Base jumpers
Base or B.A.S.E. jumping is a parachute or wingsuit flying activity that usually involves jumping from a cliff or fixed structure. B.A.S.E. stands for building, antenna, span, and Earth, the possible bases from which one can jump. Base jumping is way more dangerous than skydiving. It’s almost certainly the most dangerous extreme sport, and it is illegal in many parts of the world.
Base jumping lasts less than when jumping from an airplane and the jumpers can’t develop maximum speed. The free fall in base jumping takes only a few seconds, therefore it’s necessary to open the parachute almost immediately after the jump. The short time is what makes this extreme activity so dangerous and sometimes even fatal.
The father of modern base jumping is the American free fall cinematographer, Carl Boenish. He was the one who filmed the first base jumps from El Capitan in Yosemite National Park in 1978. He was promoting safety in base jumping through his BASE Magazine. Unfortunately, in 1984, his favorite sport killed him after jumping “Stabben” pinnacle in a Trolltinden range in Norway.
For all flying enthusiasts out there, base jumping is an unforgettable experience that gets closest to what we call flying. The uncertainty of what’s going to happen next is simply the best adrenaline rush you can get. If you are a person who fancies this sport, we’ve got the best base jumping spots in Norway that will blow your mind with their spectacular views. All you base jumpers out there will enjoy this list.
Kjerag is a (3,640 ft) tall mountain that sits on the southern shore of the Lysefjorden. Its northern side is a high cliff that sinks directly into the fjord. The spectacular view attracts many visitors, some just to take stunning photographs and others to jump from the cliff.
Kjeragfossen is an additional thrill for the jumpers, being one of the tallest in the world. This popular base jumping site has seen more than 50,000 jumps since 1994.
Preikestolen is another great jumping attraction in Norway. Due to the popularity of this sport in the country, the authorities are improving the conditions on the trails to the cliff. To get to the top you need to hike for about 2.5 miles.
Each year there are 200,000 visitors from all around the world visiting this magnificent fjord and not all of them are jumpers. But, for the ones who are, this place is a dream come true.
Kjeragbolten is a boulder stuck between two cliffs. As if the magical scenery wasn’t exciting enough, here you get to jump from a boulder seemingly hanging in the air. It’s accessible without any equipment, so it gets frequent visits from many thrill loving tourists. And of course, base jumpers love it!
Trolltunga is accessible for hikers from approximately mid-June to mid-September. It’s a piece of rock that hangs horizontally above Ringedalsvatnet Lake. Trolltunga means troll tongue which is what this rock looks like. Base jumpers from all over come here to admire the view and to enjoy their extreme sport.
Base jumping is an amazing outdoor flying activity recommended only for people who have prior training and experience in skydiving sports.
If you are brave enough, maybe you can consider having a go. If flying is not your type of adventure, it’s possible to visit these magnificent places and enjoy the view without having to jump off the cliff. Good luck!
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