Paragliding Bellyache, CO

Bellyache Ridge in Colorado, USA, is a popular morning paragliding site, known for its consistent flying conditions. The site faces northeast to southeast and is typically flyable from 7:00 am to noon. The prevailing wind comes from the southwest to northwest, with the morning katabatic flow from the Rocky Mountain Divide facilitating an easterly wind flow. This dynamic, combined with sun and light thermals, usually provides a 4 to 6-hour window for flying. Morning winds range from 3 to 10 mph, and each pilot must determine safe flying conditions individually. The launch area is a dirt and grass open space where three gliders can be laid out span-wise and two deep. The left side of the launch is more suitable for new pilots due to its gradual slope, while the right side, with an abrupt drop-off, is recommended for more experienced pilots. Wind direction for launch works from southeast to north-northwest, with a general trend from southeast early morning to northeast-north-northwest late morning. The site is thermic, but ridge soaring is possible early morning before 8 am with the katabatic flow. Pilots should have a solid forward launch due to variable winds. The landing zone is bordered by a river to the south, a barb wire fence and railroad tracks to the north, and is as long as two football fields with sage on the northwest end. An interstate lies to the north and a two-lane highway to the south. Pilots should be aware of potential valley wind pick-up on landing approach and ensure they have enough height for an easy approach. For miniwings, Bellyache is best flown in the morning. The launch is low sloping, requiring a strong forward launch or wind in your face prior to takeoff. This is not a high wind site due to the valley's rotor potential. The smallest recommended wing to make the landing zone is 12m, and high-speed landings are discouraged due to driver distraction on I-70. Communications are conducted on radio frequency 151.955 MHz. The glide ratio is an easy 3:1. Recommended wind ranges are 10 to 15 mph at 18,000 feet for hang gliders and 5 to 15 mph at 18,000 feet for paragliders. There are no hang glider tie-downs. Directions to the site: Follow Interstate 70 to Edwards exit 163. Turn south from the exit ramp, then follow Edwards Access Road to the four corners of Edwards. Take a right on Highway 6 and 24, then follow the highway to the trailer parks. Take the next right after the trailer park onto Hillcrest Drive, drive 200 yards to the railroad tracks, then take an immediate left onto Red Canyon Estates Road. Follow the road until it turns to dirt and continue to the end, which is the landing zone meeting area. Weather conditions typically feature winds averaging 8 to 12 mph early, with lighter conditions mid-morning. Late morning can see moderate thermals with winds increasing from 5 to 15 mph in stronger cycles. By noon, the prevailing wind mixes down, and flying is usually done for the day. The site is known for its consistent conditions. For emergencies, call 911 and Vail Mountain Rescue. The site is remote, so a helicopter may be called if needed. The local EMS knows the site and has GPS coordinates. For more information, visit the RMHPA Bellyache Site Guide: https://rmhpa.org/bellyache-site-guide/ Contact David Champaign at www.VailValleyParagliding.com or Greg Kelley at www.aircrossusa.com for site contacts and tandem passenger inquiries.