Lead Brothers Want to Build Zip Line over Old Gold Mine Pit

LEAD, S.D. (AP) — Two brothers want to build what they say will be one of the world's tallest zip lines over an old gold mine pit in western South Dakota, but officials have put the brakes on the project for now.

Lead hotel owners Mark and Paul McGrane want to put the 3,000-foot zip line over the Homestake Open Cut. Riders would be 1,200 feet up and would drop 260 vertical feet.

The Rapid City Journal reports the brothers want the city's help in acquiring land for launching and landing zones.

Open Cut owner Barrick Mining says it has no desire to open itself up to liability. And Lead Mayor Jerry Apa says the city is reluctant to insert itself into purchase negotiations between two private parties, or to declare eminent domain.

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