"Hang Gliding and Paragliding off a mountain" Ellenville Things to Do Tip by airkarat

We have been learning to hang glide in Ontario where the options are to be towed up by an ultralight or by winch (see my Orangeville, Ontario, Canada tip). We were curious to see foot launching off of a mountain.

In Ellenville, one can take lessons in hang gliding (not off the mountain to begin!) or one can simply observe the flights on low / light-wind days. We had spoken to an instructor at the school and he had given us directions to the launch site.

Upon arriving at the gate there was a sign to obtain waivers before entering. So observers should contact the flight school or visit the landing zone prior to driving up the mountain to the launch site.

If you want to try hang gliding without lessons, ask the instructors about tandem flights where passengers enjoy the ride alongside a licensed tandem pilot.

Directions to the launch site at the top of the mountain (1380 feet above sea level and @1000 above ground level): FIRST attend the landing zone to receive permission or call the school (contacts below). Then, return into Ellenville and follow 52 East as it passes 3 lookouts as you climb the mountain. After the largest lookout, go a bit further keeping an eye out for a parking loop on your left side with a gate and a big USHGA sign. It is on the foresty side of the mountain and you may pass it. If you start into a general descent, you've gone too far. A rapid descent? Too not-on-the-road! The road is winding and quite busy, so use caution. Park at the gate and walk in. The path to walk on is rocky and climbs higher - maybe takes 10 minutes to walk in.

Address: North-West face of the mountain in Ellenville
Directions: To the landing zone for permission to observe from the top: From Ellenville town center, follow 209 south out of town past Nevele Grande Country Club. Turn left on Hang Glider Rd. to the end.
Phone: 845-225-9220
Website: http://www.flyhighhg.com/