Top 4 States in the U. S. to Go Hang Gliding
Over the last decade, hang gliding has surged in popularity. Searching for the top locations can be a lifelong hunt. Like a surfer who is constantly searching for the biggest and best waves, gliders spend a lot of time, money, and effort trying to find the shining star of gliding peaks. Some big contenders for this title are, surprisingly, located in the United States. The three states at the top of the list to go hang gliding in are (in no particular order): Florida, California, and Arkansas.
The most important thing to remember when choosing somewhere to go hang gliding is that the height of the peak you choose to glide from is not the key to a good gliding experience. Air flow, mountain views, and the quality of a mountain’s lifts and thermals you are able to steer into…those are what truly ensure a great ride.
Florida: The highest peak in Florida is only around 345 feet. This does not mean anything when it comes to hang gliding. You can choose to glide from one of the mountainous areas, or your glider can be lifted by plane and released once you have reached the height you desire. This allows you to choose where you want to start and to have a little momentum once you are released. Florida, albeit short in stature, because of the currents emanating from the ocean, make it a very popular place to hang glide.
Hint – Bonita Beach and Miami should each be on your list of places to glide.
California: This state boasts several mountains, many of which are quite tall, but again, this is not the key to a satisfying glide. In California, the thing to do is choose a cliff close to the ocean. This offers the same benefit that the ocean does in Florida and allows you to take advantage of the amazing natural lifts and thermals that come directly from the coast.
Hint -San Francisco and Santa Barbara are both high quality places in California to go gliding.
Arkansas: When considering a state with beautiful and majestic mountains, indeed Arkansas is not one that often comes to mind. But Arkansas’ ranges make for some incredible hang gliding. The highest peak is less than 3000 feet, so there are many mountain areas to choose from. The placement of the mountains and the currents that flow around them really benefit any glider, both experienced and novice alike.
Hint – The Ouachita Mountains, Mt. Nebo State Park, and Mt. Magazine State Park are beautiful places to go hang gliding and a great place to watch others glide.
No matter where you choose to go, be sure to follow all of the rules posted, if there are any. Also, all safety precautions should be taken any time that you glide. Take all of the equipment you need to have a safe and enjoyable glide without having to worry. While hang gliding can often be a risky sport, you should always do everything possible to avoid returning home a little broken.
