How many drop zones operate in Washington?

Skydiving Hubs lists 2 drop zones and tandem operators in Washington, covering tandem, AFF, fun-jump, and (where available) wingsuit and canopy progression.

Skydiving · Washington

Skydiving in Washington

Jump 2 drop zones across Washington. Maps, hours, contact info, photos, and verified operator profiles, all in one place.

North Cascades, the Olympics, and 3,000 miles of saltwater coastline.

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About Washington

Washington splits down the middle, and so does its skydiving. West of the Cascades the ground is green and cut with water, the islands and inlets of Puget Sound stitched together by channels; east of the crest it flattens into dry farmland and open sky. From altitude the Cascade Range holds the line between the two, its snow-capped peaks visible on a clear day whether you exit over the coast or the plains. The result is a state where two very different jumps live under the same license plate.

Tandem operations here are built for the first-timer. Drop zones tend to sit where the view pays off, over patchwork fields that open wide beneath the canopy, or within sight of rivers and mountains. You're clipped to an experienced instructor, the training is minimal, and the freefall and canopy ride are yours to simply take in. It's about as low-friction as an introduction to the sport gets.

Students chasing a license will find real Accelerated Freefall programs at several Washington drop zones. The progression is structured: ground school first, then a series of jumps under an instructor's direct eye, each one handing you more of the flying. The facilities run to industry safety standards, which gives a new jumper a stable footing to build on toward solo capability.

Licensed fun-jumpers have their pick of drop zones, each with its own crew and amenities. The state's geographic split becomes a menu: coastal water on one side, mountain backdrops in the middle, and the big empty skies of the east. Aircraft and facilities vary from one place to the next, but the throughline (shared love of flight, and the camaraderie on the landing area), holds across all of them.

Best time to go

When to jump in Washington

Full seasonality

Peak season Jun–Aug

PeakGoodFairOff

June through October.

June–September: the heart of the season, most events and loads
Spring and fall jump well on clear, calm days
Winter: many DZs limited, so call ahead

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Quick facts

Drop zones listed: 2
Best season: June through October

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2 drop zones

across Washington

Skydive Kapowsin

Skydive Kapowsin, Shelton, WA

Western Washington drop zone running tandems, AFF, and licensed loads year-round with Mount Rainier views on clear days. Caravan + Twin Otter aircraft.

Tandem JumpAFF Training

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Skydive Snohomish

Skydive Snohomish is a Puget Sound drop zone at Harvey Field in Snohomish, Washington, with scenic jumps over the Cascades and tandem, AFF, and sport-jumping…

Tandem JumpAFF Training

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Jumping Season and Weather Windows

The primary skydiving season in Washington runs from late spring through early fall, typically May to October, when weather conditions are most favorable. Some drop zones operate year-round on a limited basis, contingent on clear skies and minimal wind. Always check the forecast and drop zone operating schedule before planning your jump.

Tandem, AFF, and Licensed Jumper Options

First-time jumpers typically opt for a tandem skydive, securely attached to an instructor. For those seeking to become licensed, the Accelerated Freefall (AFF) program provides comprehensive training. Licensed skydivers can participate in 'fun jumps,' provided they meet the drop zone's requirements and hold a valid USPA license.

Age and Weight Requirements

All skydivers, regardless of jump type, must be at least 18 years old. Weight restrictions vary by drop zone and equipment, commonly ranging from 220 to 250 pounds, often with additional fees for heavier individuals. It is essential to confirm specific limits with your chosen drop zone prior to booking.

What a First Jump Involves

A first tandem skydive typically begins with a brief training session covering safety, aircraft procedures, and body position. After being harnessed to an instructor, the ascent to altitude occurs, followed by freefall and a canopy ride. The entire experience, from arrival to landing, usually takes several hours.

AFF Licensing Progression

The Accelerated Freefall (AFF) program involves a series of coached jumps designed to teach students how to skydive independently. Upon successful completion of the AFF levels, along with accumulating required jumps and demonstrating specific skills, students can earn their USPA A-license, allowing them to jump without instructor supervision.

Confirm current requirements with the state agency before your trip. Rules and fees change every season.

USPA Membership for Students and Licensed Jumpers
Individuals pursuing an Accelerated Freefall (AFF) progression or engaging in licensed fun jumping are typically required to obtain membership with the United States Parachute Association (USPA). This membership ensures adherence to established safety standards and provides access to USPA-rated instructors and programs.
Minimum Age Requirement
For all forms of skydiving in Washington, including tandem jumps, Accelerated Freefall (AFF) training, and licensed fun jumps, participants must be at least 18 years of age. Parental consent does not override this age restriction, an industry-standard USPA Basic Safety Requirement (FAA Part 105 itself sets no minimum age).
Weight and Health Restrictions
Drop zones enforce specific weight limits for safety reasons, which vary depending on equipment and aircraft capabilities, typically ranging from 220 to 250 pounds. All jumpers are also required to self-certify that they are in good physical health and free from conditions that could impair their safety during a skydive.
Adherence to FAA Basic Safety Requirements
All skydiving operations and participants in Washington must comply with the FAA's sport-parachuting rules in FAR Part 105 and, at USPA-affiliated drop zones, the USPA Basic Safety Requirements (BSRs). These regulations govern equipment, operations, and conduct to ensure the safety of all aerial activities.

01
Research Washington Drop Zones
Find drop zones that fit your location and the experience you're after. Weigh the drive, the views on offer, and which jump types (tandem, AFF), each one runs.
02
Choose Your Skydiving Experience
Decide between a one-time tandem for the thrill or committing to an Accelerated Freefall program toward a license. That call shapes everything that follows.
03
Book Your Reservation
Contact your chosen drop zone to lock in a slot. Have your details ready, confirm age and weight, and read their cancellation and rescheduling policies before you commit.
04
Prepare for Your Jump
Go over any pre-jump instructions the drop zone sends. Wear comfortable athletic clothing and closed-toe shoes, show up rested and hydrated, and skip alcohol and drugs beforehand.
05
Arrive Early for Training and Briefing
Get there at least an hour before your jump time. That buffer covers check-in, paperwork, ground school, and harness fitting before you board the plane.

01What is the best time of year to skydive in Washington?

Late spring through early fall, roughly May to October, is the sweet spot. The weather is steadier, the skies clearer, and temperatures milder, which adds up to the most consistent run of jumpable days.

02What are the age and weight limits for skydiving in Washington?

Every jumper must be at least 18. Weight limits depend on the drop zone and its equipment but commonly sit between 220 and 250 pounds. Confirm the exact number, and any surcharge for heavier jumpers, with your drop zone before booking.

03Do I need any prior experience to skydive in Washington?

Not for a tandem. You're harnessed to an experienced instructor who runs the entire jump. If you're going for a license, the Accelerated Freefall program starts with full ground training built for beginners.

04What is the Accelerated Freefall (AFF) program and how do I get licensed?

AFF is a structured series of coached jumps that teach you to fly on your own. Clear the levels, log the required jumps, and demonstrate the necessary skills, and you can apply for a USPA A-license.

05Are there different types of skydiving available in Washington?

Yes. Drop zones run tandem jumps for first-timers, AFF programs for students working toward a license, and fun jumping for licensed skydivers going up solo or in groups.

06What should I wear for my skydive?

Comfortable athletic clothing that moves with you and suits the day's weather. Closed-toe, lace-up athletic shoes are essential. Leave the sandals, hooked boots, and anything that could snag at home.

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