Blue Ridge Skydiving Adventures and Training Center

I was driving from Florida to NY wanting to stop at Sebastian before leaving but the weather was not cooperating. I found Blue Ridge Skydiving Adventures in Virginia on my way north and stopped to make 3 jumps. The DZ was only running a single 4 passenger Cessna as it was cold and November. I had gotten 2 jumps in and needed 1 more to hit my 50th jump, but all the other jumpers had taken off. I was about to unpack my rental when the pilot said he'd take me on a private H&P to get my 50th in!!! It was awesome to have a pilot/instructor I had just met that was as enthusiastic as me to help me get my 50th! Overall great experience, great people and a fun change of pace from the congestion I'm used to at larger dropzones!

BRSA was truly a fantastic place to learn to become an "A" licensed skydiver. My involvement with the drop zone started with a phone call to Charlie Gittins who answered on the first attempt and set up a date for me to come to the drop zone. I had taken the AFF class at another drop zone and had performed my first jumps elsewhere but Charlie was very accommodating and helpful with the transition. When I arrived I was greeted the moment I walked in the door with a "Hello, you must be Evan, nice to have you." I received a tour of the drop zone and the learning began immediately. The staff at the drop zone take safety seriously. Whether it was emergency scenario reviews or equipment checks, the degree of diligence gave me a lot of confidence to jump. Manifest was run quickly, cleanly, and professionally. In addition to that the coaches and instructors are all amazing. They all have years of experience in the sport and they all take the learning process very seriously but always smiling and enjoying the moment. They took the time to review any questions I had and more than anything they all were relaxed and professional. There was no pressure or ego infused into any experience with anyone there. Everyone just wants you to be safe and have a great time. I have performed a total of 30 jumps now and cannot wait to jump more. After every jump when everyone has landed safely its high fives and smiles. Even if a 4 way gets broken in flight, there is not anger present but a spirit of "We'll get it next time" and smiles anyway. One thing that has become clear is everyone is learning, even those with hundreds of jumps. The constant humility and love for the sport makes this a great place to jump and a great place to obtain your "A" license. I have my paperwork in the mail and am expecting the card any day now.

I almost forgot. The views are breathtaking. Looking out to the tops of the mountains makes you stop and realize how lucky you are to take part in the sport. Not too many people will ever see something so majestic in their lifetimes while sitting under canopy at 3000 feet. Even if you have your license, come out just to experience the views and great people.

Loved my time spent there on a Sunday in July of 2016. First time jumping there and I received a warm welcome immediately upon entering and the DZO & S&TA (Charlie) personally showed me around the DZ, went through overhead photos to get me oriented, showed me the optimal exit point, possible outs in the case of a long spot, and went over the landing pattern.

There was only a handful of fun jumpers around, but it was a questionable weather forecast on a Sunday- so I'm sure it's better typically.

The people that were there were fantastic! Manifest was pleasant and playful. The fun jumpers were super friendly, invited me on several jumps, invited me out to lunch, and to hangout when the predicted storm came in.

The scenery is pretty spectacular, especially when there are some big puffy clouds to play around in.

Overall, a very safety conscious and friendly DZ that I would definitely stop in at again while in the Area.

I first came to Blue Ridge Skydiving Adventures on a recommendation, and everyone there lived up to what they said! The instructors are top notch, very knowledgeable and will help you succeed in every way! Everyone at this DZ is very welcoming and friendly, they will make you feel like family right from your first visit!

I just finished my A license AFF training this weekend, these guys had no problem braving the cold temperatures to make it happen! I felt like having the 4 or 5 different instructors during my training made me a better skydiver as each had their own way of teaching while hitting all the necessary bullets, I never felt like they contradicted each other.

Safety at this DZ is paramount, and its as simple as if conditions are not safe, the load will not go up. The landing area is more then big enough and it makes it easy to hone those canopy skills.

If you are looking at making that first jump as a tandem or want to start learning how to go out of the door on your own, look no further the Blue Ridge Skydiving adventures. I would HIGHLY recommend them! You will not regret it!

The first time I stepped on to this dz I was 16 and although I wasn't able to jump I still felt very welcome! I waited a couple years and came back and started my aff progression and everything about it was awesome! You will meet some of the greatest people at this dz! Charlie, Melissa, Bob, all of the instructors, riggers, and pilots put a ton of work into this dz and it really stands out. Also Blue ridge skydiving has some of the most experienced instructors some have over 9000 skydives. I really couldn't have chosen a better a place to call my home dz!

Come out to Blue Ridge and you'll find me teaching tandems, AFF, and shooting video.

I've worked at DZs all over the world. Blue Ridge is among a rare breed of dropzone that is not focused on money. The focus is on skydiving.

