Lookout Mountain Flight Park – Site Guide

Site Information

North America

Lookout Mountain Flight Park is the largest and most popular hang gliding and paragliding school and resort in the United States. The site has a launch area at the top of a 1,340-foot mountain, accessible by a paved road. The launch is suitable for all levels of pilots, as it has a wide grassy field and gentle slopes. The site is managed by the Lookout Mountain Flight Park, which offers comprehensive training packages, equipment rentals, and tandem flights. The site also features a 110-acre mountain resort with camping and lodging facilities, a private pool, a clubhouse, and a pro shop.

Location and Directions

The site is located in the Rising Fawn area, about 25 miles south of Chattanooga. To get to Lookout Mountain Flight Park, take I-59 from Chattanooga or Birmingham and exit at Trenton. Follow the signs for GA 136 and drive for about 10 miles. Turn left onto GA 189 and drive for another 10 miles until you reach the park entrance. The GPS coordinates of the launch are 34.8150° N, 85.5220° W.

Flying Conditions and Restrictions

The launch faces south and works best with winds from SE to SW at less than 15 km/h. The landing zone is the same as the take off field, but it can also be done in other fields nearby. Pilots need to have a radio and a helmet, and follow the park rules and regulations. The site is also used by hang gliders and paragliders with electric self-launch systems, so pilots need to be aware of the air traffic.

Best Times to Fly and Visit

The site is open year-round, but the best flying conditions are in spring and summer, when the weather is clear and the thermals are strong. The site can also be flown in autumn and winter, but the road may be closed due to snow or ice. The site is popular among local and visiting pilots, so it can get crowded on weekends and holidays.