Washington State
This is the fulfillment of mankind’s oldest dream. free flight! Paragliding is about finesse and tranquility, not strength and adrenaline. There is no free-falling or jumping off cliffs.
Paragliders come from all over the world to experience Chelan Butte, site of the 1995/96 Paragliding Nationals. Home to hot summer winds, called thermals, this scenic eastern Washington spot on the Cascade Loop (www.cascadeloop.com) offers spectators a chance to see the sky filled with flocks of brightly colored, nylon-winged “birds.” Skilled pilots launch from Chelan Butte in the middle of the day, when thermals are likely to be the most testy. Recreational pilots take off when the winds are calmer.
Visit www.landings.com/landings/pages/hang/hanggliding-wa.html for an index to find several paragliding schools in central Washington.
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Hang Gliding in Washington
Hang gliding is a thrilling air sport that involves flying a lightweight, non-motorized glider known as a hang glider. Pilots launch from elevated terrains, such as hills or mountains, and use air currents to gain altitude and glide through the sky.
The glider consists of a rigid frame covered with a durable fabric, forming a wing-like structure. Pilots control the glider by shifting their body weight and using a control bar, which allows for maneuverability in the air.
Hang gliding can be done solo or in tandem with an instructor. It requires a combination of skill, knowledge of weather conditions, and understanding of aerodynamics. Pilots often seek out thermals—rising columns of warm air—to extend their flight time and gain altitude.
It’s an exhilarating way to experience the beauty of nature from a unique perspective, but safety precautions and proper training are essential.
Hang gliding requires specific equipment to ensure safety and performance. Here are the main components:
Hang Glider: The core piece of equipment, typically made of a lightweight frame (often aluminum or carbon fiber) covered with durable fabric. The design allows for both lift and maneuverability.
Control Bar: A horizontal bar that pilots use to control the glider by shifting their weight. It connects to the glider’s wing and helps with steering.
Harness: Pilots wear a harness that attaches them to the glider. It provides comfort and security, allowing for effective weight shifting.
Helmet: A protective helmet is essential to safeguard against head injuries during launch, flight, or landing.
Variometer: An instrument that measures the rate of climb or descent, helping pilots find thermals and manage their altitude.
Radio: Many pilots use radios for communication, especially during tandem flights or when flying in controlled airspace.
Gloves and Boots: Specialized gloves can improve grip on the control bar, and sturdy footwear provides support during takeoff and landing.
Safety Gear: This may include a reserve parachute, knee pads, and additional protective clothing depending on the flying environment.
Proper equipment, along with training and safety protocols, is crucial for an enjoyable and safe hang gliding experience.
Below are a couple of books to get you started or to continue your hang gliding journey, please see the links (to Amazon):
Windy day hang gliding at Cliffside (Goldendale, Washington)
Choose a state for hang gliding:
Hang Gliding Adventures tries to keep the information regarding hang gliding as current as possible. The information found on Hang Gliding Adventures is not guaranteed to be accurate as hang gliding companies move, change websites, locations, phone numbers, etc. Please use this website only as a guide to your hang gliding adventure and verify all information independently.
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