Paragliding in California

About 160 known flying sites, three distinct terrain types, and a pilot community that will tell you California is the best place to fly in North America. Torrey Pines Gliderport has been flying since the 1930s and is still the most reliable coastal ridge soaring in the country, running tandems all day above the La Jolla cliffs. Crestline and Marshall behind San Bernardino are the state's cross-country engine, launching flights well over 100 miles. The Owens Valley behind Bishop is the legendary XC arena where world distance records were set, with Walt's Point launching at 9,000 feet. The Bay Area flies Mussel Rock, Ed Levin and Mount Tam; Santa Barbara's Elings Park is the classic teaching hill; and Big Sur, Dockweiler, Marina State Beach and Slide Mountain round it out. Filter by tier, first-timer access, tandem operations and schools.