Solo from 3,000 Feet: The First Jump Course in Gimli

GIMLI SKYDIVE FIELD GUIDE

Solo from 3,000 Feet: The First Jump Course in Gimli

An all-day, instructor-led program that teaches equipment, safety and freefall technique before a solo parachute jump—ideal as a one-time thrill or the first step toward certification.

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Solo from 3,000 Feet: The First Jump Course in Gimli.

Duration
8 hours
Location
Gimli
Operator
Skydive Manitoba
Category
Skydive

Adventure brief

Solo from 3,000 Feet: The First Jump Course in Gimli

Experience the thrill of skydiving with our First Jump Course, where you'll learn essential skills and safety protocols before making your solo jump from 3,000 feet. Enjoy a breathtaking freefall and guided parachute landing, all while surrounded by the town of Gimli.

Gimli, located along the stunning shores of Lake Winnipeg in Manitoba, offers a prime setting for skydiving enthusiasts seeking an adrenaline rush amid picturesque vistas. The First Jump Course at Skydive Manitoba is a gateway for thrill-seekers eager to experience the ultimate freefall. This adventure begins on solid ground, where expert instructors guide you through essential safety protocols, skydiving fundamentals, and body positioning. Once prepared, you'll ascend to 3,000 feet in a sturdy aircraft, and then—nothing but open sky ahead. The freefall lasts approximately one minute, during which the expansive landscape unfolds beneath you—vibrant lakes, lush forests, and the sprawling town of Gimli. The sensation of soaring through the air, with the earth rapidly approaching, creates an electrifying moment few experiences match. After the exhilarating descent, a guided parachute landing gently brings you back to the ground. What makes Skydive Manitoba unique is its friendly, professional atmosphere paired with the breathtaking backdrop of Lake Winnipeg, making each jump both safe and spectacular. The site’s history as a popular skydiving destination adds a layer of local charm, drawing adventure lovers from across the region. Whether you're celebrating a milestone or simply craving a new challenge, this course offers an unforgettable taste of flight in a welcoming, outdoor-focused environment. The staff’s look of encouragement and their impressive safety record make it a reliable spot for first-time jumpers to face the sky confidently. Broader than a typical thrill, skydiving here becomes a shared story of boldness, scenic beauty, and pure adrenaline. So, gear up and take that leap—Gimli’s skies await your courage.

Route Schematic

Day profile and stops

A typical day progresses from meeting and instruction through a lunch break to afternoon airborne jumps.

  1. Meet at Skydive Manitoba

    Participants gather at the operator's facility to check in and begin the day's briefings and gear checks.

  2. Classroom and gear briefing

    Morning instruction covers equipment, freefall body position and emergency procedures, plus hands-on familiarization with your kit.

  3. Lunch in Gimli

    There is a break for lunch; the town of Gimli is nearby and offers several restaurant options.

  4. Afternoon solo jump

    In the afternoon you'll make a solo jump from a minimum of 3,000 feet, with instructor assistance for parachute deployment and radio guidance for landing.

Participants must meet operator restrictions: you must be at least 18 years of age, with weight limits of 230 lbs for men and 200 lbs for women.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE TRAINING

Hands-on safety and freefall technique

The course covers skydiving equipment and how it works, correct freefall body position, and emergency procedures so you leave the classroom prepared for the jump.

THE JUMP

A one-day solo jump from 3,000'

In the afternoon you'll make a solo exit from a minimum altitude of 3,000 feet; a certified instructor assists deployment of your main parachute and your freefall lasts roughly two to five seconds before the canopy opens.

THE LANDING

Radio-guided canopy control and landing

After canopy opening you'll perform basic parachute manoeuvring and be guided in for landing by another instructor using a radio. The day includes a lunch break with restaurants available in nearby Gimli.

What the day feels like

What the day feels like

This is an immersive, full-day course that combines classroom briefings, hands-on gear familiarization and a supervised solo jump—the day moves from instruction to an afternoon exit and a radio‑guided landing.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this course suits—and who should reconsider.

1
First-time adult jumpersDesigned for adults making their first solo skydive who meet the operator's age and weight requirements.
2
Aspiring certificantsAppropriate as a one-day introduction and can serve as the first step toward certification for adults within the stated limits.
3
Weight-restricted participantsNot suitable for participants who exceed the operator's weight limits: 230 lbs for men and 200 lbs for women.
4
Minors / Under-18sNot suitable—participants must be at least 18 years old to join the course.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

Timing & Duration

This is an all-day course lasting approximately 8 hours.

Meeting point

Meet at Skydive Manitoba to check in and begin instruction.

What to bring

Wear clothing suitable for the weather. Running shoes work well but footwear must be closed-toe and have no hooks for laces.

Eligibility & limits

You must be at least 18 years old. Weight limits are 230 lbs for men and 200 lbs for women.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long is the First Jump Course?

The course runs about 8 hours.

Where and when do we meet?

You meet at Skydive Manitoba to check in and begin the day's instruction.

Will an instructor jump with me?

The course culminates in a solo jump; a certified instructor assists deployment of your main parachute and another instructor guides your landing by radio.

From what altitude do I jump and how long is the freefall?

You exit at a minimum altitude of 3,000 feet; your freefall will be about two to five seconds before the parachute opens.

Are there age or weight limits?

Yes. Participants must be at least 18 years old. Weight limits are 230 lbs for men and 200 lbs for women.

Will I learn to steer and land the parachute?

Yes. The course teaches how to steer and land the parachute and includes basic canopy manoeuvring under instructor guidance.

How this guide was prepared

This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.

  • Verified: 2026-09-12T12:12:25.123Z

Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.

Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.

Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.

Solo from 3,000 Feet: The First Jump Course in Gimli