Girdwood Alaska

Experience the thrill of paragliding as you take off from the side of a mountain and soar high over Girdwood. All you have to do is relax and enjoy the gorgeous view! Alaska Paragliding, run by 16-year paragliding veteran Pete Gautreau, will take you on this singularly spectacular adventure.

It all begins by taking the scenic aerial tram at Alyeska Resort, where you'll watch an instructional video. Then your instructor will get you geared up. No experience is necessary-just follow your guide's expert advice. And even those afraid of heights will most likely be fine-the equipment makes it like sitting in a comfortable swing set, firmly secured and supported.

Before you know it, you and your guide will be running off the side of the mountain and lifting off into the Alaskan air! Your guide steers and you can even take the controls as you fly around on the currents like an eagle. Flights usually last 12-15 minutes or longer, depending on those currents. You'll gaze around at mountains and water, taking in the birds-eye view. Then you'll circle lower and lower, landing on the soft valley floor.

For spectators, the best view of the paragliding is from the top of the tram (spectator tram tickets not included). You can also capture the moment via high-quality in-flight photography or videography, available for an additional cost.