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Hang gliding in the Lone Star State is always an unforgettable experience. These are the best places to go gliding in Texas, both companies and launch sites.
As one of the biggest, most populated, and most visited states in the country, it seems that Texas has something for just about everyone. And thankfully for us, that includes some great companies and launch sites for hang gliding. So if you’re planning a trip down south, let’s make sure you know the best locations for hang gliding in Texas.
The best hang gliding locations in Texas are Fly Texas (Austin), Go Hang Gliding (Austin), Sand Hills of West Texas, Hill Country of Central Texas, Big Bend National Park, Cowboy Up! (Wharton), Lake Shore Hang Gliding (Conroe), Packsaddle (Kingsland), and Gorman (Granbury).
If you're looking for a new and exciting hang gliding experience, look no further than Texas! The Lone Star State is home to some of the best hang gliding locations in the country. From the rolling hills of Hill Country to the majestic views of Big Bend National Park, there's something for everyone in Texas. In this blog post, we'll discuss the best places to go hang gliding in the state. So pack your bags and get ready for an adventure!
Flight Notch was designed to be your one-stop shop for all things hang gliding. This includes, of course, the best places to fly. As part of our series to write about the best places to go hang gliding in every state, this one focuses on Texas. To ensure we got all of the best locations, we combined our own experience with input from other enthusiasts in the area.
Is Texas A Good Place To Go Hang Gliding?
Texas is one of the most popular states in the country for just about anything. Not only is it one of the most visited states, but it’s also the second biggest and second most populated. So yeah, it’s got something for everyone. And as I mentioned above, this includes some amazing hang gliding companies and launch sites for enthusiasts like you and me to take advantage of.
One of the best things about Texas for going hang gliding is the great weather that the state has for the vast majority of the year. It’s warm, relatively dry, and there’s more than enough wind and updraft to keep you aloft for extended periods of time. So if weather is one of your biggest concerns about going hang gliding (it should be!), then Texas should be near the top of your list.
To go along with the great weather, Texas also offers all sorts of amazing views that many other states in the country don’t offer. You’ll be able to see rolling hills, red rocks, coasts and shorelines, and even across the border into Mexico as you’re flying high above Texas. With this combination of breathtaking views and amazing weather, Texas is without a doubt one of the best places to go hang gliding in the United States.
Best Places To Go Hang Gliding In Texas
If there was ever any doubt in your mind that Texas wasn’t a good place to go hang gliding, I think by now I’ve squashed that notion. So now that you know how amazing of a hang gliding trip you can have in the Lone Star State, let’s get into what you’re really here for. Let’s take a look at some of the best hang gliding companies and launch sites in Texas.
Fly Texas — Austin
One of the best places in the Lone Star State that offers hang gliding lessons and plenty of opportunities to take to the skies is Fly Texas. Located in Austin, this company has a number of different programs to choose from and can accommodate all levels of hang gliding experience. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced pilot, Fly Texas has something for you.
The views from the top of Mt. Bonnell in Austin is simply amazing. You'll be able to see the cityscape sprawling out before you, as well as the Colorado River winding its way through the hills. The weather is usually good in the spring and summer, but can get a bit windier in fall and winter.
Nearby, you'll find plenty of other things to do such as visit the Lyndon B. Johnson Presidential Library or go shopping on South Congress Avenue. Additionally, Fly Texas offers tandem flights, which are a great way to experience hang gliding without having to learn how to do it yourself.
Go Hang Gliding — Austin
Another great company for hang gliding in the Austin area is Go Hang Gliding. Located just south of the city, this company offers tandem flights and lessons for all levels of experience. The views from their launch site are simply stunning, with panoramic views of the Texas Hill Country.
During the spring and summer, the weather is picture-perfect for hang gliding. You'll get lots of sunshine, clear skies, and temperatures in the 70s and 80s. However, the weather can get a bit chilly during the colder months of the year with temperatures dipping down into the 30s.
You'll find plenty of things to do in the area such as visit the Wildflower Center or go for a hike on the Barton Creek Greenbelt. There are also a number of restaurants and bars in the area for grabbing a bite to eat or enjoying a drink.
Sand Hills of West Texas
If you're looking for a more remote and desolate hang gliding experience, the Sand Hills of West Texas should be your destination. This area is known for its wide-open landscapes and stunning sunsets. While you're hang gliding, you'll get breathtaking views of the Davis Mountains and Big Bend National Park.
The weather in this part of Texas is usually mild, with temperatures in the spring and summer months typically ranging from the mid-70s to the low 90s. However, it can get a bit windier in fall and winter. During the cooler months, you may also see a bit of snow.
