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Description
Located in the Fraser Valley of South Western British Columbia, just north of the US border and east of Abbotsford, this paragliding site offers a unique experience for pilots. The site is known for its thermal soaring conditions and is suitable for both hang gliding (HG) and paragliding (PG).
The launch is situated at an elevation of 2700' (820 m) ASL on an old logging landing facing northwest. The launch area is cut beside the road with trees on either side, and it can be challenging for paragliders due to a raised berm just before the slope steepens. Winds tend to cross from the left, and the slope below the launch turns into a cliff, making it a good high-flight site for hang gliders.
To reach the launch, take Columbia Valley Highway to Cultus Lake, turn right at Parmenter Road, and then right onto Vedder Mt Forest Service Road. Follow the right-hand fork to go up the front (north) side of the mountain. When you reach the top and the road starts to head south, take the rough dirt road to the left. Halfway up, take the right fork and continue straight to the take-off point.
The landing zone (LZ) is located at Yarrow Sports Park, which is off Sand Road. The LZ is at an elevation of 100' (30 m) ASL and consists of a soccer field with goal posts, bleachers, and a building. Be aware that there is sometimes a chain across the road when the field is not in use. Winds tend to pick up during peak hours of the day (12 - 5 PM). It is crucial not to land in the cultivated fields surrounding the LZ.
The site is somewhat underutilized but offers good soaring conditions, especially in the spring. The mountain is 6 miles long, making it suitable for out-and-return flights. However, the site has had issues with landing fields in the past, so it is important not to land in cropped fields, even if they are cut.
Transportation to the launch requires a 4-wheel drive vehicle due to washouts on the last section of the road. The site operates under informal regulations, but HPAC insurance is required. For the latest information, it is recommended to contact a director from the West Coast Soaring Club (WCSC).
Radio frequencies to be aware of include 123.4 MHz for aircraft, 173.640 MHz, and local frequencies 146.460 MHz or 146.550 MHz. In case of an emergency, dial 911. For flight services, contact Abbotsford at 250-855-1010 or fax 250-855-1181.
For more information, visit the West Coast Soaring Club's site page: http://www.westcoastsoaringclub.com/sites/vedder.php
For additional contacts, refer to the British Columbia Paragliding and Hang Gliding Association: http://www.bchpa.ca/contact-us.html
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