There is perhaps no better way to see the North Coast than from the air — and with the help of colorful paragliding “wings,” you can experience both spectacular views and the exhilarating freedom of propelling yourself to flight.

Paragliding, often described as the simplest form of human flight, is similar to skydiving with parachutes, but with the aim of staying in the air for extended flights. Paragliders are inflatable wings that can be packed down to fit in a backpack. When unpacked, they inflate to carry the rider across dunes or down steep hills.

The sport has long been popular in Europe, but has slowly grown a dedicated fan base in the United States — and the largest paragliding school in Oregon is right here on the North Coast.

Based on Sunset Beach in Warrenton, Discover Paragliding offers opportunities to try the sport for the first time or practice more advanced skills.

Brad Hill launched Discover Paragliding in Yoncalla in 1997, and was soon joined by his wife, Maren Ludwig — another paragliding instructor — who he met on the Oregon Coast. They soon married and became Discover Paragliding’s instructional team.

In 2002, the business relocated to Sunset Beach, where it’s stayed since. Now, those eager to carry out their dreams of flight can do so with sweeping views of dunes, headlands and the Pacific Ocean.

Hill and Ludwig are both master rated pilots, the highest certification issued by the U.S. Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association.

At Sunset Beach, there are a range of options for all types of fliers, including a solo two-day introductory course and a four-day or five-day beginner training program, as well as advanced special skills courses for more experienced pilots. Discover Paragliding also offers tandem instructional flights for those who prefer company in the air.