Parapente Mount Werner Steamboat Springs, CO

Mt. Werner in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, offers a unique paragliding experience with altitudes ranging from 3117 to 3155 meters and a height difference of 1100 meters. This site is occasionally used for thermal soaring and some cross-country flights. There are three takeoff points, with the main one being the most frequently used. Before flying, it is essential to contact the local club, SPHA. For more information on cross-country flying at this site, visit [Wilder Adventures](https://www.wilderadventures.com/launch/1104/steamboat-sp-steamboat-springs). ### Pilot Rating and Requirements All pilots must be current members of USHPA and SPHA. The club has different membership designations: Flight Director, Associate, and Visiting members. Tandem and mini wing flights are not allowed. Permanent members are either Flight Directors or Associate members, while Visiting members must coordinate with SPHA Flight Directors. Pilots must have the following USHPA ratings and SPHA membership designations: - **Master Hang (H5), