Your Ultimate Jackson Hole Paragliding Adventure: Locations, Tours & More
Okay, let’s cut to the chase:
If you’ve ever dreamed of throwing yourself off a mountain (safely!) while being strapped to what looks like an extremely fancy picnic blanket, paragliding in Jackson Hole is calling your name. Loudly. With megaphones.
Nestled in the ridiculously gorgeous arms of the Teton Range, Jackson Hole isn’t just for cowboys, skiers, and wildlife enthusiasts — it’s also a sweet playground for anyone who wants to swap walking for soaring.
Buckle up (literally) because we’re about to dive into everything you need to know to take flight — spots, tours, tips, laughs, and even a few survival pro tips so your adventure is more “majestic soaring eagle” and less “awkward lawn dart.”
Why Paragliding in Jackson Hole Is Basically The Best Idea Ever
Let’s be real. There are few things cooler than running off a mountain and flying like nature intended (except nature didn’t exactly give us wings — minor detail). Jackson Hole serves up:
- Epic views: Grand Teton looking all photogenic like it’s posing for a magazine cover.
- Ideal flying conditions: Smooth thermals, clear skies, and just enough altitude to keep your heart pounding.
- Professional guides: Who literally do everything while you just sit there screaming joyfully.
Jackson Hole isn’t just paragliding — it’s floating inside a live-action nature documentary while bald eagles nod at you in approval.
The Best Places to Go Paragliding in Jackson Hole (aka Where to Jump Off Stuff)
Snow King Mountain: The Local Favorite
- Where it’s at: Downtown Jackson (yes, you can paraglide while basically waving at tourists below)
- Perfect for: First-timers, tandem flights, people who enjoy living
- Bonus: Chairlift ride up, chill hike, then run off the side of a mountain (casual)
This is where most people get their first taste of human flight. It’s beginner-friendly, extremely scenic, and offers a perfect mix of safety and adrenaline. You’ll soar above the town, float over trees, and maybe spot a moose (from a safe, non-moose-trampling distance).
Teton Village: The Big League
- Where it’s at: Jackson Hole Mountain Resort (Rendezvous Mountain)
- Perfect for: Advanced pilots and overachievers who want “the shot”
- Bonus: Insane views of the Tetons right in your face
While most tourists stick to Snow King, experienced pilots drool over Teton Village. With serious altitude and backdrops that look Photoshopped, this spot delivers the chef’s kiss of paragliding thrills. Warning: your Instagram followers may block you out of sheer jealousy.
Curtis Canyon: The Hidden Gem
- Where it’s at: East of Jackson, near National Elk Refuge
- Perfect for: Experienced pilots who don’t like an audience
- Bonus: Total solitude, panoramic views, and you might even spot a herd of elk giving you side-eye
Curtis Canyon is like the VIP lounge for seasoned paragliders. You’ll need your own gear, solid experience, and a healthy respect for mountain weather. But once you’re airborne, you’ll feel like you’ve discovered paragliding’s best-kept secret.
Best Paragliding Tour Companies (aka The People Who Stop You from Accidentally Becoming a Kite)
Unless you’ve got your own wing and nerves of titanium, you’ll want to fly tandem with a certified pro. These companies have you covered:
Jackson Hole Paragliding
- Basecamp: Snow King Mountain
- Perks: Tandem flights, lessons, safety like grandma would approve of
- Price Tag: Around $345 per tandem flight (yes, worth every penny)
They’ve been helping folks pretend to be birds for years. Friendly instructors, great safety records, and a smooth process from “OMG I’m scared” to “OMG I want to do this again.”
Teton Paragliding School
- Basecamp: Teton Village
- Perks: Instruction for pilots who want to ditch the tandem and fly solo
- Perfect for: Those ready to level up their sky game
If you’ve got the flying bug bad, these guys can turn you from passenger to pilot in a safe, structured course. Bonus: no boring classrooms — your classroom is literally the sky.
When to Go: The Good, The Better, and The Nope
| Season | Vibes | Why or Why Not |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (April-May) | Maybe | Snow’s melting, weather’s weird, could be epic or meh |
| Summer (June-August) | YES PLEASE | Blue skies, warm air, awesome thermals |
| Fall (Sept-Oct) | Gorgeous | Crisp air, golden aspens, slightly cooler but stunning |
| Winter (Nov-Mar) | Nope | You’ve got skis for a reason |
Pro tip: Fly early in the morning for the calmest air and the kind of sunrise views that make grown men weep.
But Wait — Let’s Talk Safety (Because Gravity is Still a Thing)
- Certified instructors only, folks.
- Dress for altitude — it’s chillier up there than you think.
- Leave your loose items (and existential dread) behind.
- Tell your instructor if you get motion sick easily (they’ve seen it all).
And remember: your instructor wants to land safely too. They’re highly motivate
“But I’m a Total Noob — Can I Still Fly?”
YES. Tandem paragliding is made for you.
- No experience needed
- You sit comfortably while your instructor handles the hard stuff
- Your only job: enjoy the ride, try not to scream too loud, and maybe snap a selfie
Even if you’re scared of heights, you’ll be surprised how chill (and addicting) paragliding feels. You’re not plummeting — you’re floating.
Pro-Level Paragliding (For The Sky-Nerds)
For those who eat thermals for breakfast:
- P2 and above pilots can get access to incredible XC (cross-country) routes.
- Local clubs like Jackson Hole Free Flight Club help with community, advice, and meetups.
- Permits may be required for certain areas near national parks — plan ahead.
Quickfire Tips So You Don’t Embarrass Yourself
- Book early — summer slots fill up fast.
- Mornings = smoother flights.
- Bring a GoPro — but strap it down tight.
- Closed-toe shoes are your friend.
- Light breakfast. Nobody wants mid-air pancakes making a return appearance.
Make It a Full Jackson Hole Adventure
You flew. Now what?
- Visit Grand Teton National Park — jaw = dropped.
- Yellowstone is an hour away — geysers, bison, drama.
- Whitewater raft the Snake River.
- Grab burgers at The Million Dollar Cowboy Bar and act like a local.
Quick FAQs (Because You Know You Were Wondering)
Q: Is paragliding scary?
A: Only for 3 seconds before you lift off — then it’s oddly peaceful.
Q: Do I need any training?
A: Not for tandem flights! Just listen to your instructor and enjoy.
Q: Can kids do it?
A: Many companies allow kids 12+ if they meet weight requirements.
Q: Will I throw up?
A: Unlikely. But maybe skip the breakfast burrito.
Final Words Before You Fly
If you’re looking for a life-highlight kind of adventure, paragliding in Jackson Hole will absolutely deliver. The views? Insane. The adrenaline? Real. The bragging rights? Off the charts.
So book your flight, slap on your windbreaker, and get ready to live your best bird-life fantasy. The Tetons are waiting, and trust me — you’ll never forget that first step into the sky.
