The Torrey Pines Gliderport

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My Paragliding Experience

That's me (and Max) in the air!

It was pretty surreal to actually do. Literally, you watch people launch by running towards the edge of the bluff, and then they just fly. The act looks so simple, yet it's completely incredile that it works. With a tad bit of apprehension mixed in with an abundance of excitement, I put on a helmet and strapped into gear.

My instructor, Max, was great. His very calm and friendly demeanor made the flight all the more enjoyable from the launch to the landing.

After reassuring me that I was harnessed in correctly he briefed me on the next step of the flight. He simply explained that we would launch in the same manner that I described above--by running off the edge of the bluff--and we did just that.

The transition from land to air was seemlessly smooth to the point where I almost had to pinch myself to believe it. Realizing that I was actually flying was slightly unnerving to begin with, which I suppose is natural for a creature that physically does not have the capacity to fly.

But after settling in, my breath was absolutley taken away by the gorgeous view and the feeling of being hundreds of feet in the air, by soaring above La Jolla in such a free fashion.

While in flight, I got a taste of two paragliding techniques as well: wing overs (essentially figure eights in the sky) and porpoise dives (pretty much slowing down in the air). They're both tools for serious paragliders, but for someone just trying it out they're just fun. You get a rush of adrenaline, a rollercoaster-esque feeling, from the turns and movement of the wing overs that makes the experience that much more exciting. I have to admit the porpoise dives were probably my favorite part of my time in the air. The slowing of forward motion causes you to swing in the air. Yes, swing. Like you would on a swingset, only the swing is free standing, much higher, and much more fun.

So for me, paragliding at the Torrey Pines Gliderport was a marvelous experience.

Later I was asked if I felt like a bird in flight. After a moment's reflection I responded no, I hadn't felt like a bird at all. I simply felt human, but in the most wonderful sense with the highest reverence for the products of human innovation.

I'd reccomend it to anyone who likes a bit of a rush and wants to try something new.

A note for those looking to try either sport out, the ability to fly is largely dependent on wind conditions, so it's a good idea to check with the Gliderport ahead of time.

Also, wear a windbreaker. It gets really cold up there!

Happy flying!