Utah paragliding is regarded as some of the finest in the United States. With gentle thermals and smooth air, the region is a paradise for paragliders of all experience levels.
There are some amazing sites to see, and plenty of schools that can get you started. Soaring above the rocky terrain is an experience you won’t want to miss. Read on to learn more about the best places to go paragliding in Utah!
Utah Paragliding Sites: Where to Go Soaring
If you’re seeking a Utah paragliding adventure, know that Utah is a great state for paragliding, because of a wide range of sites that offer everything from good training grounds to great thermals.
But, Utah is also mostly a high mountain desert, which can probably sometimes make flying difficult because of the launch and landing altitudes, as well as the large temperature range between day and night.
The most popular flying sites in Utah are located around the cities of Moab, Ogden, and Salt Lake City. Moab has become something of a mecca for paragliding, with its many cliffs and beautiful scenery. Ogden is also a popular destination, thanks to its proximity to the world-famous Powder Mountain ski resort. Salt Lake City is more urban, but there are still several good flying sites within easy reach. If you’re looking for an adventurous paragliding experience, Utah is definitely the place to be!
Point of the Mountain
Point of the Mountain is one of the most popular spots for paragliding in the whole world. This site is located 16 miles south of Salt Lake City and boasts views that are just as beautiful. On a clear day, you can see for miles from here. You can enjoy views of Salt Lake Valley from up here, as well as mountains and lakes.
The Traverse Range mountains that surround the valley create ideal conditions for paragliding: smooth and predictable. These conditions are safe for beginner and intermediate pilots until later in the day when the wind picks up.
Point of the Mountain is a great place to take off for a number of reasons:
- First, it provides takeoff points on both its north and south sides, allowing you to make use of favorable weather conditions.
- Second, the landing zone is about 3,000 feet long and wide, so several pilots can land safely on a busy day.
- Finally, the Point of the Mountain flight park is open year-round, so you can enjoy flying no matter what the season.
So, if you’re looking for a great place that would have everything to make a paragliding location perfect, Point of the Mountain is definitely worth a visit.
Y Mountain
Y Mountain is a mountain located close to Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah, United States. A large block Y with an elevation gain of 1,074 feet can be reached by taking the Slide Canyon or Y Mountain Trail from the base of Y Mountain.
Y Mountain is a great place for paragliding. There are several launch sites near the summit, and the landing area is large and flat, so you can land safely even on busy days. The best time to fly is early in the morning or late in the evening when there are no thermals rising from the sun-heated valley below.
The area offers beautiful views of the city as well as the surrounding mountains. The takeoff site is near a hiking route, so you may combine your paragliding excursion with a trek if you like.
Moab
Moab is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts of all types, and it’s also one of the best places in the country for paragliding. The area is well-known for its red rock cliffs and canyons, and there are several launch sites near the town. The most popular landing site is at the base of the Slickrock Bike Trail, where you can find a wide, flat area to land safely.
If you’re new to paragliding, you may want to take a tandem flight with an experienced instructor. Tandem flights are available from several operators in both Moab and Salt Lake City. You can also find several paragliding schools in Utah that offer instruction for beginners.
Francis Peak
Francis Peak is one of the tallest mountains in Utah and provides picturesque views for paragliders regardless of experience level. It is a grassy peak that rises to a height of 9,200 feet. The takeoff area is vast and open, so fly there for at least 45 minutes to get a sense of the place. Because of the huge amount of air traffic in the region, you cannot fly higher than 9500 feet.
The launch site provides effortless access to thermals, making it an ideal place for beginners and experienced riders. You will have a picturesque view of the Great Salt Lake while in flight, but be careful not to take off if the weather isn’t ideal. Severe storms happen quickly in this area and it’s simply not worth risking your safety.
Camels Pass
The northwest corner of Utah is home to the Camel Pass Paragliding Area, which is one of the most thrilling in the state. The mountain has a south-facing slope and reaches an elevation of approximately 7000 feet. This makes it ideal for flying during the summer when thermals are plentiful.
The optimum take-off height for this site is 3200 feet above the landing point. From this vantage point, you can see the southern extremity of Utah Valley. If you arrive an hour before sunset, you can enjoy a flight that could last even more than an hour. However, it is preferable to have a more southerly flow aloft for this particular site.
Cedar City Hill
Located in the southwest corner of Utah, Cedar City Hill is situated on top of a ridge, making it an ideal location for paragliding. There is a consistent updraft at this spot, and the views from the top are breathtaking.
You can fly in almost any weather condition, although strong winds can start to push you back. It’s best to go west in the morning when the winds are calmer. The west side of the hill also offers stunning views of the sunset. No matter what the conditions are like, you’re sure to have a great time paragliding at Cedar City Hill.
Cascade
Cascade Springs is located in the Wasatch-Cache National Forest, just outside of Salt Lake City. And it is one of North America’s top destinations for paragliding and speedflying. This spot is perfect, as there are plenty of open areas to take off and land.
