At an elevation of 3316 meters, this site in Colorado offers a scenic flight experience with some potential for cross-country (XC) flying. It's typically best to launch early in the day to avoid unfavorable wind conditions that may blow over the back. Access to the launch site is facilitated by a shuttle service. Flights in this region are characterized by high alpine conditions with thin, dry, and occasionally very active air. The vertical drop from launch to landing is approximately 3000 feet. There are two main launch sites: Walshes (East Facing) and Ruthie’s (West Facing). Requirements for flying here include a USHPA P-3 rating or equivalent, a Parapente Aspen Membership, a site briefing from a Parapente Aspen Club Member, and essential gear such as a helmet, radio, and reserve parachute. Your paraglider should have a minimum performance of 5:1 L/D. Weather conditions can be monitored via the AWOS at 970/920-0759, located at Ruthie’s Launch. Shuttle services are available for $10 through Aspen Paragliding, and you can check their website for the schedule. Access is also possible via a 4x4 road or chair lifts and gondolas, but you will need Parapente Aspen credentials and a lift pass. The Silver Queen Gondola provides access to both launch sites during the winter and summer seasons. Aspen Paragliding offers special access through the Aspen Ski Co (ASC) in the early season before public access is available. Parapente Aspen members can ride on the school truck for a fee, provided space is available. Aspen Paragliding’s shop is located at 426 South Spring St. during the summer months. Landing Zones (LZ) include the Northstar Nature Preserve on the east side of town and the Marolt Ranch Open Space on the west side, which also serves as a memorial flight park. Visiting pilots must obtain a membership in the local club and provide proof of their USHPA rating. They must also check in with a club officer or local tandem instructor and demonstrate an understanding of local site rules. Acceptable flying conditions generally include wind gusts not exceeding 12 mph, with gusts no higher than 18 mph. A southerly wind component is usually not favorable. Valley winds are also a concern due to the Venturi effect, so winds at the airport should stay below 15 mph. There are few natural obstacles at the launch sites, but the Marolt LZ has power lines and trees on the east side. There is a strict No Fly Zone around the gondola, extending 1,000 feet horizontally on all sides of the lift line. Violating this zone can result in a suspension of flying privileges. Additionally, during the winter season, pilots must avoid flying over chair lifts and maintain a flight path 45° away from the lift line. For more information, visit: - Aspen Paragliding: [Aspen Paragliding](https://www.aspenparagliding.com/visiting-pilots/) - Facebook Group: [Parapente Aspen](https://www.facebook.com/groups/536682599707340/) Watch a flight video here: [YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k5cKsBciK4c)