When is Skydiving Season?

Key Takeaways
Skydive STL’s skydiving season typically runs from mid March through November, with the dropzone closed during the winter months. Late spring, summer, and fall each offer something unique, from comfortable temperatures and lush green landscapes to vibrant autumn foliage. Because there’s a defined beginning and end to the season, it’s always a good idea to reserve your jump early so you don’t miss your opportunity before operations wrap.

If you’ve been thinking about checking skydiving off your bucket list, one of the first questions you probably have is: When is skydiving season?

The answer depends on where you plan to jump. While some dropzones in warmer climates operate year-round, others only have jumps available during certain seasons. Whether you’re hoping to experience the excitement of a summer skydive or admire Missouri’s incredible fall colors from 14,000 feet, knowing when the season begins – and when it ends – helps you plan ahead. 

When Does Skydiving Season Start?

At Skydive STL, skydiving season begins in mid March.

As winter fades and temperatures become more comfortable, our team prepares the aircraft, equipment, and facilities for another exciting season! Spring weather can still be unpredictable from time to time, but mid March marks the return of regular operations.

If you’re looking for fewer crowds and mild temperatures, early spring can be a fantastic time to make your first jump. Nature is waking back up, visibility is often excellent, and you’ll be kicking off the season alongside our instructors and experienced fun jumpers who have been waiting all winter to get back into the sky.

If you’re planning a tandem skydive, booking your reservation in advance helps ensure you get the date that works best for your schedule.

When Does Skydiving Season End?

At Skydive STL, skydiving season typically ends in November.

While autumn often provides some of the most beautiful jumping conditions of the year, cooler temperatures eventually signal the end of the season. Once late fall arrives, we begin preparing for our annual winter shutdown before reopening the following spring.

Because November marks the final weeks of the season, it tends to be one of our busiest times of year. If seeing Missouri’s colorful fall foliage from above is on your bucket list, don’t wait until the last minute to schedule your jump!

Why is Skydiving Seasonal?

Many people are surprised to learn that not every dropzone operates year-round.

Here in Missouri, the changing seasons play a major role in when we can operate. While conditions on the ground might seem comfortable, there are several practical reasons why Skydive STL closes during the coldest months of the year.

The first is the overall weather. Winter often brings colder temperatures, stronger winds, and weather systems that create fewer suitable jumping days than the rest of the year.

Temperature also changes dramatically with altitude. Even on a pleasant day, the air becomes much colder as the aircraft climbs toward exit altitude. During the winter months, those temperatures can drop well below freezing, making the ride to altitude – and the freefall itself – far less enjoyable than during spring, summer, or fall. No matter what time of year you jump, wearing the right clothing can make a big difference in your overall comfort.

That doesn’t mean colder weather is automatically off-limits everywhere. Some dropzones in warmer parts of the country continue operating throughout the winter. At Skydive STL, however, we choose to focus our season on the months that provide the best overall experience for our guests.

What’s the Best Time of Year to Skydive?

Every season offers something different, and there’s no single “perfect” month for everyone. Your ideal time to skydive depends on the type of experience you’re looking for.

Spring

Spring is one of the best times to begin planning your skydiving adventure.

Temperatures are generally comfortable, the countryside turns bright green, and the season is just getting underway. Since many people wait until summer to book, spring can also offer more flexibility when choosing your preferred jump date.

Summer

Summer is the heart of skydiving season.

Longer daylight hours and warmer temperatures make it our busiest time of year. Although it can be hot on the ground, the air becomes noticeably cooler as you climb to altitude, making the ride up surprisingly comfortable.

If you’re planning a summer jump, reserve your spot early – especially on weekends, which are often our most popular days.

Fall

Ask experienced skydivers about their favorite time to jump, and they’ll most likely tell you fall.

The temperatures are often comfortable, humidity begins to decrease, and the changing leaves create incredible views across the Missouri landscape. It’s one of the most scenic times of the year to experience a skydive.

Since it’s also the final stretch of our operating season, available reservations can fill quickly before we close for the winter.

What About the Best Time of Day?

While the time of year plays a big role in your experience, the time of day can also make a difference.

Morning jumps often feature cooler temperatures, while afternoon jumps can offer warmer conditions and different lighting for your photos and videos. That said, there really isn’t a single “perfect” time that works for everyone – each part of the day offers its own advantages. Ultimately, the best time of day to skydive comes down to your personal preferences for comfort and scheduling flexibility.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best months to skydive?

Late spring and fall are often considered the best months to skydive at Skydive STL thanks to comfortable temperatures and excellent seasonal views. Summer remains an extremely popular choice for those looking to experience the excitement of peak skydiving season.

Does skydiving have a season?

Yes. In many parts of the country – including Missouri – skydiving is seasonal. Skydive STL operates from mid March through November and closes during the winter months. Some dropzones in warmer climates operate year-round.

When does skydiving season start?

At Skydive STL, skydiving season typically begins in mid March, when spring weather allows us to resume regular operations.

When does skydiving season end?

Our season generally ends in November, before we close for the winter months.

Don’t Let the Season Fly By!

The skydiving season doesn’t last forever, and before you know it, November arrives and another incredible season comes to a close. *sad face*

Whether you’re planning your very first tandem skydive or finally checking an item off your bucket list, there’s never been a better time to start planning. Book your tandem skydive, view our skydiving prices, or contact the Skydive STL team with any questions. 

We’ll help you find the perfect date to experience the joy of jumping over the St. Louis area before the season ends. Blue skies!