Freedom of flight — paragliding in the Sierra

Blake Paiement soars through the air near Kingsbury Grade on March 31. Photo Copyright 2016 Carolyn E. Wright

Swaying in the wind currents it’s like the paraglider is doing a dance in the air.

Blake Paiement, 21, with his green, yellow and white parachute-like contraption is a striking contrast against the blue sky. He soars toward the Carson Valley after having launched from the top of Kingsbury Grade.

Brad Paiment looks for a safe landing spot. Photo Copyright 2016 Carolyn E. Wright

“I was above Heavenly saying ‘hi’ to the skiers,” the Gardnerville resident told Lake Tahoe News March 31 after he landed a couple hundred yards from Foothill Road.

The views, thrills and freedom are what drive Paiement to strap on the harness and other gear a couple times a week. Then he propels himself into the air, catching the wind to get a bird’s-eye view of the local terrain.

— Lake Tahoe News staff report