The Most Spectacular BASE Jumping Locations
BASE jumping, an extreme sport that involves parachuting or wingsuit flying from a fixed structure or cliff, offers thrill-seekers the unique opportunity to experience heart-stopping excitement and breathtaking views. There are hundreds of locations worldwide where BASE jumpers can indulge in this adrenaline-pumping activity. However, there are few places that stand out due to their height, beauty, and the sheer thrill they offer.
Norway’s Kjerag Mountain is one such location. Towering at 1,110 meters above Lysefjorden fjord’s crystalline waters, it presents a stunning spectacle for both jumpers and spectators alike. The mountain’s vertical drop makes it ideal for wingsuit flying – another variant of BASE jumping – offering daredevils ample time to maneuver before deploying their parachute.
Angel Falls in Venezuela is another must-visit spot for any serious BASE jumper. As the world’s highest uninterrupted waterfall with a height of 979 meters (3,212 feet), it provides an unparalleled challenge and spectacle. Jumping off Angel Falls gives participants a chance to admire the lush Venezuelan rainforest as they descend rapidly towards its floor.
Half Dome in Yosemite National Park also ranks high among favorite destinations for this extreme sport despite its controversial legal status within park boundaries. This granite dome stands about 4,737 feet above Yosemite Valley and allows jumpers to enjoy panoramic views of Vernal and Nevada Falls during their descent.
Moving away from natural formations, urban environments also provide some spectacular spots for BASE jumping enthusiasts. The Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur – once the tallest buildings globally – allow daredevils to leap from over 450 meters (1,480 feet) into Malaysia’s bustling capital city below.
In Shanghai too lies an architectural marvel perfect for BASE jumping: Shanghai Tower standing at over 632m tall; it’s China’s tallest building providing not just an incredible drop but also a view of Shanghai like no other.
Europe is not left out of the picture with Switzerland’s Eiger North Face, a classic BASE jumping spot. The 1,800-meter vertical limestone face provides an exhilarating jump experience coupled with spectacular views of the Swiss Alps.
Lastly, New River Gorge Bridge in West Virginia hosts ‘Bridge Day,’ the largest BASE jumping event globally, where hundreds of jumpers leap from the bridge into the river below every third Saturday in October. It’s a celebration like no other and a must-attend for any serious BASE jumper.
These locations offer more than just a place to jump; they provide unique experiences that combine natural beauty or architectural marvels with extreme sport thrill. However, it’s essential to remember that BASE jumping is an extremely dangerous sport and should only be attempted by trained professionals who understand and are prepared for its risks.