Looking for unforgettable things to do in Nags Head or ready to cross hang gliding in the Outer Banks off your bucket list? There’s no better place to take flight than Jockey’s Ridge State Park, home to the tallest natural sand dunes on the East Coast and some of the most spectacular views in North Carolina.
For nearly 50 years, Kitty Hawk Kites has partnered with the North Carolina State Park Service to teach people of all ages how to fly at this one-of-a-kind location. The combination of soft sand, steady winds, and moderate dune height makes Jockey’s Ridge one of the safest and most beginner-friendly hang gliding sites in the world. Whether it’s your first time flying or a new adventure to share with family and friends, this is where unforgettable memories take flight.
What to Expect During Your Lesson
Check-In
Arrive at the Kitty Hawk Kites Hang Gliding School about 30 minutes before your scheduled lesson to check in, meet your instructors, and get fitted for your harness. Our friendly team will make sure you’re comfortable, confident, and ready to go!
Ground School (Required)
Every lesson begins with a short but essential Ground School, where you’ll learn the basics before you ever leave the ground.
Here’s what you’ll cover:
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A quick history of hang gliding and flight orientation
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Safety procedures and an overview of Jockey’s Ridge State Park
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How to handle your glider and control your flight
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Launching, flying, and landing techniques
Walk to the Dunes
After Ground School, take a scenic 10–15 minute stroll through the sand to reach the dunes, your personal runway for the day! Your instructor will carry the glider and pick the perfect dune based on current wind conditions. You’ll have time to take in the view, snap a few photos, and get ready for the thrill ahead.
Take Flight!
At the top of the dune, the magic begins. Your instructor will harness you in, perform final safety checks, and give you a few words of encouragement. Then, with the wind at your back, you’ll take a running start…and you’re flying!
During your lesson, you can expect:
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5 solo flights under the guidance of your instructor
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Smooth glides covering 30 to 100+ yards, reaching heights of 5 to 15 feet
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Landings that are soft, safe, and totally exhilarating on your feet if possible, or gently on the glider’s wheels if needed
Each flight builds your confidence and skill, and before you know it, you’ll be flying like a natural.
Wrap-Up
After your final flight, you’ll head back to the Hang Gliding School to celebrate your new achievement. Each flyer receives:
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A personal flight logbook to record your progress
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A commemorative sticker to remember your flight
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Access to your GoPro Film & Photo Package (if purchased)
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Time to browse our gift shop for hang gliding souvenirs or Outer Banks apparel
It’s the perfect way to end a day you’ll never forget.
What Our Flyers Say
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“Was a great time. Brad, Kareem, Drake and the other instructor were perfect at guiding all of us. They played awesome 70s/80s music for us old souls. We laughed and now 4 of us are going further in our gliding education. Wish we had time to do another before we left. Don’t hesitate—book your flight and have a great time!” – Tee
“Instructors were patient, encouraging, and made it so much fun.” – Barbara
“Never too old to try! At 65, I had a blast! I’d do it again!” – Elaine
“I’ve never hang glided before and it was incredible. Berny and Legs were fantastic instructors. I’ll definitely be back!” – Ernest
“The four of us enjoyed our flights tremendously. I especially want to recognize Legs for his patience and compassion working with a family and their autistic son. It took many baby steps, but he got airborne! Truly heartwarming to watch.” – Heidi
“Amazing experience learning the basics of hang gliding. The entire staff was so good at explaining everything. We had a blast and will be back soon!” – Haus
See more reviews or share your story on our Kitty Hawk Kites Hang Gliding School Google Page.
Ready to Fly?
Experience the joy of flight at the Kitty Hawk Kites Hang Gliding School, the largest and oldest hang-gliding school in the world. Whether you’re a first-timer, a thrill-seeker, or just looking to do something extraordinary in Nags Head, this is your chance to run, leap, and soar over the sand dunes of Jockey’s Ridge.
