Picture this: you’re soaring through the sky, wind rushing past your face, the glistening waters of Lake Chelan shimmering below. You feel like a bird, weightless and free.
That’s the thrill of parasailing, and believe it or not, this exhilarating activity has a surprisingly fascinating history before it ever made it to our beautiful corner of Washington!
A Quick & Breezy History of Parasailing
Photo credit: parasail.org
Parasailing might seem like a relatively modern adrenaline rush, but its origins date back to the early 1960s.
The man behind the magic? A French engineer named Pierre-Marcel Lemoigne. In 1961, he designed a parachute that could be towed behind a vehicle. Originally, it was used for training parachutists without the need for an airplane. Just attach the parachute to a car, drive off, and let gravity do its thing.
But it wasn’t long before thrill-seekers realized this idea could be way more fun behind a boat. Enter Mark McCulloh, an American entrepreneur who, in the 1970s and ’80s, pioneered the commercial parasailing industry.
He invented the first self-contained parasail launch and recovery vessel, which was basically a boat designed specifically for the sport. Thanks to these innovations, parasailing transformed from a quirky experiment into a mainstream vacation must-do.
Since then, parasailing has taken off (literally!) all around the world, from tropical beaches to alpine lakes, including the stunning waters of Lake Chelan.
Why Lake Chelan is a Parasailing Paradise
Photo credit: Chelan Parasail
Lake Chelan is the ideal lake if you’re looking for a perfect blend of epic views, clear skies, and crystal-clear water.
Nestled among the Cascade Mountains, our 55-mile-long lake offers jaw-dropping vistas whether you’re sunbathing on the shore or flying high above it all.
Manson, the home of Mountain View Lodge, sits on the lake’s sunny north shore. From here, parasailers are treated to panoramic views of orchards, vineyards, rugged mountains, and the sparkling lake itself. It’s like being in a Pacific Northwest postcard… only better, because you’re floating hundreds of feet in the air!
And don’t worry, parasailing is surprisingly peaceful. After the initial excitement of takeoff, it becomes an almost meditative experience as you gently glide over the water.
Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or just want a unique way to enjoy Lake Chelan’s beauty, parasailing checks all the boxes.
How to Go Parasailing on Lake Chelan
Photo credit: Chelan Parasail
Ready to fly? Check out Chelan Parasail & Watersports to take to the skies!
Chelan Parasail & Watersports
Located in downtown Chelan, this long-time favorite offers single, tandem, or even triple flight, meaning you can fly with your friends or family. Their custom boats are designed for smooth takeoffs and landings right from the back deck. You’ll be 400 feet in the air before you know it!
They also offer photo packages so you can relive your airborne adventure and make all your friends jealous!
Visit the Chelan Parasail & Watersports website.
Make It A Full Day Of Fun!
Photo credit: Slidewaters
Ready to make a full day of it? We have the perfect end-of-summer itinerary to guarantee a memorable visit to the Lake Chelan Valley:
1. Make A Splash At Slidewaters
Located just across from Chelan Parasail, Slidewaters is the perfect complement to your morning sail over Lake Chelan.
Grab the whole family, your beach towels, and plenty of sunscreen, and enjoy the last moments of waterpark fun before Slidewaters closes for the season after Labor Day!
2. Hit Downtown Manson For A Delicious Dinner
With a diverse selection of Mexican food, pub fare, fine dining, and Indian cuisine, you have some great options to fuel up after your day in the sun!
Here are just a few of our favorite family-friendly spots to grab dinner, all walkable from your room at Mountain View Lodge:
- Twisted Cork & Taphouse (Fine Indian Cuisine)
- Winemaker’s Grill + Wine Bar at Wapato Point Cellars
- Laguna Grill
- Lake Chelan Brewery
- Fonda Oaxaqueña
3. Check Out La Garza Cellar’s Free Movie Night
Enjoy a FREE outdoor movie night at La Garza Cellars, every Thursday through the end of August. Their patio is a perfect spot to kick your feet up after a day of adventuring around the Chelan Valley (plus, free popcorn!)
See their calendar for this month’s movie lineup.
Another Great Reason to Visit Manson
Parasailing is just one of the many ways to soak up the beauty and energy of the Lake Chelan Valley. From sipping local wines in Manson’s boutique wineries to hiking mountain trails or strolling through waterfront parks, this area is all about living your best life outdoors.
At Mountain View Lodge, we’re lucky to have a front-row seat to all the fun. And when you’re done flying through the sky? Come back, kick off your sandals, and relax under the stars in our courtyard hot tub.
Book your stay at Mountain View Lodge & Resort today, the perfect home base for your parasailing adventures!
Book online or give us a call today. We look forward to hosting you!