Best Conditions
Description
The paragliding site at Oberwil bei Zug in Switzerland offers a unique flying experience. With an elevation of 945 meters, it is a popular spot for both soaring and cross-country flights. The site has seen some impressive flights, including routes towards Mythen, Glarnerland, and Walensee. Despite the large and gently sloping launch area and easy landing conditions, catching thermals can be challenging, with typically only one or two opportunities to do so.
Launch Site:
- Orientation: Northwest
- Difficulty: Medium
- Elevation: 950 meters
- Cable Car: Yes
- Coordinates: 8.53577419, 47.14810287
- Hiking Time: 10 minutes
To reach the launch site, take Bus No.11 from Zug station or drive to the base station of the Zugerbergbahn (Schönegg). From the top station, walk towards the Montana Institute and follow the hiking trail towards Schönfels. After the first forest section, leave the trail and follow the path along the forest edge to the launch site. The launch area is a flat meadow with two prominent trees and a large rock in between, marked by a windsock. A fee of 2 CHF is required at the launch site.
The Zugerberg is known for its excellent thermals and stunning views, making it a favorite for evening flights. It offers quick accessibility and some of the most beautiful sunsets. However, the thermals can be elusive, often mastered by experienced pilots. On unstable spring days and sunny summer days, thermals can reach up to 2000 meters, making it a paradise for leisure pilots with opportunities for small cross-country flights into the flatlands. Top landings are also possible.
For landing, the main landing site in Oberwil is not visible from the launch but can be easily located from the air. It is situated directly below the nursery, and from there, it is a 10-minute walk back to the base station of the cable car.
Experienced pilots sometimes fly to Guggiwiese or over Zug to Schützenmatte, though this route can be tricky.
Caution:
- Avoid flying during Föhn or Bise winds, as these conditions typically bring tailwinds at the launch site.
- Be cautious of stronger winds from the south-southwest, as the trees can cause turbulence, and the wind can become stronger and more southerly just below the launch site.
For weather updates, visit: [Weather Information](http://www.wwz.ch/index.php?id=719&no_cache=1/index.htm)
For more information about the local club, visit: [Paradel Club Zug](http://paradeltaclubzug.blogspot.de/)
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