Hang Gliding in Texas: Best Spots and Companies

With its wide-open skies, diverse landscapes, and favorable weather, Texas offers exceptional opportunities for hang gliding enthusiasts. From dramatic desert canyons to rolling Hill Country, Texas caters to both beginners and experienced gliders with its variety of scenic launch sites and professional hang gliding companies.

Top Hang Gliding Locations in Texas

Outer Banks (Dallas-Fort Worth area)

This popular site near the bustling Dallas-Fort Worth metro area is known for its expansive open skies and consistent wind conditions, making it a great spot for gliders of all levels.

Big Bend National Park

In western Texas, Big Bend’s vast desert landscapes and reliable wind conditions provide the perfect backdrop for soaring flights. The rugged terrain and breathtaking views make it a bucket-list destination for adventure seekers.

Palo Duro Canyon (Texas Panhandle)

Often called the “Grand Canyon of Texas,” Palo Duro Canyon offers stunning red rock vistas and consistent thermals, ideal for long, scenic flights over the dramatic landscape.

Marble Falls (Austin area)

This Hill Country site is popular for its steady thermals and picturesque surroundings, offering a mix of accessibility and scenic beauty for both beginners and advanced gliders.

Packsaddle (Kingsland, Texas)

Packsaddle is a hidden gem in the Texas Hill Country, providing excellent flying conditions and stunning views of rolling hills and rivers.

Hang Gliding Companies in Texas

Fly Texas

• Website: www.flytexas.com
• Location: 4811 Red River, Austin, Texas 78751
• Details: Based in Austin, Fly Texas offers comprehensive lessons, tandem flights, and gear rentals. Their experienced team helps gliders explore the Texas skies safely and confidently.

Cowboy Up Hang Gliding

• Website: www.cuhanggliding.com
• Location: 714 Robert Vonderau Road, Wharton, Texas 77488
• Details: Located near Houston, Cowboy Up Hang Gliding offers professional lessons and tandem flights. With a focus on safety, they provide thrilling flights over Texas’ beautiful landscapes.

Go Hang Gliding

• Website: www.flymexico.com
• Location: 4811 Red River Street, Austin, Texas 78751
• Details: Specializing in tandem flights over the Austin area, Go Hang Gliding combines stunning views with expert instruction, making it perfect for first-time flyers.

Hang Dog

• Website: www.hangdogproductions.com
• Location: Grayson County Airport (near Sherman, Texas)
• Details: Offering lessons and flights in northern Texas, Hang Dog provides a thrilling experience for hang gliders seeking open skies and reliable conditions.

Indian Creek Airpark

• Location: Dallas-Fort Worth Area
• Details: Indian Creek Airpark offers private hang gliding opportunities for enthusiasts looking to take flight near the DFW metroplex.

Kite Enterprises Hang Gliding & Paragliding

• Website: www.kite-enterprises.com
• Location: Allen, Texas (north of Dallas)
• Details: Based north of Dallas, Kite Enterprises offers lessons, equipment rentals, and hang gliding and paragliding experiences for aspiring pilots.

Lake Shore Hang Gliding

• Website: www.lakeshorehg.com
• Location: Lake Conroe, Texas
• Details: Situated near Lake Conroe, this company provides coastal flights, lessons, and rentals in a relaxed yet professional environment.

Ultralight America

• Website: www.ultralightamerica.com
• Location: 38655 Menke Road, Hempstead, Texas 77445
• Details: Based near Houston, Ultralight America offers ultralight aviation and hang gliding experiences, including lessons and equipment rentals.

Alternative Outdoor Activities in Texas

For adventurers looking to diversify their experiences, Texas offers plenty of outdoor activities:

• Hiking:
  • Trek through the trails of Big Bend National Park.
  • Explore the rugged beauty of Guadalupe Mountains National Park.
• Rock Climbing:
  • Challenge yourself at Enchanted Rock State Natural Area.
  • Tackle the unique climbing routes at Hueco Tanks.
• Kayaking and Canoeing:
  • Paddle along the scenic Rio Grande.
  • Enjoy the serene waters of the Colorado River.

Safety Tips and Best Time to Visit

Best Time to Fly: Spring and fall are the most favorable seasons for hang gliding in Texas, offering mild weather and stable wind conditions.

Safety Tips:

• Stay hydrated and wear sunscreen, especially in Texas’ hotter regions.
• Always check weather conditions before heading out.
• Use well-maintained gear and ensure proper inspections before flights.
• Follow instructions from certified instructors to maximize safety and enjoyment.

Conclusion

Texas offers a wealth of opportunities for hang gliding enthusiasts, from soaring over the dramatic landscapes of Palo Duro Canyon to gliding above the Hill Country near Austin. With reputable companies like Fly Texas and Cowboy Up Hang Gliding, newcomers and seasoned pilots alike can enjoy safe and thrilling flights. Beyond hang gliding, Texas’ diverse outdoor activities make it a paradise for adventure seekers eager to explore the Lone Star State from every angle.

Hang Gliding in the United States: Choose a State