Find automatically the best sessions nearby in 1 click.
Simple, customizable and collaborative
Best Conditions
Description
Blue Rock in Vallejo, CA, is a frequently used paragliding site known for its soaring and thermalling opportunities, with some potential for cross-country flights. The site is best suited for P3-rated pilots and above, though P2 pilots can request an introduction by calling 707-YOU-SOAR. Note that hang gliders are not permitted at this site.
The site features a primary ridge with plentiful land-out options between the ridge and Columbus Parkway. However, there are limited top-landing or side-hill landing options, unlike Channing Hill. Active piloting is required due to the site's conditions.
Flying conditions at Blue Rock are reliable from March through October, with less frequent flying in December and January. During the spring, flights are particularly enjoyable. Summer flying can be turbulent from noon to 4 PM, but evenings are generally calmer. Fall flights are smooth with plenty of lift until sunset.
For launching, the upper north launch is recommended in mild to light winds, but be cautious of potential partial collapses as thermals mix. The lower launch should be used if there is sufficient breeze while hiking up. The north slope launch is popular for its smooth launches and protection from sinking out, though it typically has a slight crosswind. Be cautious when lifting your wing at the top of the slope to avoid being dragged into a rock formation.
Landing options are extensive, with minimal turbulence or rotor. The typical landing zone is the gravel lot of the Solano College parking area, but this requires crossing Columbus Parkway with sufficient height. A bailout landing zone is available along the north side of St. Johns Mine Road.
For current conditions and site information, contact 707-YOU-SOAR. Emergency contacts include Joel McMinn (707-758-1078), Ron Lee (707-333-8308), Rob Black (707-853-6912), and Klaus Schlueter (415-425-7391).
Directions to Blue Rock: Take I-80 to the 'Napa-37/Columbus Drive' exit in Vallejo. Proceed east on Columbus Drive for a little over a mile. The ridge will be on your left. Park at Solano College and walk up St. Johns Mine Road to the launch sites.
For more information, visit:
- [Sport Paragliding](https://www.sportparagliding.com/blue-rock-vallejo-ca-paragliding)
- [Wilder Adventures](https://www.wilderadventures.com/launch/853/blue-rock-vallejo)
- [Bay Area Hang Gliding Club](http://www.bhgc.org/sites/#site_blue-rock-vallejo-ca)
- [Weather Forecast](https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=38.136409&lon=-122.195852&site=rev&unit=0&lg=en&FcstType=text#.Y1jzbz1Bypo)
- [Paragliding San Francisco](https://www.paraglidingsanfrancisco.com/blue-rock-old/)
- [Fly Zephyr](http://www.flyzephyr.com/blue-rock-vallejo.html)
Popularity: 71 Views
