Updrafts Over Lookout Mountain: Tandem Hang Gliding That Redefines Your View
See The World From A New Perspective! | No Experience Necessary!
Morning comes soft to Lookout Mountain. Mist floats like loose ribbon over the valley as the towplane coughs awake and the glider’s aluminum bones catch the first light. You’re clipped into the harness, belly-down, side by side with a certified instructor, the field dew still cool against your palms. A gentle roll, a tug on the line, and the earth begins to unspool—pastures shrinking, hardwoods braiding into a dark green rug, the horizon stepping out in layers. The towplane pulls you skyward and the mountain exhales; a young thermal shoulders you upward and the ridgeline nods you along its sandstone spine.
Trail Wisdom
Book early for smooth air
Morning flights are typically calmer and offer gentler conditions for first-timers.
Dress for a convertible ride
It’s cooler aloft; bring a light wind layer even on warm days and wear close-toed shoes for moving around the airfield.
Speak up about your style
Tell your instructor if you prefer mellow gliding or aerobatic-style turns—your ride can be tailored in real time.
Secure eyewear and cameras
Use a strap for sunglasses or action cams; wind at speed will try to borrow anything loose.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Cloudland Canyon’s West Rim Loop overlooks for post-flight golden hour views
- •Lula Lake Land Trust (open select days with reservation) for waterfalls and quiet trails
Wildlife
Red-tailed hawk, Turkey vulture
Conservation Note
Stay on designated access paths at the airfield, pack out trash, and respect posted rules—glider operations and raptor habitat both benefit from low-impact behavior.
Lookout Mountain was the site of the 1863 'Battle Above the Clouds' during the Chattanooga Campaign, and the mountain’s plateau has long attracted free-flight pioneers since the 1970s.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Clear views, Mild temperatures
Challenges: Fast-changing weather, Occasional gusty afternoons
Spring brings crisp air and wildflower-framed ridges with variable winds. Mornings are often best for first flights.
summer
Best for: Smooth morning air, Long daylight
Challenges: Heat and humidity, Stronger mid-day thermals
Plan early flights for calmer air and cooler temps. Hydrate well and expect livelier conditions by afternoon.
fall
Best for: Peak foliage, Stable conditions
Challenges: Popular weekends, Cooler breezes at altitude
October and early November deliver color-drenched vistas and generally reliable air—bring a layer for the ride.
winter
Best for: Ultra-clear visibility, Quieter crowds
Challenges: Cold windchill, More frequent weather holds
Cold air equals sharp views; dress warmly and be flexible with scheduling around fronts and rain.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Light windproof layerEssential
It’s a few degrees cooler aloft and the relative wind adds chill during flight.
Sunglasses with retention strapEssential
Protects eyes from glare and stays put in the slipstream.
Closed-toe shoesEssential
Useful for walking around the airfield and for stable footing during takeoff and landing.
Sunscreen and water bottleEssential
Sun and heat can sneak up on bright landing fields—hydrate and protect your skin.
Common Questions
Do I need any experience to fly tandem?
No. You’ll be securely harnessed to a certified instructor and towed to altitude by an ultralight; they handle launch, flight, and landing.
What are the age and weight requirements?
Guests must be at least 14 years old and under 250 lbs for tandem flights.
How long is the flight?
Plan for 8–20 minutes in the air depending on weather and altitude (1,500' or 3,000'), plus time for check-in and briefing.
What if the weather looks questionable?
Safety comes first. If conditions aren’t suitable, your flight will be rescheduled; tickets are valid for two years and are transferable.
Can I bring a camera or GoPro?
Yes, but use a secure mount or wrist/helmet strap. Loose items can be lost in the wind; ask your instructor for best practices.
Is this suitable for guests with limited mobility?
Yes. The aerotow and wheeled dolly takeoff make tandem flights accessible, and the park can accommodate paraplegic and other special needs passengers.
What to Pack
Sunglasses with strap (windproof eye comfort), light windbreaker (cooler at altitude), sunscreen and water (open field sun exposure), closed-toe shoes (airfield footing and landing comfort).
Did You Know
The 'Battle Above the Clouds' took place on Lookout Mountain in November 1863, part of the Chattanooga Campaign of the American Civil War.
Quick Travel Tips
Aim for morning flights for calmer air; arrive 30 minutes early for check-in and briefing; be flexible—weather calls are common for safety; pair your flight with a Cloudland Canyon hike for a full day on the mountain.
Local Flavor
Post-flight, roll down to Chattanooga’s St. Elmo neighborhood: 1885 Grill serves Southern coastal fare and solid burgers, Clumpies scoops small-batch ice cream, and Chattanooga Brewing Company pours local lagers and IPAs. If you’d rather keep the ridge in view, picnic at Cloudland Canyon’s overlooks and watch the light change on the valley.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Chattanooga Metropolitan (CHA), ~35–45 minutes by car. Launch/landing: Lookout Mountain Flight Park airfield near Rising Fawn, GA. Drive time: ~30 minutes from downtown Chattanooga. Cell service: Generally good on the ridge; spotty in hollows. Permits: None for tandem flights—arrive with your booking confirmation and ID.
Sustainability Note
You’re flying above sensitive ridge and farmland ecosystems—pack out all trash, keep clear of resting gliders on the field, and avoid disturbing raptors that share these thermals.