that offer thrill without the fear of jumping from extreme heights.
Here are the best alternatives explained in detail.
1. Skydiving
Skydiving is one of the most thrilling adventure activities and a great alternative to bungee jumping.
Instead of jumping from a fixed platform, you jump from an aircraft with professional safety support.
Why choose skydiving?
- Ultimate adrenaline rush
- Stunning aerial views
- Professional instructors ensure safety
- Once-in-a-lifetime experience
Types of skydiving for beginners
Tandem Skydiving:
Perfect for beginners. You are attached to an experienced instructor who controls the jump and landing.
Indoor Skydiving:
If you are afraid of heights, try indoor skydiving first.
Wind tunnels simulate free-fall without jumping from a plane.
Many people try indoor skydiving at places like
iFLY Indoor Skydiving
before attempting real skydiving outdoors.
Best for:
- Extreme adventure lovers
- Bucket-list travelers
- Anyone wanting a safe but thrilling experience
2. Ziplining
Ziplining is one of the safest and most fun alternatives to bungee jumping.
You glide across a cable from one platform to another, usually over forests, mountains, or rivers.
Why it’s popular
- Less scary than jumping
- Smooth and controlled ride
- Amazing nature views
- Suitable for beginners
Types of zipline experiences
Forest Ziplining:
Fly over trees and rivers in national parks and adventure parks.
Mountain Ziplining:
High-speed zipline rides across mountains offer stunning scenic views.
Urban Ziplining:
Available in some cities with skyline views.
Who should try it?
- Families
- First-time adventure travelers
- People afraid of extreme heights
- Nature lovers
Ziplining offers excitement without the intense fear that bungee jumping can cause.
3. Bridge Walk Tours
Bridge walk tours are perfect for people who want height adventure without jumping.
Instead of leaping off a bridge, you walk across it using safety harnesses and guided paths.
One famous example is the bridge walk at
Royal Gorge Bridge
which offers incredible canyon views and a thrilling experience.
Why try bridge walks?
- Safe and guided
- Great for photography
- Incredible scenic views
- Mild adrenaline experience
You still feel the height and excitement but without the fear of falling or jumping.
Best for:
- Beginners
- Families
- Travelers with mild fear of heights
- Scenic adventure lovers
4. Indoor Adventure Parks
Indoor adventure parks are growing fast in popularity across the USA.
They offer high-energy activities in a controlled and safe environment.
Activities you can try
- Indoor rock climbing
- Rope courses
- Trampoline parks
- Indoor skydiving
- Obstacle courses
Benefits
- Weather-proof adventure
- Safe for beginners
- Professional supervision
- Good for all age groups
These parks give you adrenaline and fun without extreme outdoor risks.
Perfect for:
- Beginners
- Families
- Kids and teens
- Travelers who prefer controlled environments
Indoor adventure parks are ideal if you want thrill but not extreme fear.
These activities offer excitement with different intensity levels.
FAQ: Best Bungee Jumping in USA
1. Is bungee jumping legal in the USA?
Yes, but only at specific approved locations and through certified operators.
2. What is the highest bungee jump in the USA?
Some of the tallest bridge jumps occur at Perrine Bridge in Idaho, depending on event setup.
3. How safe is bungee jumping?
When conducted by professional operators following safety protocols, it is considered a controlled and regulated activity.
4. What is the minimum age requirement?
Age limits vary by operator, but many require participants to be 18 or older or have parental consent.
5. Can I jump if I wear glasses?
Yes, but secure straps are recommended, or remove glasses before jumping.
6. Is prior experience required?
No prior experience is needed for commercial bungee jumping.
Conclusion
The best bungee jumping in USA depends on your comfort level, travel plans, and seasonal timing. Locations like Royal Gorge Bridge and Perrine Bridge offer structured jump experiences with scenic backdrops and professional oversight.
Before booking, research operators carefully, review safety protocols, understand pricing, and prepare physically and mentally.
Bungee jumping is not just about the drop—it’s about preparation, safety, and confidence. Compare locations, confirm event schedules, and take the leap only when you feel fully ready.
For more adventure planning guides, explore our related resources on extreme sports safety, U.S. travel destinations, and outdoor preparation tips to plan your next thrill responsibly.