Hang Gliding in New York: Best Spots and Companies

New York’s diverse landscapes, from the majestic Adirondacks to the serene Finger Lakes, provide incredible opportunities for hang gliding enthusiasts. With numerous scenic launch sites and professional companies offering lessons and tandem flights, New York caters to both beginners and experienced gliders seeking adventure in the skies.

Top Hang Gliding Locations in New York

Altamont (Altamont, New York)

A serene rural location offering open skies and peaceful views, Altamont is a popular launch site for gliders seeking smooth, relaxing flights.

Ashokan High Point (West Shokan, New York)

Nestled in the Catskills, this site offers great wind conditions and stunning mountain vistas, making it a favorite among hang gliders.

Bee Hill (Kerhonkson, New York)

Known for its open landscapes and favorable winds, Bee Hill is an excellent spot for advanced gliders looking for extended flights.

Brace Mountain (Millerton, New York)

Offering beautiful views and reliable flying conditions, Brace Mountain is one of the top hang gliding destinations in New York.

Bristol (South Bristol, New York)

This launch site provides great scenery and consistent winds for hang gliding.

Dansville (Dansville, New York)

Dansville is a well-known spot with open skies and favorable flying conditions.

Ellenville (Ellenville, New York)

One of the state’s most iconic hang gliding locations, Ellenville is celebrated for its consistent thermals and breathtaking views of the Shawangunk Ridge. It’s a top choice for gliders of all levels.

Finger Lakes Aerotow Park (Macedon, New York)

Perfect for aerotow launches, this park provides scenic flights over the picturesque Finger Lakes region.

Hammondsport/Mt. Washington (Hammondsport, New York)

This site provides hang gliders with stunning views over the Finger Lakes region.

Hancock (Hancock, New York)

A scenic location with open skies, great for long flights.

Harris Hill (Elmira, New York)

A historic site in gliding, Harris Hill boasts excellent thermals and a strong flying culture, making it a must-visit for enthusiasts.

Indian Cliffs (Elmira, New York)

Indian Cliffs is another great launch site near Elmira, offering favorable conditions for hang gliding.

Italy Valley (Italy, New York)

This picturesque site offers steady winds and a peaceful, rural setting for hang gliding.

Little Mountain (Olive, New York)

Little Mountain is a favored location for local gliders, offering great wind conditions and scenic views.

Katydid (Chemung, New York)

Katydid is another well-known hang gliding site, popular for its reliable conditions.

Mossy Banks (Bath, New York)

This site offers beautiful views and favorable flying conditions for hang gliders.

Mount Utsayantha (Stamford, New York)

A scenic launch site with great flying conditions and expansive views.

Overlook Mountain (Woodstock, New York)

Located near Woodstock, Overlook Mountain provides great flying conditions and views of the Hudson Valley.

Petersburgh Pass (Petersburgh, New York)

A beautiful launch site offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Sugarloaf Mountain (Warrensburg, New York)

Sugarloaf Mountain provides great views and conditions for hang gliders in the Adirondacks region.

Susquehanna Flight Park (Cooperstown, New York)

This launch site offers lessons and flights with spectacular views of the surrounding area.

West Mountain (Glens Falls, New York)

West Mountain is known for its high-altitude launches and beautiful views of the Adirondacks.

Whiteface Mountain (Wilmington, New York)

As one of New York’s highest peaks, Whiteface Mountain offers spectacular views and challenging conditions for advanced gliders.

Hang Gliding Companies in New York

Cooperstown Hang Gliding

• Website: www.cooperstownhanggliding.com
• Location: Susquehanna Flight Park, Cooperstown, New York
• Details: Located in the picturesque Cooperstown area, this company provides lessons and tandem flights for gliders of all levels.

Finger Lakes Aerotow Park

• Location: Macedon, New York
• Details: Specializing in aerotow flights, this park offers unique gliding experiences with stunning views of the Finger Lakes.

Fly High Hang Gliding

• Website: www.flyhighhg.com
• Location: 5163 Searsville Rd, Pine Bush, NY 12566
• Details: Fly High Hang Gliding offers lessons and scenic flights, showcasing the beauty of the Hudson Valley.

Mountain Wings

• Website: www.mtnwings.com
• Location: 77 Hang Glider Rd, Ellenville, NY 12428
• Details: As a premier hang gliding school, Mountain Wings provides lessons, tandem flights, and unforgettable gliding experiences at Ellenville.

Alternative Outdoor Activities in New York

Beyond hang gliding, New York offers a plethora of outdoor activities:

• Hiking:
  • Explore the Adirondacks for dramatic mountain views and challenging trails.
  • Traverse the Catskills for lush forests and scenic overlooks.
• Rock Climbing:
  • Head to Shawangunk Ridge, one of the world’s premier climbing destinations.
• Kayaking and Canoeing:
  • Paddle through the peaceful waters of the Hudson River.
  • Enjoy the tranquility of the Finger Lakes, surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards.

Safety Tips and Best Time to Visit

Best Time to Fly: Spring, summer, and fall offer the most favorable weather for hang gliding in New York, with mild temperatures and stable winds.

Safety Tips:

• Beginners should take lessons or tandem flights with certified instructors.
• Always check weather forecasts before planning your flight.
• Use well-maintained equipment and ensure it’s flight-ready.
• Follow all safety protocols and respect local regulations.

Conclusion

New York’s diverse hang gliding locations, from the rolling hills of Ellenville to the challenging heights of Whiteface Mountain, offer incredible opportunities for aerial enthusiasts. With professional companies like Mountain Wings and Cooperstown Hang Gliding providing lessons and tandem flights, the state ensures a safe and exhilarating experience for gliders of all skill levels. Whether you’re soaring above the Hudson Valley or gliding over the Finger Lakes, New York promises unforgettable adventures in the skies.

Hang Gliding in the United States: Choose a State