Paragliding Big Walker Mountain, VA

Big Walker, located in Mechanicsburg, USA, offers a unique paragliding experience with a long ridge soaring opportunity and potential for cross-country flights. The site is managed by Jim Bogle, who owns both the launch and landing zones (LZ). The launch faces slightly north of northwest (~328 degrees) and is suitable for both hang gliders and paragliders. It features a steep and wide slope, providing a 900-foot elevation above the LZ with an approximate 5:1 glide ratio. The LZ is large and well-maintained, allowing for up-slope landings in all directions and includes two flat areas for wheel landings. Amenities at the site include three port-a-johns, picnic tables, free firewood, a firepit, free camping electricity, running water, and a heated shower. Pilots are required to have at least an H-3/P-3 rating, although experienced H-2/P-2 pilots can fly under the right conditions with an experienced local mentor. All pilots must be current USHPA members and fly with a helmet and reserve parachute. Annual dues for the site are $100. For navigation, use GPS coordinates N37.13317047973985, W80.8973991620129. From I-77 in Virginia, take exit 52 onto Route 42 at Bland, VA. Travel east on Route 42 for 10 miles, then take a right fork onto Route 738. Follow Route 738 for 3.7 miles, then turn left onto State Route 670 (Mt Zion Rd). The LZ will be 0.5 miles on the left, and Jim Bogle's house is across the road from the LZ. Jim can be contacted at (276) 688-4969. For more information, visit [Big Walker](http://bigwalker.com) and [Soaring Road Trip](https://www.soaringroadtrip.com/bigwalker). Flyable wind direction is primarily northwest. The site record is 102.9 km, making it the longest ridge in the East. For additional details, check out [Skywackers](http://skywackers.org/index.php?page=bw).