Paragliding in Park City, Utah: Best Launch Sites, Tandem Flights & Tips for Beginners
Alright, picture this—you’re standing on the edge of a mountain in Park City, Utah. Your feet are nervously shuffling on the dusty launchpad. A professional guide is strapping you into what basically feels like a glorified camping chair with wings, and you’re wondering, “Is this actually safe?” Then suddenly, whoosh!—you’re airborne, gliding smoothly over pine-covered peaks, breathing in fresh alpine air, and yelling, “THIS IS INSANE!” in the best way possible.
Welcome to the magical, mildly terrifying, completely addictive world of paragliding in Park City.
As someone who’s taken to the skies more times than I’ve remembered to bring sunscreen (read: a lot), I’m here to give you the ultimate guide to the best places to paraglide in Park City, plus tips, stories, and why your stomach will thank you for not eating a burrito beforehand.
Why Paragliding in Park City is Next-Level Awesome
Park City isn’t just a skier’s paradise or home to those “I swear I saw that actor in a beanie” moments during Sundance. It’s also an absolute paragliding playground with:
- High-altitude launch points (read: more airtime!)
- Reliable wind and thermals
- 360° jaw-dropping mountain views
- Enough natural beauty to make you consider quitting your job and becoming a bird
Best Places to Paraglide in Park City
Let’s get to the good stuff. Here are the top launch sites you need to check out (and maybe scream off of).
1. Jupiter Peak – The King of Views
Altitude: 10,000+ feet
Experience level: Intermediate to Advanced (or really brave beginners)
This is where you go when you want to really fly. The takeoff feels like you’re stepping straight into the sky. And the views? Chef’s kiss. Think rolling ridges, snow-dusted peaks, and the kind of scenery that makes you forget you left the oven on.
Pro tip: The hike up here is no joke. Pack light, hydrate like a camel, and reward yourself with mid-air snacks. (Trail mix mid-flight is elite.)
2. Summit Park – Chill Vibes Only
Altitude: ~7,000 feet
Experience level: Beginner to Intermediate
Summit Park is like that cool, low-key friend who always brings snacks and good energy. It’s a popular tandem flight spot thanks to smooth air, easy access, and plenty of space for safe takeoffs and landings.
Bonus: you get amazing views of the highway curling through the mountains. It’s like looking at your GPS from space.
3. Deer Valley – Fancy Views, Smooth Rides
Altitude: Varies by launch site
Experience level: All levels (and all income levels if you survive the nearby burger prices)
You might know Deer Valley for its luxury ski scene and après-ski hot chocolate that costs more than your rent. But it’s also a fantastic paragliding site. Gentle terrain, predictable winds, and—you guessed it—scenery that’ll make your Instagram followers question their life choices.
Guardsman Pass – Wild and Wonderful
Altitude: High enough to feel alive
Experience level: Intermediate and up
This one’s a bit off the beaten path. Guardsman Pass offers remote, rugged terrain and big open skies—ideal for paragliders who like a little adventure and don’t mind sharing airspace with the occasional hawk.
Bring layers, check wind reports twice, and maybe bring a buddy. You don’t want to be that guy who forgot where the landing zone is.
Tandem Paragliding Companies You Can Trust (With Your Life, Literally)
Unless you’re a licensed solo pilot (and if you are, hats off to you, Maverick), you’ll likely be flying tandem with an instructor. Lucky for us, Park City has some fantastic, friendly, and extremely qualified operators:
1. Utah Tandem Paragliding
These folks know their stuff—and they somehow make you feel relaxed even while you’re literally strapped to them flying off a cliff.
- Vibe: Professional, safe, with a dash of dad jokes
- Locations: Summit Park, and occasionally Point of the Mountain
- Extra coolness: They offer photo/video packages so you can prove to everyone that you did something epic (or at least survived)
2. Cloud 9 Paragliding
Don’t let the name fool you—these instructors keep your feet (and your glider) firmly grounded in solid technique before you launch.
- Vibe: Calm, confident, “I’ve done this 1,000 times and I’m still having fun”
- Ideal for: Nervous flyers who need a little extra hand-holding—and maybe a quick pep talk
When’s the Best Time to Go Paragliding?
Short answer: When you won’t freeze mid-air.
Long answer:
- Best season: Late May to early October
- Best time of day: Early morning or late afternoon (gentle winds, better light, less chance of being caught in a squirrel-sized tornado)
- Avoid: Midday heat, afternoon storms, and that one weird week in July when everyone forgets how thermals work
What to Expect on Your First Flight (aka, Don’t Panic)
So you’ve booked your tandem flight—congrats! Here’s what’s coming:
- Arrival: You’ll meet your instructor, who will somehow be both incredibly relaxed and holding 40 pounds of gear.
- Safety briefing: Short, clear, and surprisingly reassuring.
- Harness up: Straps everywhere, but you’ll feel like a flying ninja.
- The takeoff: A few brisk steps and then—suddenly—you’re airborne, floating above the mountains like a dandelion seed on vacation.
What to wear:
- Layers (it’s cooler up there)
- Sneakers or hiking shoes (no flip-flops, unless you want to donate them to the trees below)
- Sunglasses with a strap (or bring spares… trust me)
Tips for First-Time Flyers
- Say YES when they ask if you want tricks. Barrel rolls are life-changing.
- Don’t eat a huge meal beforehand. Save the burrito for your post-flight celebration.
- Bring a GoPro or rent theirs. Your future self will thank you.
- Trust your pilot. These folks are certified sky-wizards.
What Makes Park City Unique for Paragliding?
- The scenery. It’s like gliding through a Bob Ross painting.
- The altitude. Higher jumps = longer rides.
- Wildlife spotting. Deer, elk, moose, and one very confused squirrel have all been sighted from the air.
- Post-flight snacks. The local cafés and bakeries are worth landing for.
Frequently Asked Questions (Because You’re Not Alone)
Is it safe?
Yes! Tandem paragliding is super safe when done with certified instructors in proper conditions. Way safer than skiing with your eyes closed. (Don’t do that, by the way.)
What’s the weight limit?
Usually around 240–270 lbs. Always check with your provider before booking.
Can kids do it?
Yep, as long as they meet the minimum weight (usually around 65 lbs). Flying before your 10th birthday? Iconic.
Can I fly if I’m scared of heights?
Weirdly, yes! Many people who fear heights are totally fine paragliding. Something about being suspended in the air just feels different than looking down from a tall building.
Final Thoughts: Just Jump (With a Paraglider, Please)
Paragliding in Park City is one of those “bucket list” experiences that delivers every time. The combo of thrill, views, and fresh mountain air will have you buzzing for days. So whether you’re a total beginner or just looking for a new sky-high adventure, grab your sense of adventure (and maybe a granola bar) and take the leap.
Trust me—you’ve never seen Utah like this.
