Hang Gliding in Utah: Best Spots and Companies

Utah’s breathtaking landscapes, ranging from towering mountains to vast deserts, make it a premier destination for hang gliding enthusiasts. With numerous scenic launch sites and top-tier companies offering lessons and tandem flights, Utah caters to both beginners and experienced gliders. Whether you’re soaring above the iconic Point of the Mountain or exploring remote high-altitude sites, the state promises unforgettable flying experiences.

Top Hang Gliding Locations in Utah

Black Mountain (Delle, Utah)

Overlooking the Great Salt Lake Desert, Black Mountain offers steady winds and reliable thermals, making it a favorite among seasoned gliders seeking expansive views of the arid landscape.

‘C’ Launch (Cedar City, Utah)

This launch site near Cedar City provides excellent flying conditions and stunning views of Utah’s diverse terrain, from rugged mountains to serene valleys.

Camels (Springville, Utah)

Located in Springville, Camels boasts favorable winds and picturesque valley views, making it an accessible site for hang gliders of all levels.

Commodore (Stockton, Utah)

Commodore is a go-to spot for hang gliders, offering open skies, consistent thermals, and plenty of room to launch and land safely.

Crawford Mountain (Randolph, Utah)

This scenic site is popular for its beautiful landscapes and steady flying conditions, providing a serene setting for memorable flights.

Graff Point (Cedar City, Utah)

Another gem near Cedar City, Graff Point features scenic vistas and dependable thermals, ideal for long, peaceful glides.

Hell Hole (Wasatch National Forest, Utah)

Situated in the rugged Wasatch National Forest, Hell Hole offers adventurous gliders a challenging yet rewarding flying experience.

Horse Heaven (Levan, Utah)

Known for its steady winds and panoramic views, Horse Heaven is a great launch site for gliders who appreciate peaceful, scenic flights.

Inspiration Point (Orem, Utah)

With breathtaking views of the Utah Valley, Inspiration Point combines excellent flying conditions with dramatic scenery, attracting both locals and visitors.

Jedi (Grantsville, Utah)

This popular site offers reliable conditions for both beginners and advanced gliders, with stunning views of Utah’s diverse landscapes.

Junction (Junction, Utah)

A remote site known for its excellent conditions, Junction provides gliders with long, scenic flights over Utah’s pristine wilderness.

Molly’s Nipple (Hurricane, Utah)

This uniquely named site in southern Utah features consistent wind conditions and incredible views, making it a favorite for adventurous gliders.

Monroe Peak (Monroe, Utah)

As one of Utah’s highest-altitude launch sites, Monroe Peak offers exceptional thermals and panoramic views of the surrounding mountain ranges.

Point of the Mountain (Draper, Utah)

Arguably the most famous hang gliding site in the United States, Point of the Mountain is renowned for its world-class flying conditions and vibrant community of gliders. Its gentle slopes make it ideal for beginners, while its thermals attract seasoned pilots.

The Ranch (Toquerville, Utah)

Located in southern Utah, The Ranch offers open spaces and favorable flying conditions, perfect for relaxed and scenic gliding experiences.

Wales (Wales, Utah)

Wales provides a peaceful flying environment with scenic rural landscapes, making it a charming spot for a day of hang gliding.

Hang Gliding Companies in Utah

Altair Hang Gliding

• Location: 12379 S 265 W, Draper, Utah 84020
• Details: Altair Hang Gliding specializes in professional training and experiences, offering lessons and tandem flights in the Draper area.

Birdman Academy Hang Gliding LLC

• Website: www.birdmanacademy.net
• Details: This academy provides comprehensive lessons and tandem flights across some of Utah’s most scenic locations.

Cloud 9 Toys

• Website: www.paragliders.com
• Location: 12665 Minuteman Dr #1, Draper, Utah 84020
• Details: In addition to hang gliding and paragliding equipment, Cloud 9 Toys offers lessons and flights, making it a one-stop shop for aerial enthusiasts.

Hang Glide Utah!

• Location: Salt Lake City, Utah 84105
• Details: Hang Glide Utah! provides personalized experiences for hang gliders in the Salt Lake City area, perfect for those looking to explore the skies.

Super Fly Paragliding

• Website: www.superflyinc.com
• Location: 8683 Sandy Parkway, Sandy, Utah 84070
• Details: Super Fly Paragliding offers gear, lessons, and flights for both paragliders and hang gliders, based in Sandy.

Wings Over Wasatch

• Website: www.wingsoverwasatch.com
• Location: 560 N 300 W, American Fork, Utah 84003
• Details: This company provides professional training, equipment rentals, and scenic flights in the stunning Wasatch Range.

Alternative Outdoor Activities in Utah

Utah’s outdoor adventures extend far beyond hang gliding:

• Hiking:
  • Explore iconic trails in Zion National Park.
  • Discover the otherworldly landscapes of Arches National Park.
• Mountain Biking:
  • Ride through the rugged terrain of Moab.
  • Experience the pristine trails of Park City.
• Rock Climbing:
  • Challenge yourself at Little Cottonwood Canyon.
  • Test your skills at Indian Creek’s famous sandstone walls.

Safety Tips and Best Time to Visit

Best Time to Fly: Spring and fall provide the most favorable conditions for hang gliding in Utah, with mild temperatures and steady winds.

Safety Tips:

• Wear appropriate clothing to adapt to changing temperatures at high altitudes.
• Always check weather conditions before flying.
• Ensure your equipment is in excellent condition.
• Follow safety protocols provided by instructors.

Conclusion

Utah stands out as a premier hang gliding destination, offering diverse landscapes and exceptional flying conditions. From the world-famous Point of the Mountain to high-altitude sites like Monroe Peak, the state provides opportunities for gliders of all levels. With companies like Altair Hang Gliding and Wings Over Wasatch, adventurers can enjoy professional instruction and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re soaring above deserts or mountains, Utah promises a truly unique perspective of its stunning natural beauty.

Hang Gliding in the United States: Choose a State