Paragliding Upper McKenzie Pemberton, BC

Located at an elevation of 1253 meters with a height difference of 1037 meters, this site is rated highly for its frequent use and excellent thermal soaring conditions. It offers very good cross-country (XC) potential and is considered one of the best takeoff spots in Canada. Top-landing is possible here. The Pemberton Valley is renowned for its stunning natural beauty. For more information, you can visit the local paragliding shop at [Cayoosh Expeditions](https://cayooshexpeditions.ca/home/#contact) or check out the [West Coast Soaring Club](https://www.westcoastsoaringclub.com/project/mckenzie-mountain/) and their [Facebook page](https://www.facebook.com/WestCoastSoaringClub/). The site is suitable for pilots with a P2/H3 rating. To navigate to the upper launch, use this [Google Maps link](https://www.google.com/maps/dir//Pemberton+(McKenzie)+Paragliding+Upper+Launch,+Squamish-Lillooet+C,+BC/@50.3653378,-122.7864597,279m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m8!4m7!1m0!1m5!1m1!1s0x54874b6e49490923:0x326373326a1229f6!2m2!1d-122.7864521!2d50.3656352). **Hazards:** - **Whistler Express:** This strong wind can be localized over Pemberton and may not be detectable at launch. Look for the big white windsock on "the Dome" in front of the lower launch. If it is outstretched from the south, avoid launching. - **North and East Winds:** These can create turbulent air in front of the launch. Both N and E winds can create leeside conditions. **Launch Access:** - Accessible via a 4WD vehicle from McKenzie Basin FSR. The lower launch is approximately 6km up, and the upper launch is about 12km up a rough 4x4 road. Shuttle services are available from the primary LZ. **Launch Description:** - The launch area is a groomed gradual slope with space for over 10 gliders. It can get crowded during peak times. The old hang glider ramp is no longer in use. **Landing Zones (LZ):** - **Paraglider LZ:** Located along the west side of Pemberton Meadows Road, 1.5km north of Pemberton town center. The sports field is the primary LZ, with an alternate LZ (Wray’s field) directly behind it. - **Hang Glider LZ:** Requires an H3 rating for Wray’s field and an H4 for the sports field due to technical landing conditions. **Site Regulations:** - HPAC & WCSC memberships are required for landowners and shuttle services. These memberships can be purchased online or via the shuttle driver. - The sports field must not be used if there are more than 5 non-pilots or any maintenance activities. In such cases, land at Wray’s field. - No commercial access to designated LZs, except for non-commercial tandems at Wray’s field with proper waivers. **Airspace:** - CYA 116 (H) to 10,000' (3048 m) ASL. Class B Airspace above 12,500' (3810m). Watch for helicopter traffic. **Radio Frequency:** - Club: 146.415 MHz and 146.550 MHz - Aircraft: 123.4 MHz and 173.640 MHz **Flying Season:** - Best XC potential is from July to September. **House Thermals:** - Located just off the upper launch to the right and to the left if you follow the ridge down to the lower launch. **Cross-Country Routes:** - Main routes include NW to Owl Mountain, Goat Mountain, and beyond. Southbound to Whistler, SE along Lillooet Lake, and eastbound to Birkenhead and beyond. **Hike and Fly:** - Popular with various trail options. Shuttle services can carry your wing up for a fee. **Shuttle Service:** - Regular shuttle runs during the main flying season. Costs are $10 to lower launch and $20 to upper launch. Contact Guy at 778-892-7733 or Ricardo at 604-352-5171. More details on the [Facebook Shuttle Page](https://www.facebook.com/PembertonShuttle/). For additional information, contact the [British Columbia PG + HG Association](http://www.bchpa.ca/contact-us.html).