Hang Gliding in Maryland: Best Spots and Companies

Maryland’s diverse landscapes, from rolling farmland to lush valleys, provide excellent opportunities for hang gliding enthusiasts. With scenic launch sites and professional companies offering lessons and tandem flights, both beginners and experienced gliders can enjoy the thrill of soaring through Maryland’s skies.

Top Hang Gliding Launch Areas in Maryland

Ridgely, Maryland

Known for its open farmland and vast landscapes, Ridgely provides ideal conditions for hang gliding. The expansive skies and reliable winds make this location a favorite among local gliders.

Bentley Springs (Parkton, Maryland)

Nestled in Northern Maryland, Bentley Springs offers beautiful natural surroundings and steady wind patterns, making it a popular spot for hang gliding enthusiasts.

Phoenix, Maryland

Located in central Maryland, Phoenix provides favorable wind conditions and easy access for gliders, offering a convenient option for those in the region.

Hang Gliding Companies in Maryland

Adventure Wings School of Hang Gliding

Adventure Wings offers lessons and tandem flights, catering to both beginners and experienced gliders.

• Location: Bentley Springs, Maryland

Highland Aerosports

Highland Aerosports provides a range of hang gliding experiences, including comprehensive training and scenic tandem flights. **Update: Permanently closed.**

• Website: www.aerosports.net
• Location: Ridgely, Maryland

Maryland School of Hang Gliding

*Update: Closed.*

Previously based in Phoenix, Maryland, this school offered training and tandem flights but is no longer operational.

• Website: www.mshg.com
• Location: Phoenix, Maryland

Silver Wings Inc.

Though located in Virginia, Silver Wings serves the Maryland area, providing tandem flights and professional instruction.

• Website: www.silverwingshanggliding.com
• Location: Arlington, Virginia

Alternative Outdoor Activities in Maryland

For those looking to explore Maryland’s natural beauty beyond hang gliding, the state offers a wealth of outdoor adventures:

• Hiking:
  • Discover the scenic trails of Catoctin Mountain Park, known for its rugged terrain and forested landscapes.
  • Explore a section of the Appalachian Trail, which winds through Maryland’s western region.
• Kayaking and Canoeing:
  • Paddle along the iconic Chesapeake Bay, famous for its stunning views and serene waters.
  • Enjoy the gentle flow of the Potomac River, perfect for a relaxing day on the water.
• Rock Climbing:
  • Challenge yourself at Sugarloaf Mountain, a popular spot for climbers of all levels.
• Birdwatching:
  • Visit Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge, a haven for birdwatchers, especially during migratory seasons.

Safety Tips and Best Time to Visit

Best Time to Fly: Spring and fall provide mild weather and stable wind conditions, making these seasons ideal for hang gliding in Maryland.

Safety Tips:

• Respect local regulations and landowners when accessing launch sites.
• Always check weather forecasts before flying.
• Use certified equipment and ensure it is in excellent condition.
• Beginners should fly with professional instructors or companies offering tandem flights.

Conclusion

Maryland offers a variety of scenic hang gliding locations, from the open fields of Ridgely to the serene surroundings of Bentley Springs. With professional services like Highland Aerosports and Silver Wings Inc., gliders of all levels can experience the exhilaration of flight. For those seeking additional adventures, Maryland’s hiking trails, waterways, and wildlife refuges provide endless opportunities to connect with nature.

Hang Gliding in the United States: Choose a State