Experiencing Yosemite National Park from the ground is a bucket-list opportunity. Viewing some of the park’s iconic features while jumping out of an airplane is mystical.
Jumping out of an airplane with nothing but a big piece of nylon on your back to arrest the fall is surreal. And there’s only one company that allows you to skydive near Yosemite National Park. Before you go into a free fall, a Skydive Yosemite instructor tells you to lift your chin like you’re proud, let your legs dangle out of the airplane with the door open, and hold onto your chest straps. But they forget to warn you about the part where your stomach drops to the airplane floor, your lungs fall still, and the sheer exhilaration that bubbles up in the open air, because, for them, free-falling is a way of life.
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Preparing to Skydive in Mariposa County
From the time of your arrival on Skydive Yosemite’s premises, it takes up to an hour to sign waivers, learn about the risks you’re taking, and become acquainted with your fate. This is the longest part of the process, which is followed by a 20-minute sardine-can-like airplane ride that’s loud, windy and takes you to a height of 14,000 feet where you can see Half Dome splitting the sky in the distance. Eventually, the pilot turns back towards the town of Mariposa and yells that you have 40 seconds to the drop zone.
Then you jump, bracing for a minute-long free fall while hoping the parachute deploys. When it lodges free, there’s a moment of impact when your harness pulls you away from the ground. Then you dangle from the sky, watching the buildings grow large, while wondering what possessed you to do such a thing.
What are the Risks Associated with Skydiving?
In 2023 alone, about 3.65 million skydiving incidents were reported across the United States. That same year, 10 fatalities were recorded. Statistically speaking, skydiving is safer than driving, which results in about 38 deaths per million. Tandem skydiving – or jumping with an instructor, is even less lethal than standard skydiving, resulting in about 0.002 deaths per jump compared to 0.006.
Still, skydiving does not come without risks. About one in a thousand parachute openings don’t function as planned, although there’s always a secondary system in place for this reason. Landing is also potentially dangerous since it can lead to ankle or leg injuries.
Who Was the First Person to Successfully Skydive?
The sport of skydiving can be traced back to 1797 when André-Jacques Garnerin jumped out of a hot-air balloon with a hand-made parachute. Garnerin’s jump was successful, which encouraged him to continue refining his system and to drop from higher elevations through the years. While Garnerin was the first documented person to have successfully completed a skydiving jump, drawings of parachutes date back to the early 1100s in China.
How Much Does Skydiving Cost?
Throughout the United States, tandem skydiving ranges in cost from about $200 to $300. Skydive Yosemite charges $325 for a high-elevation jump that allows you to see parts of Yosemite National Park from the sky, $275 for the 12,000-foot Sierra jump, and $225 for a 10,000-foot jump over Mariposa. Jumpers can also add pictures and videos for an additional cost. Be sure to check their website for the most current pricing.
Tips for the Best Skydiving Experience
- Choose Your Outfit Carefully: The higher the altitude, the colder the temperatures are going to be. The freefall temperature can be about 30-degrees cooler than the ground temperature, which means that bringing a jacket might be prudent (but leave the hood at home). Leave loose items like sunglasses and jewelry in the car. Wear closed-toed shoes, and pick a comfortable outfit.
- Arrive Early: The last thing you want is to be rushed while traveling to the skydiving site. Showing up early can reduce the jitters and optimize the experience.
- Breathe: If you’re not afraid, something is amiss. Skydiving can be a great opportunity to force you to confront your fears. One good way to manage them is by breathing and staying present.
Getting There
Skydive Yosemite is located 6 minutes away from downtown Mariposa at 5020c Mcready Way, Mariposa, CA 95338. Make sure to book your trip before heading to the airport since gaining entry requires a code.
By Car: While heading north on CA 140, you’ll take a left onto 49. Take a right on the Mt Bullion Cutoff Road. Skydive Yosemite will be on the left hand side through a gate.
The town of Mariposa is about a 3 hour drive southeast of San Francisco, and about an hour south west of Yosemite Valley. Driving is the best way to get there although a bus runs from San Francisco to the town of Mariposa.
By Air: There are a number of different small airports throughout the central valley, but most travelers will either fly through San Francisco or Fresno. After flying into San Francisco, travelers will have a free 15-minute train ride to the car rental center. Most rental companies are located on the premises of Fresno Yosemite International Airport.
By Bus: The most stratford bus option travels from San Francisco Bus Station to Merced Bus Stop via Greyhound. There is also an Amtrak option. Keep in mind that traveling through Mariposa once you’ve arrived can be difficult since ride shares are inconsistent and often expensive.
Conclusion
Skydiving isn’t for everyone, but it can be an inspiring experience to those who love an adrenaline rush. On my trip, I learned that skydiving at lower elevations gives you a longer fall. So, the best value for your dollar can be found in places like Mariposa, as opposed to Denver or other high-elevation cities. There are some restrictions on people who can and cannot safely skydive including weight limits, cardiovascular health limits, and medical conditions. However, companies like Skydive Yosemite screen for these conditions before you even show up to jump.
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