The place is so friendly, that before I even moved to the DC area, I was invited to come out and jump, check the place out, and see if I wanted to join the staff. It's the same thing when a student walks through the door. Everyone is greeted warmly. First timers can get lost in a 20 minute conversation before they even get to registration. Experienced jumpers will quickly find new friends to jump with.

I really like that they schedule and jump with AFF students first thing in the morning. Most of the time, this means that AFF students can get a jump in before the tandems start arriving. Victor only does AFF and Coaching, so there is always an instructor to talk to, even if other instructors are busy with tandem students.

The scenery is some of the most beautiful I've ever seen. As soon as you take off, you can see the Shenandoah mountain range, the Massanutten, and another range in West Virginia.

The staff is (ahem) top notch. The DZO is also an AFFI, as well as an instructor pilot and tandem instructor. The manager is an AFFI, a tandem I/E, a master rigger and a pilot. The packers are all riggers and jumpers.

If you are looking to learn how to skydive, this is definitely the place.

If you want to do a tandem, this place is NOT a tandem factory.

If you're a funjumper, come out and hang with other funjumpers. There's always a cold (soft)drink in the fridge.

I said I was would never do it! I never had any desire to jump out of a perfectly good airplane! A friend of mine has been taking classes at Blue Ridge for a few months, and is working on getting her A license. She sent me an email about a GroupOn they were offering for a tandem jump, and I decided to face my fears. Everyone there immediately made me feel welcome. The staff there is amazing! Henrik would be my tandem instructor, and he walked me through everything that I needed to know, and was both professional enough AND personable enough to make me feel comfortable about jumping. The experience was awesome! As soon as we got on the ground I told them I wanted to go up again, and I did! This is the perfect place to go for your first skydiving experience, and a good family to join if you decide to stick with it.

I went with my husband, dad, and friend and it was the very first time any of us had skydived. We originally signed up for the IAD jump which is each of us jumping alone but with an instructor with us on radio. We sat through several hours of instruction to prepare and by the time class was over the winds were too high for us to jump. So we came back the following day. I personally felt better jumping with an instructor physically with me so I jumped tandem, while the guys all jumped as they had planned. We all loved it so much. Skydiving for one is a thrilling and awesome experience but with the staff there they make it even better. Their energy is infectious. So much so, we jumped twice in one day! I do have to thank everyone we met there... Bob, Vick, Charlie, Henrich, and so many others that didn't work there but made a point to share their wonderful experiences and cheer us on. Skydiving is definitely something we want to do again and BRSA will be where we go!

This past weekend I finished up my 25th jump, and successfully completed all of my requirements needed for my A license. I wanted to wait to give a review, so I could be fair in my assessment all the way thru as a student. I had three tandems completed at a different facility in the northern VA area, however, the other dropzone doesn't do AFF training, and recommended I come over to BRSA. I stopped by BRSA a couple of times before ever committing, as I wanted to make sure it was the right place for me. Once I felt comfortable, I went ahead and paid up front for my whole A license progression. It was expensive, but I got a discount for paying in full up front, which made it worth it.
Throughout my progression I had 4-5 different instructors/coaches, each of which has their own areas of focus. At first I was a little apprehensive about all of the switching, but the instructors are really good about communicating with each other, and in the end I realized how much of a good thing it was, because they each gave me awesome feedback.
I never had an issue getting on a load, I ALWAYS felt safe and if I had questions, I felt comfortable to ask my instructors.
I would strongly recommend everyone who is looking for AFF training come to BRSA.

As well, the tandem instructors are very friendly and knowledgeable, and I would recommend to any of my friends that they come for a jump.

I have jumped at a couple other drop zones as a AFF student my friend and I decided to go to blue ridge and give it a shot to see how it was. I have been jumping there ever since the staff is excellent all the way around great instructors awesome packers and there is manifest is top notch. I have never had a problem getting on a load and they are always super helpful. Like I said I was a AFF student when I got there and was working with the instructors to becoming a A licensed skydiver the last day I was there I needed 5 jumps to get my license and sure enough I got it all done I had full support from the whole drop zone all day they made sure I was packed and going up on the next load with instructors to make sure I got my 25th jump I cant say enough good things about Blue Ridge. Also now that I have my A license and looking for my own gear they have been great at assisting me on what to buy so get all the right equipment. I would definitely recommend anyone to start skydiving at blue ridge no matter what tandem to AFF to fun jumping its a great place.

Blue Ridge Skydiving Adventures is the perfect place for anyone who is going skydiving for the first time! Larry was a great instructor and he made me feel very at ease! This was a surprise gift for my birthday from husband and sons. I only had about a 12 hour "notice" that I was going and had no idea what to expect. I was extremely happy with how everything went from the moment I walked in the door. Once we took off I even got a little "guided tour" of the area from the air.Everyone was very friendly and took the time to explain everything that I was going to experience!! I will always remember this birthday and the AWESOME experience that Blue Ridge Skydiving Adventures gave me!