The views are breathtaking, and you may even see neighboring lakes and reservoirs from this point. There are two main landing zones on the site, which feature a vertical distance of 5500 feet and are steep with two distinct launch areas. This makes it ideal for people who like to fly as far as they want with a good time. The majority of individuals take off toward the west in pursuit of the wind.
Cascade is also home to many experienced paragliders and speedfliers who are always happy to give advice or help newbies get started. So if you’re looking for a great place to fly, Cascade is definitely the place for you.
Logan Canyon
Logan Canyon is another great spot for Utah paragliding seekers. The launch site is located in a beautiful canyon, and you can often find strong thermals here. The canyon is also home to a variety of wildlife, so you might even see some deer or bighorn sheep while you’re flying.
The paragliding take-off site in Logan Canyon is located at the Tony Grove Lake Campground. The campground is situated at an elevation of approximately 8,000 feet and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. This is a hillside that offers paragliders a smooth, gentle ride down to the landing zone. The campground is situated at an elevation of approximately 8,000 feet and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The take-off site is open from June through September, and weather conditions are usually ideal for flying.
Inspiration Point
Nestled between Cascade Mountain and Orem Town, Inspiration Point is one of the most popular Utah paragliding locations. With its excellent views and convenient location, it’s no wonder that pilots flock to this spot. The point gets its name from the inspiring vistas that can be seen from atop the mountain. On a clear day, you can see all the way to the Great Salt Lake.
Located on a high crag, it offers excellent thermalling conditions and can support great cross-country flying. On good days, pilots may paraglide up to 15,500 feet on this area’s consistent thermalling conditions. The only time the landing zone cannot be used is when the paragliding school is flying. However, even then, there are other nearby landing zones that can be used. Overall, Inspiration Point is an excellent location for both beginners and experienced paragliders alike.
Cove
If you’re looking for an adventure, Cove Mountain is the perfect place to start. This small ridge that rises to a height of 3,300 feet offers three different paragliding take-off points, each with a unique view.
The first take-off point overlooks Color Country’s lakes and streams, providing a picturesque backdrop for your flight. The second take-off point takes advantage of thermals to carry you away to the Wasatch Plateau. And finally, the third take-off point gives you an aerial perspective of Skyline Drive. Whatever your preference, Cove Mountain has a view for you. So come on up and enjoy the ride.
West take-offs are the simplest, while those to the south are narrower and good for intermediate paragliders. The north take-off location is tiny and difficult, making it perfect for expert paragliders.
Utah Paragliding Schools & Tandem Flying
Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a complete novice, paragliding is an exhilarating way to take in Utah’s stunning landscapes. And with several great schools located throughout the state, it’s easy to get started.
If you’re new to the sport, most schools will offer beginner-friendly introductory courses. These typically last for a few days and will cover everything from basic safety procedures to take-off and landing techniques. Once you’ve got the hang of things, you can move on to more advanced courses that will teach you how to navigate different types of terrain.
For those who just want to try it out, many schools also offer tandem paragliding flights. These are great for getting a taste of what the sport is all about without having to commit to learning everything yourself. Whether you’re looking for breathtaking views or an adrenaline-pumping adventure, Utah paragliding is sure to deliver.
Utah Paragliding
Location: 448 Steep Mountain Dr, Draper, UT 84020, United States
Phone: 801 368-5139
Web: www.utahparagliding.com
Cloud 9 Paragliding
Location: 12665 Minuteman Dr #100, Draper, UT 84020
Phone: 801 576-6460
Web: www.paragliders.com
White Cloud Adventures
Location: 15263 S, Steep Mountain Dr, Draper, UT 84020
Phone: (978) 778-8286
Web: whitecloudadventures.com
FAQs About Utah Paragliding
Utah paragliding is an increasingly popular way to experience the state’s stunning scenery. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about paragliding there:
Is Utah paragliding safe?
Yes, paragliding in Utah is generally safe when done with a qualified instructor and using proper equipment. However, as with any outdoor activity, there are always some risks involved. Be sure to check the weather conditions before you go and follow all safety instructions from your guide or instructor.
Where can I go paragliding in Utah?
There are many great spots for paragliding in Utah. Some of the most popular include Point of the Mountain, Camels Pass, and Moab.
What are the best times of year for Utah paragliding?
The best times of year for paragliding in Utah are typical during the spring and fall months when the weather is more stable. However, you can often find good conditions for flying year-round if you know where to look.
How much does Utah paragliding cost?
The cost of Utah paragliding will vary depending on factors such as equipment rental, lessons, and guides. However, you can expect to spend around $100 for a basic tandem paragliding flight.
What kind of equipment do I need?
Most schools will provide all the equipment you need for your lessons. This includes a harness, helmet, and glider. Some but there are still a lot of misconceptions about it.
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