The Ultimate Sky Adventure in Washington State

If you’ve ever dreamed of soaring like an eagle over the Pacific Northwest — wind rushing past, clouds gliding beneath, and the green wilderness stretching for miles — it’s time to make it happen. Washington isn’t just a hiker’s paradise or a road-tripper’s dream; it’s also one of the most stunning places in America to take flight.

Whether you’re chasing thermals above the Palouse, gliding off a mountaintop near Seattle, or free-falling from 13,000 feet over the Snohomish River Valley, this guide covers the best hang gliding, paragliding, and skydiving spots in Washington State — with everything you need to plan the perfect sky-high adventure.

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Hang Gliding & Paragliding in Washington

Steptoe Butte State Park

There’s a reason seasoned gliders call Steptoe Butte 'the cathedral of the Palouse.' This 3,600-foot rise offers breathtaking 360° views of rolling wheat fields and some of the best thermals in the state. On a clear day, the world below looks like a patchwork quilt of gold and green — and from above, you’ll feel like you’ve discovered true freedom.

Directions:

Steptoe Butte State Park is located just south of Colfax. A paved road leads to the summit, but launch access and conditions are best suited for experienced pilots familiar with wind patterns in the Palouse.

What to Expect:

Flights here are powerful and technical. You’ll feel the lift almost immediately as warm air rises off the farmland below. This is not a beginner site, but for seasoned pilots, it’s pure magic.

Amenities:

• Parking at the summit

• No rentals or instruction on site

• No restrooms at launch

• Bring everything you need

Gear That Makes a Difference:

A portable windsock with pole is essential here to read shifting winds before launch. Pilots often rely on high-strength carabiners, a compression bag for transport, and a hydration pack for long flights and warm eastern Washington days. Reliable outdoor sunglasses help manage glare reflecting off the fields below.

Tiger Mountain State Forest

Poo Poo Point

If you’ve ever driven I-90 and looked up to see colorful wings floating above the trees, you were probably looking at Poo Poo Point. This is the heart of Washington’s paragliding scene and one of the most accessible launch points near Seattle.

Directions:

Trailheads are located near Issaquah. Most pilots hike up, while others access authorized launch routes depending on conditions.

What to Expect:

This is a mix of tandem beginner flights and advanced solo glides. Expect smooth launches, coastal air influence, and jaw-dropping views over Lake Sammamish and the Seattle skyline.

Amenities:

• Nearby flight schools and tandem operators

• Parking at trailheads

• No facilities at launch

• Easy access to food and lodging in Issaquah

Paragliding-Specific Gear:

A paragliding harness provides comfort and safety during longer glides, while a paraglider quick packing bag makes the hike down much easier. Lightweight paragliding gloves, polarized sunglasses, and a windproof outdoor jacket are essential for changing alpine temperatures.

Skydiving in Washington State

Skydive Snohomish

Just 20 miles north of Seattle, Skydive Snohomish is the top-rated drop zone in the Pacific Northwest. The plane ride up is scenic, but the real magic starts at 13,000 feet when you step into the open air and feel gravity take over. The snow-capped Cascades and winding river below make this one of the most scenic jumps in the country.

Directions:

Located near Snohomish with easy access from Highway 2.

What to Expect:

First-timers love this location. The views include winding rivers, farmland, and distant mountain ranges. Freefall is fast and exhilarating, followed by a peaceful canopy ride.

Amenities:

• Tandem jumps & instruction

• Gear rentals

• Restrooms & staging areas

• On-site staff and safety briefings

Skydiving Gear to Know:

Even as a tandem jumper, understanding the gear matters. Many jumpers wear skydiving goggles, a protective neck gaiter, and skydiver gloves for comfort. Experienced jumpers rely on a digital altimeter watch to track altitude and often mount a GoPro HERO action camera using a helmet mount to capture the jump.

Skydive Chelan

Skydiving over Lake Chelan feels unreal. Blue water, desert hills, vineyards, and sunshine combine for one of the most visually stunning jumps in Washington.

Directions:

Located near Chelan with easy access from US-97.

What to Expect:

Bright skies, warm air, and sweeping views. The contrast between deep blue water and rugged terrain makes this a favorite for photographers.

Amenities:

• Tandem jumps

• Training programs

• Seasonal operations

• Nearby lodging and wineries

Gear Notes:

Clear visibility makes polarized sunglasses and a helmet-mounted action camera especially popular here. Many jumpers also keep a skydiving logbook to document jumps at iconic locations like this.

Skydive Kapowsin

Set between forested valleys and the Olympic Mountains, Skydive Kapowsin gives you a whole new view of western Washington. With expert instructors and a family-style crew, this is the perfect place to knock skydiving off your bucket list — and then do it again, because you won’t be able to resist.

Directions:

Located near Shelton with access from Highway 101.

What to Expect:

Fast freefall followed by a canopy ride that feels like floating through a postcard.

Amenities:

• Tandem and experienced jumper programs

• Gear rentals

• On-site facilities

• Friendly, professional staff

Trusted Gear:

Comfort matters at altitude. Jumpers often rely on windproof jackets, skydiving gloves, and hydration packs for long days at the drop zone.

Sky-Themed Gifts & Keepsakes

Not everyone jumps right away — and that’s okay. Sky adventures often start as dreams. Thoughtful keepsakes like a skydiving logbook, skydiving gift pen set, adventure-themed picture frame, or a “Proud Sky Diver” T-shirt are popular ways to celebrate milestones, first jumps, or future goals.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re gliding from a mountaintop or free-falling through the clouds, flying in Washington is one of those rare experiences that stays with you forever. It’s not just the rush — it’s the stillness up there, the peace, and the incredible view that reminds you how big and beautiful this state really is.

So grab your courage (and maybe a friend or two), strap in, and get outside and play — sky-high edition. The Evergreen State is waiting for you to spread your wings.