What do I Need to Start Paragliding?
To safely start your paragliding journey, start by familiarizing yourself with the basics of paragliding, safety measures, and equipment through online resources or books.
Find a Certified School: look for a reputable paragliding school or instructor certified by a recognized body, such as the USHPA (United States Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association).
Take Lessons: enroll in a beginner course for ground training, understanding equipment, and taking initial tandem flights.
Get the Right Gear: once you’ve taken a training course, invest in your own equipment. This will include a paraglider, harness, helmet, and reserve parachute. Your instructor can guide you on what to buy.
Practice: start with small, controlled flights to build your skills and confidence. Join local clubs to connect with other pilots.
Safety First: always check weather conditions and follow safety protocols before flying.
Paragliding is a thrilling sport, but it comes with certain dangers
Weather Conditions: sudden changes in weather can lead to turbulence, strong winds, or storms, posing risks.
Equipment Failure: malfunctions or improper use of gear can lead to accidents.
Pilot Error: poor decision-making, lack of experience, or not following safety protocols can result in crashes.
Mid-Air Collisions: close proximity to other paragliders or obstacles can cause collisions.
Landing Hazards: difficult or obstructed landing zones can lead to hard landings or injuries.
Safety training and proper equipment maintenance are crucial to minimizing these risks.
Some of the most popular paragliding spots in North America include:
U.S.
Torrey Pines, California: is known for its scenic coastal cliffs and favorable winds.
Point of the Mountain, Utah: offers excellent conditions and training facilities.
Lookout Mountain, Georgia: is famous for its consistent winds and great views.
Owens Valley, California: has challenging thermal conditions.
Tiger Mountain, Washington: is popular for its beautiful scenery and consistent conditions.
Canada:
Golden, British Columbia: with its strong thermals and stunning mountain views.
Pemberton, British Columbia: known for its picturesque landscapes and reliable flying conditions.
Mont-Sainte-Anne, Quebec: offers beautiful views and good launch sites.
Kananaskis Country, Alberta: has rugged mountain scenery and powerful thermals.
Vernon, British Columbia: is popular for its smooth air and beautiful landscapes.
These locations are known for excellent conditions and incredible scenery, attracting paragliders of all skill levels. Always check local regulations and weather conditions before flying.
We’d like to highlight one of our favorite locations: Pemberton, BC
Paragliding in Pemberton, British Columbia (Canada), is an absolutely thrilling experience with exceptionally stunning landscapes.
Location and Scenery
Mountains and Valleys: Pemberton offers breathtaking views. The Coast Mountains, snow capped much of the year, rise dramatically above you. You’ll look down upon lush valleys, rivers and surrounding glacier-fed lakes.
Launch Sites: popular launch sites include the Pemberton Mountain and the Mackenzie launch, both provide excellent conditions and views.
Weather: summer months (June to September) are ideal for consistent thermals and good flying conditions.
Altitude: the elevation of the launch sites provides long and scenic flights, making it a favorite among paragliders.
Local Community: you’ll find an active paragliding community in Pemberton, with support for both beginners and experienced pilots.
Events: Pemberton occasionally hosts paragliding competitions & events, attracting pilots from other areas.
Safety and Regulations
Guided Flights: tandem flights and lessons are available here for newcomers.
Regulations: pilots should be aware of local airspace regulations and weather conditions for safety.
Paragliding in Pemberton offers an exhilarating way to experience the beauty of British Columbia from above. A must see whether you're a seasoned pilot or a first-timer.