It was my first jump course for Accelerated Free Fall. My instructor Charlie walked me through the detailed procedure of Category A jump. The training session lasted for around 6 hours. I was thoroughly taught about the gear functioning, free fall position, height awareness, communication signals during free fall, aircraft exit procedures, landing patterns, canopy deployment and control procedures, emergency handling procedures and repeatedly simulated the jump from the aircraft exit to landing until I was totally perfect. The instructors and expert sky divers shared their stories and tips which really made my first jump totally comfortable. Although there was some delay due to bad weather, it was totally worth the wait and every time before I geared up they made sure I was completely aware of the emergency handling procedures. In spite of a circumscribed landing area, my instructors helped me on how to figure out a landing pattern based on the winds. After the jump we discussed about various aspects of it and gave valuable feedback on how I could improve in my further jumps. I really look forward to my next jump course at BRSA. I totally recommend them for anyone interested in doing an Accelerated Free fall course and also they have an awesome team to make your tandem diving a memorable one.

My friend and I went for my birthday this past weekend. Overall we had a great experience. The weather was not cooperating, but they were very honest and upfront about how it works and what conditions they needed to get us up in the air. We eventually got up! I was with Larry, who made me feel completely comfortable. I was actually shocked how relaxed I was throughout the whole experience given my general uneasiness with heights. This was my first dive and I couldn't have imagined it going much better. The only drawback was they didn't have a readily available picture/video service for the dive. We would have loved a picture/video for the experience. I tried to set one up early in the week, but was told I'd have to wait and see if they had the appropriate staffing on the day we went. When we got there, I was then told I should have booked in advance, and it was too late as they didn't have the guy there who does the pictures/video. That was dissapointing, and I suggest they setup a more formalized process for how you can get pictures/video. Other than that it was an incredible experience. I'd gladly go back in a heartbeat...

Fell out of a plane today... screeching toward almost certain death... what a rush! Fortunately Heinrich had us hooked up to a big nylon canopy that prevented a tragedy. I've had multiple static line jumps in the Army, but this was my first free-fall experience, and it was awesome. All because my thrifty daughter saw a Groupon, got a wild hair up her..., and signed us up. A really fun day at a really nice place with some really friendly folks. Hope to be back soon.

I had a great time skydiving at Blue Ridge. The location is a little ways out into the country but what DZ isn't? The people were friendly and although it's still a smaller outfit they were quite accommodating. The jump prices are also very affordable. I only have 34 jumps and the manager, Bob, was helpful in giving me a short coaching session while I waited for my now call. I had a great jump and I'll definitely go back the next time I'm in the Virginia/ Washington DC area.

For our first skydive, my friend and I were greeted by friendly staff and were immediately entered into our beginning training. I jumped with Charlie and felt at ease at all times. Henrik did my video and pictures and I would definitely recommend getting them - they are incredible. Overall it was an amazing experience and I will definitely be back to Blue Ridge Skydiving Adventures.

I recently completed my first jump AFF course with Blue Ridge Skydiving Adventures. I cannot recommend these guys enough. From the moment I arrived at their facility the staff were nothing but welcoming and curteous. They were able to answer all my questions and alleviate the inherent nervous feelings associated with my first solo jump. Aside from the top notch training the overall vibe or atmosphere of the facility was excellent. The other jumpers that were further along in the program, or already licensed, were all more than willing to discuss their experiences with you. I truly look forward to continuing my training with these guys and to potentially build friendships with everyone for some fun dives later on. Whether you are looking just for a fun tandem jump, or to learn the skill for yourself I highly recommend coming out and meeting these guys.

Yesterday, I jumped out of an airplane with Larry at Blue Ridge Skydiving Adventures. He was fantastic to work with, as was Kai, the videographer who captured my entire terrifying, exhilarating jump.

These people were great - the owner, Charlie, was welcoming and knowledgeable, and everyone made sure to make us feel completely safe without being condescending. We were aware of the danger inherent, as well as the myriad reasons these people love what they do.

They invited us back just to watch, allowed us to partake in a little celebration, and offered libations. It was 95* out, and everybody was a sweaty mess, but no one was judging and everyone was happy.

The jump itself was brilliant. I never felt unsafe, and I can't recommend this crew highly enough. After my first dive, I'm really hoping to go again in October when the trees start to turn. The area is gorgeous and I could've floated around up there for an hour.

If you're going in the Shenandoah Valley area, THIS is the place to do it.

