Skydiving and paragliding in the USA offer exhilarating opportunities to experience the thrill of flight while soaking in breathtaking landscapes. Here’s a guide to some of the best locations, tips, and essential information for these activities:
Top Skydiving Locations
Skydive Perris (California)
Why Go: Beautiful views of Southern California’s mountains and deserts.
Highlights: World-class facilities with an indoor wind tunnel for practice.
Skydive Arizona (Eloy, Arizona)
Why Go: One of the largest drop zones in the world.
Highlights: Desert landscapes, excellent for both beginners and experienced jumpers.
Skydive Hawaii (Oahu, Hawaii)
Why Go: Stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, beaches, and tropical greenery.
Highlights: Unique opportunity to skydive over paradise.
Skydive Snohomish (Washington)
Why Go: Spectacular views of Mount Rainier, Puget Sound, and the Cascades.
Highlights: Known for its excellent safety and customer service.
Skydive Chicago (Illinois)
Why Go: A premier destination for skydiving enthusiasts.
Highlights: Hosts national and international skydiving competitions.
Skydiving Tips
Choose a Reputable Company: Look for certified operators with good reviews.
Wear Comfortable Clothing: Athletic wear and snug-fitting shoes are ideal.
Prepare Mentally: Focus on the excitement rather than fear.
Follow Safety Instructions: Listen carefully to your instructor, especially during tandem jumps.
Top Paragliding Locations
Torrey Pines Gliderport (San Diego, California)
Why Go: Soaring over ocean cliffs and sandy beaches.
Highlights: A historic site with tandem flights available for beginners.
Point of the Mountain (Draper, Utah)
Why Go: Known for consistent weather and thermals, ideal for paragliders.
Highlights: A favorite spot for both training and advanced pilots.
Lookout Mountain Flight Park (Georgia)
Why Go: Beautiful Appalachian views with beginner-friendly training options.
Highlights: One of the largest flight schools in the USA.
Sun Valley (Idaho)
Why Go: Incredible mountain scenery and excellent thermals.
Highlights: A hotspot for cross-country paragliding.
Big Sur (California)
Why Go: Iconic cliffs and ocean vistas make for breathtaking flights.
Highlights: Popular for tandem and experienced paragliders.
Paragliding Tips
Start with Tandem Flights: Ideal for beginners to experience the thrill safely.
Take Lessons: Learn basic controls and safety procedures from certified instructors.
Check Weather Conditions: Paragliding is highly weather-dependent; clear skies and calm winds are best.
Gear Up: Wear lightweight, comfortable clothing and bring sunglasses.
Stay Hydrated: Especially important for high-altitude flights.
Differences Between Skydiving and Paragliding
Feature
Skydiving
Paragliding
Adrenaline Level
High (rapid free fall)
Moderate (soaring and gliding)
Control
Mostly handled by the tandem instructor
Pilot controls the paraglider
Duration
Short (3-5 minutes)
Longer (20-45 minutes or more)
Training
Minimal for tandem jumps
Requires lessons for solo flights
Best Times for Each
Skydiving: Spring, summer, and early fall for warmer, clearer weather.
Paragliding: Year-round in areas with consistent thermals, like California and Utah.
