Bucket list item: Soaring High in a Glider Plane

To travel is to make new memories. Whether it’s a first time visiting a place or the tenth time, it’s in those memories that drive us.

When I travel, I often times, try to look for the unexpected. Of course, there’s always the must visit places, but it’s in those moments of the unexpected, of the new, that always leave a lasting impression.

So, while in Carson Valley, when I was introduced to Soaring NV, although, I wasn’t sure what to expect, I said, “okay, lets do it.”

What is Soaring NV?

Soaring, in their own words, Soaring is the art and science of using the natural movement of the atmosphere to stay aloft, climb, and travel long distances in a motor-less aircraft.

And then of course the Glider plane: A glider, or sailplane, is a type of aircraft that does not have an engine. Usually an airplane tows the glider aloft, although the glider may also be launched like a kite, using a winch or even an automobile to pull it into the air. At the desired altitude, the glider pilot releases the towline, and begins to glide.

A girl, who has a bit of a fear of heights, was about to embark in a small glider plane, pictured above, to overlook beautiful Lake Tahoe and the Carson Valley region. To say I was a bit nervous, was an understatement.

But, before I entered any such vessel, I did have to sign my life away, or, I mean, my consent.

I waited about 15 minutes before Russell, my pilot for the day, came to greet me. He explained a bit of the process. I told him I had a bit of a fear of heights, but really wanted to take photos. And soon, we hopped in a golf cart towards our Glider Plane.

Once we were in Glider territory, they put a very heavy parachute around my back then I entered the Glider as they belted me in. You can see the nerves on my face, can’t you?

And then we lined up, an airplane helps guide the Glider up to its proper elevation, then when it gets a certain height lets the Glider go and then the Glider will glide through the air.

At take off:

Releasing the Towline:

Once the towline was released, we glided in the air taking in the beautiful sights of Lake Tahoe below us, and yes, this was my first time seeing the entire lake in all its glory.

After a few minutes, I told Russel that I wanted to try a loop. Yes, they do acrobatics in the glider planes. He walked me through the process, and then it happened. I felt up to 3G’s worth when the plane completely looped over. It was the coolest and oddest feeling all at the same time, and after that loop I needed time to settle down a bit.

We then made our way back to landing. Russel showed me a bit on how the Glider plane was able to use the air around it to rise its elevation, and what he utilized for landing.

Landing was really smooth, and once we were on the ground again, it felt like we were in a rolling bobsled.

In the end, this was one of the best experiences of my life, and a GREAT way to experience Lake Tahoe. A big thanks to Russel, my pilot, for answering all my questions and calming my nerves in the sky.

Soaring NV:
775-782-9595
1138 Airport Road
Minden, Nevada 89423

Soaring NV provides Glider Rides, and also offers lessons to those looking to learn how to fly a Glider Plane. More information can be found here.

Jamie is a born and raised Minnesota Girl who has landed herself in California.  She writes over at http://mngirlinla.com where she explores all things food, travel and wine.

Disclosure: I was invited out for a weekend to experience Carson Valley and Soaring NV. All opinions and stories are my own.