North Carolina offers diverse hang gliding experiences, from coastal dunes to mountainous launch sites. With companies providing lessons and tandem flights, North Carolina is a great state for both beginners and experienced gliders.
Top Hang Gliding Locations in North Carolina
Jockey’s Ridge (Nags Head, North Carolina)
One of the most iconic spots, Jockey’s Ridge provides excellent conditions for beginner hang gliders with its sandy dunes and coastal views.
Moore Mountain (Alexander County, North Carolina)
This location offers more advanced gliders scenic views and consistent winds.
Pinnacle Mountain (Rutherford County, North Carolina)
A great spot for experienced gliders looking for long flights and stunning views of the mountains.
Hang Gliding Companies in North Carolina
Foothills Flight Park
- Website: www.hang-glide.tripod.com
- Location: Hiddenite, North Carolina
- Details: Foothills Flight Park offers hang gliding lessons and flights for both beginners and advanced gliders in the Hiddenite area.
Kitty Hawk Kites Inc.
- Website: www.kittyhawk.com
- Location: Nags Head, North Carolina
- Details: Kitty Hawk Kites is the premier hang gliding company in North Carolina, offering lessons, tandem flights, and training at Jockey’s Ridge, one of the best spots for beginner gliders.
Southern Skies
- Website: www.southernskies.net
- Location: Taylorsville, North Carolina
- Details: Southern Skies provides hang gliding experiences and lessons in the Taylorsville area, perfect for adventurers looking to soar over the foothills.
Thermal Valley Hang Gliding
- Website: www.thermalvalley.net
- Location: Lenoir, North Carolina
- Details: Thermal Valley offers tandem flights and lessons with breathtaking views over the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Alternative Outdoor Activities in North Carolina
North Carolina offers a variety of other outdoor adventures:
- Hiking: Explore trails in Great Smoky Mountains National Park or Pisgah National Forest.
- Mountain Biking: Ride through the trails at DuPont State Forest and Tsali Recreation Area.
- Fishing and Boating: Head to Fontana Lake or Lake Norman for water activities.
- Rock Climbing: Try climbing at Looking Glass Rock or Rumbling Bald.
Safety Tips and Best Time to Visit
The best time for hang gliding in North Carolina is during the spring and fall when temperatures are mild, and wind conditions are favorable. Always ensure proper safety measures are in place and check the weather before flying.
Conclusion
North Carolina offers a range of hang gliding experiences, from the beginner-friendly dunes of Jockey’s Ridge to the mountainous launch points at Pinnacle and Moore Mountain. With companies like Kitty Hawk Kites and Thermal Valley Hang Gliding, gliders of all levels can enjoy breathtaking views and safe flying experiences.
Hang Gliding in the US – Choose a State
- Alabama
- Alaska
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- Florida
- Georgia
- Hawaii
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Vermont
- Virginia
- Washington
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