Nearby, you'll find the quaint town of Marfa, which is home to some excellent art galleries and restaurants. There are also plenty of outdoor activities to take part in, such as hiking and camping.
Hill Country of Central Texas
If you're looking for a more pastoral hang gliding experience, the Hill Country of Central Texas is the place to go. This area is known for its rolling hills and picturesque vineyards. The views from the top of a hill are simply stunning, and you'll be able to see for miles in every direction.
The weather is usually good in the spring and summer, but it can get a bit windier in fall and winter. Additionally, the Hill Country is known for its occasional thunderstorms. In terms of temperatures, expect it to be in the mid-70s to the low 90s in the spring and summer, and in the 50s and 60s during fall and winter.
When you’re done hang gliding for the day, you can also visit the LBJ Ranch or go wine tasting in Fredericksburg. There are also a number of small towns in the area that are worth exploring. Central Texas has all sorts of amazing things to see and do, so don’t be afraid to spend some time just exploring and having fun!
Big Bend National Park
If you're looking for an epic hang gliding experience, look no further than Big Bend National Park. This park is home to some of the most stunning views in the state, and you'll be able to see for miles in every direction. The landscapes are varied and include everything from mountains to deserts to canyons.
The weather in Big Bend National Park is extremely varied, and you can experience all four seasons in a single day. The temperatures range from the low 20s to the high 90s, and it can get windy at any time of year. Additionally, Big Bend is known for its dramatic thunderstorms during certain times of the year, so be sure to check the weather carefully before heading out for any flights.
In the area surrounding the park, you can do all sorts of fun outdoor adventures such as hiking, camping, and fishing. There's also a visitors center in the park with exhibits about the history and geology of the area.
Cowboy Up! — Wharton
Perhaps the most well-known place to go hang gliding in all of Texas is Cowboy Up!, located in Wharton, which is just outside of Houston. This company offers tandem hang gliding flights, so you can experience the thrill of hang gliding with a friend.
The views from Cowboy Up! are simply amazing, and you'll be able to see for miles in every direction. Additionally, the company is located close to some other popular attractions, such as the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo and the San Antonio RiverWalk.
The weather at Cowboy Up! is usually good, with temperatures in the spring and summer months typically ranging from the mid-70s to the low 90s. However, it can get a bit windier and much more cool in fall and winter -- sometimes dipping into the 30s and 40s. Additionally, it's important to note that the winds at this location are notoriously unpredictable.
Nearby, you'll find plenty of other things to do such as visit the Houston Zoo or go shopping at The Galleria. There are also a number of great restaurants in the area.
Lake Shore Hang Gliding — Conroe
If you're looking for a more secluded hang gliding experience, Lake Shore Hang Gliding is the perfect spot. This company is located in Conroe, which is about an hour north of Houston. Here, you'll be able to experience the beauty of the Texas countryside as you glide over the lake.
The views from Lake Shore Hang Gliding are simply amazing. You'll be able to see the lake below you and the surrounding hills and forests. On a clear day, you can even see as far as Houston. The weather here is usually good in the spring and summer when you can expect temperatures to be in the 70s and 80s. However, it can get a little colder in the fall and winter, with temperatures usually in the 50s or 60s.
Conroe is also a great place to visit if you're looking for something else to do. There are plenty of restaurants and shops here, as well as some historical landmarks. If you're a nature lover, you'll also enjoy the nearby Sam Houston National Forest.
Packsaddle — Kingsland
If you're looking for a more exciting hang gliding experience, Packsaddle in Kingsland is the place to go. This spot is known for its extreme winds and updrafts, which make for an exhilarating ride. Packsaddle is located about an hour and a half north of Austin. The views from here are simply stunning, with rolling hills and picturesque lakes dotting the landscape. The average weather in spring and summer is warm and sunny, making it a great spot to go hang gliding year-round.
From Packsaddle, you'll be able to see Lake LBJ and the surrounding countryside. The area is also home to several other popular tourist destinations, such as the Longhorn Caverns and the Enchanted Rock State Natural Area. There's plenty to do in the area when you're not hang gliding, so be sure to check it out!
Gorman — Granbury
If you're looking for a more serene hang gliding experience, Gorman in Granbury is a great option. This spot is known for its gentle breezes and stunning views of the Brazos River Valley. Gorman is located about an hour southwest of Fort Worth.
The average weather in spring and summer is warm and sunny, making it a great spot to go hang gliding year-round. During the warmer months, temperatures range from the mid-70s to the low 90s. In fall and winter, the average temperature is in the 50s.
From Gorman, you'll be able to see the river valley and the surrounding countryside. The area is also home to several other popular tourist destinations, such as the Lake Granbury State Park and the Brazos River Authority. There's plenty to do in the area when you're not hang gliding, so be sure to check it out!