I have tried to paraglide off Bob’s Peak several times but the weather didn’t cooperate. They need a perfect balance of wind on top of and down the mountain. Before we left for dinner the Greens and I signed up for the paragliding on the next morning. We were so excited and of course a little apprehensive.
Our group went up on the gondola and we all rode the luge before heading in for social hour before dinner. On the way I noticed the paragliding booth so went up to chat with them about the next days ride. They said why don’t you go now? What! There’s Dick and Gayle who are traveling with us on the Fantasy tour with us! I called them over and said we’re going NOW! OMG said Gayle but off we went, a 15 minute hike straight up to the very top of the mountain. They rolled out the three parachutes, hooked us in and then said 1-2-3 and we literally ran off the edge of the mountain until the chute pulled our feet off the ground. Then it was an amazing calm as we glided around and over the trees. Our guides glided us over by the window of the restaurant where we waved at our group and we could hear them cheer us on. I was never afraid or felt a pit in my stomach. Paragliding has got to be the closest thing man has to flying like a bird. When you launch off the top of the mountain you soar on silk wings. The pilot is able to do some maneuvering so you feel like you have control over where you are flying, just like a bird. When you dive you feel the wind in your hair and you’re an eagle. Floating along you’re a seagull. It’s one of the most awe-inspiring, quiet, peaceful experiences I’ve had It was awesome sailing along until all too soon we softly landed, on our feet, in a school yard.
Back on top at dinner there was much cheering and back slapping. What fun! What’s next?