Went skydiving for the first time with Blue Ridge Skydiving Adventures, out of New Market. Got a great deal from Living Social on a tandem jump for two. Everyone there was clearly passionate about their job, and made me feel very reassured. They patiently went over all safety and jump procedures, and all equipment seemed well maintained from the parachutes to the planes. Airport is beautifully located at the foot of the Shenandoah mountains. The jump was from 10,000 feet, and free fall lasted around 40 seconds. We were the first jumpers of the day, but there was no pressure to jump quickly or a mass amount of reservations that made us feel hurried. Great experience, would definitely go again and highly recommend it to others!

I went out for my first tandem a couple of weeks ago, and it was such an amazing experience. First off, it's in such a beautiful part of Virginia - the scenery is just stunning. My instructor Larry was great - I think he was was the perfect person for me because he made me laugh throughout and was very comforting. The plane ride up there was so soothing - I was expecting a bumpy ride, but there was none of that. I made the right choice to get it videotaped - and I'm pretty impressed with the quality of the pictures and video which I received within a week from Phil.

Never thought I'd say this - but I would love to do it again someday, and would come back to these folks!

I had a great time here. The plane I went up in was a small one (took only one of us up at a time) but there are a lot of different kinds of planes which can actually accommodate quite a few people. They took us by appointment on a weekday, so it was really nice.

I've gone up twice already with them and am gearing for a third. The staff are all well-trained, friendly, supportive, and professional. I always feel safe and thoroughly trained.

The scenery is amazing, and the people there love what they do and they do it well.

Beautiful setting in the Shenandoah Valley! I'm an 'almost' 60 year old and felt just like a kid when I went on my very first tandem jump today. The friendliness of the staff as well as their attention to safety made for the most amazing experience. With safety the first concern, my tandem instructor Henrik made sure I knew what to do and when. Before heading to the plane, first he explained and then we practived how to exit the plane, what to do in free fall and what to do at landing time. He went over these things again just before exiting the plane and told me how to guide our way to the ground.
He only had to help remove my hand from the strut as I did not know if he was far enough out of the plane and ready to 'go' but other than that I think I did good. I look forward to my next visit to New Market, VA and the 'family' atmosphere at Blue Ridge Skydiving!

Professionalism: Not an issue here. DZO with a background in military aviation. Questions?

Cloud clearances, wind restrictions, aircraft operations, equipment regulations, landing area traffic rules, etc are not bent, much less ever broken. FAA, USPA, and the local DZ rules are clearly stated, clearly posted (importantly), and unwaveringly observed (most importantly). That translates into a jumping environment where everyone knows what to expect, which translates into minimum potential for the unexpected.

Vibe: Relaxed, which is a result of the professionalism. Never have to feel hypervigilant about your safety.

Aircraft: Two in the fleet - opportunity for formation loads.

Facilities: landing area plentiful; packing area is clean in the summer, clean and warm in the winter. Pack some snacks for the day, but it isn't uncommon for a pot of something to be on hand.

Services: a manifestress who is singularly focused on ground operations, not trying to simultaneously juggle skydiving duties and desires; 2 certified riggers, 2 AFFIs, S&TA

Location: Ideal actually; local terrain, besides being the scenic Shenandoah Valley, makes it easy to maintain awareness during the climb to altitude; cradled between two lines of mountains -- one east, one west -- a quick glance at the hills is all that is required. No need to search for the airfield on the ground to get a feel for your orientation in the world. Just a warm fuzzy to have before a quick spot and a climb out onto the step.

I only spent about 3 hours there but I was welcomed as soon as I walked in the door to a very clean heated packing area. They seemed to be about done for the day it was a little windy but since I showed up to jump the people here willing to jump some more so I could get a couple of jumps in . The pilot and the staff made me feel very comfortable and I even saw some old friends at a new place it was a great day for me I will be back to jump some more ! Thank you Blue ridge I got my fix in !!!

This is a small and fairly new operation somewhat off the beaten path in New Market, VA. I'm almost tempted not to write a review - because the word will get out - sort of like divulging your favorite fishing hole.

It's run by and Charlie and Melissa , a dynamic husband and wife combo, whose friendliness and newly-weddedness only adds to the charm. You can't help but have a good day there and leave with a smile.

It's appears to be a labor of love and, with luck, it will become a rousing success. I, for one, certainly hope so. Although, for selfish reasons, I would probably like to see it remain a hidden gem.

I discovered them somewhat by serendipity (the internet gods) as an AFF student (still) somewhat dissatisfied with the progress and attention I was receiving at another DZ. In a leap of faith (no pun intended) I sent Charlie an email explaining my situation and asking if he could he help me progress through AFF. I immediately got a positive response and was shortly jumping under his tutelage. All I can say, is that I am so glad that I reached out to him. His careful instruction, time spent in debriefings and obvious desire to see his students succeed is deeply appreciated by this less than stellar student!

I look forward to finishing my AFF when the weather warms up a bit, with many fun jumps to come thereafter. If you haven't done so yet, do yourself a favor and go out jump the most scenic drop zone in Virginia!