ROCK SPORTS:
Rock Climbing  |  Caving

AIR SPORTS:
Hang Gliding & Paragliding  |  Gliding & Microlighting  |  Ballooning & Parascending

WATER SPORTS:
Waterways  |  Canoeing & Kayaking  |  Sailing  |  Surfing  |  Fishing  |  Watersports Centres

ON FOOT:
Distance Walking  |  Festivals  |  Geocaching  |  Orienteering  |  Fell Running  |  Activity Centres  |  Safety Information

ON WHEELS:
Beginners Cycle Routes  |  Longer Cycling Adventures  |  Mountain Biking

HORSE RIDING:
Trails  |  Riding Centres

EASY ACCESS:
Routes & Experiences

Week 27 - Air Sports

Level of Fitness
Red

The Experience
The sport of paragliding has come a long way from the early days of a few hops whilst sprinting down steep hills.

Flights of up to 100km lasting 5 or 6 hours are regularly made in the UK and the Dales is one of the best areas in the country for it.

Paragliders fit in a rucksack and consist of a comfortable harness for the pilot suspended below an arc of cloth that's inflated by moving forward into wind.

They fly in light winds and are controlled by two brake lines and the weight shift of the pilot.

First thing's first, this is flying so training is definitely needed. There are several schools in the area that provide all the tuition you need to fly by yourself.

Often you could be flying solo within eight days and they supply all the equipment you need to get you started.  You can take a day’s course first to see if you like the activity before committing to a longer course.

Have a go
The flying season is mainly March to October. 
To see courses in the region, click here or here.

Find out more
Find out more about the sport and how to take it up on Dales Hang Gliding and Paragliding Club website