Mount Tom is a popular hub for paragliders. With its dark brown, unprotected cliffside, the afternoon and evening sun bakes the side of the mountain, sending hot air and wind up into the sky, acting as a natural lift chimney for those who dare to jump off. Because of this natural phenomenon, the mountain can often be seen with circling blips of color from the center of Easthampton. Gazette reporter Sam Ferland samferly joined experienced paraglider John Gallagher for a tandem flight on Friday, July 17, 2026. Photo caption: Peter Williams paraglides around Mount Tom. For the dailyhampshiregazette #massachusetts #journalism #photography #paraglide #mounttom Paragliders prepare their equipment for flight on top of Mount Tom. Stephen Pfammatter attempts to catch a cycle of wind during takeoff on top of Mount Tom. Peter Williams watches other paragliders fly around Mount Tom. A paragliding wing and cables are prepared on top of Mount Tom. Peter Williams runs off Mount Tom. John ...