Couple faces challenge of Crocodile Crossing

Historic City News reporters were on hand for Wednesday afternoon’s grand opening of “Crocodile Crossing” at the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park; an attraction that offers the only opportunity in the state to zip across live crocodilians.

Local St. Augustine chocolatier Virginia Whetstone Maguire accepted the challenge of Crocodile Crossing; a 7-acre zip line course offering park visitors an aerial eco-adventure and a unique opportunity to view crocodiles, alligators, birds, and other animals.

Crocodile Crossing features 50 tree-top platforms and a secure cable system that enables visitors to “zip” from tree to tree. Virginia was accompanied by her husband, Bruce Maguire, who got his exercise for the day encountering the many aerial obstacles; including tightropes, cargo nets and teeter-totters. “This attraction is a truly unique adventure,” Maguire said.

During the ceremonies, John Brueggen, Director and General Manager of The Alligator Farm, told participants, “We’re excited to welcome Alligator Farm guests to experience Florida’s first zip line course over live alligators. Crocodile Crossing gives St. Augustine locals and visitors a view of crocodilians they’ve never had before.”

Brueggen, who was one of the first to challenge the course, told his grand opening guests, “The course incorporates several heart-pounding zips, sure to thrill any and all adventure seekers.”

Crocodile Crossing is accessible to visitors of all ages and fitness levels — though it is most suited to those seeking adventure, excitement and a unique perspective on the zoo’s wildlife. Parts of the course even take visitors above “behind-the-scenes” areas of the zoo for a sneak peek into park operations.

Photo credits: © 2011 Historic City News contributed photograph