Paragliding in the USA keeps its own special place among all sports. With the support of simple craft parachutes, it is easy to fly. In the early 18th, it was founded by mountaineers and climbers for an easier way to come down the peak they had climbed.
Paragliding is one of the newest air sports in the US therefore it has been developing and expanding in the last fifteen years, both as an outdoor activity and as a sport. No complicated procedures or periods of hard and long training are required to do this activity. All you need is a good well and free time to enjoy amazing adventures.
Top Paragliding Spots in the US
The United States of America is a beautiful country with lots of mountains, valleys, deserts, and coastlines that are perfect for fly sports. Here are the top seven paragliding destinations in the US.
Remember that there are so many other amazing destinations for paragliding in the US, but we have only chosen some of the best paragliding spots for tourists in the United States.
1. Fort Funston
California is one of the top destinations in the world specifically for paragliding and hangs gliding. The combination of coastline, mountains and sunny weather creates perfect conditions for flying. Fort Funston is located just a few mile South of San Francisco.
This is a premier spot in Northern California for shorter and trick-oriented gliding. This place is not suitable for beginners.
You should also check out these 5 best horse-riding destinations in the US.
2. Owens Valley CA
This is a great place for beginners, as there are some schools and launching points available around the valley. Located along the Eastern edge of the Sierra Nevada, this valley is suitable for long flying due to upward-moving air conditions.
The tallest mountains in the East and deserts are located in the East of this valley.
3. Jean Ridge dry bed
There are many places you can go to start your flight at this spot. The ridge runs about one mile long and it is made mostly of soft sand and rocks. This wonderful place is a favorite for paragliders from Los Vegas and all over the world.
4. Sun Valley, ID
Located in Idaho this valley is one of the top destinations for paragliding and hang gliding and even served as one of the locations in the paragliding world cup last year. It is a good area for both beginner and experienced pilots.
Sun Valley is a huge area, having a big desert with moving upward air conditions that allow cross-country gliders to fly for more than eight hours and cross hundreds of miles.
5. The Point of the Mountain, UT
This spot is located outside of Salt Lake City in North America great for both paragliding and hang gliding. This spot offers consistent wind and a state park named “Flight State Park Recreation Area” devoted to flying, has been created here.
In the morning, the wind is smooth and steady and without turbulence. In the afternoon, however, with the valley heating up, there are big updrafts that let experienced pilots fly cross-country and do tricks.
The mountains jutting into the valley create a permanent stream of air that offers some of the smoothest air conditions in North America. You must check out some of these best spots for paragliding and parasailing in New Jersey as well.
6. Sedona Red rocks
This spot is located in Arizona, it has become an extremely popular place for flying lovers and adventure seekers. You can breathe the fresh air in the desert, and the smells of juniper flowers, red clay, limestone, and wildflowers.
You have a sense of peace while doing so. If you are looking for a unique place then Sedona will be the perfect destination.
7. Glenwood springs
If you want to experience a fantastic and spectacular birds’ eye view you must go to Glenwood springs. Paragliding down from such a height might seem difficult at first but once you gather up courage, you will be rewarded with an amazing view.
It has perfect spots for landing where you can slide smoothly. You will definitely have great if you choose Gleenwood springs as a spot for paragliding.
Is Paragliding Safe?
Tourists and locals who haven’t experienced paragliding in their life, are curious about whether is paragliding safe or not.
So, these are some of the most popular, safe, and best spots for paragliding for international tourists.
Paragliding Lessons in the USA
All these places have some of the best paragliding schools and clubs where you can take paragliding lessons for a safe and exciting paragliding experience.
Remember that, this sport is risky, and you should know all the important things. You should know how to control the air pressure, how to take off, how to turn in the air, how to change the altitude, and how to land safely.
You can do all these tasks with perfection if you take the paragliding lessons carefully and remember the tips and tricks for paragliding.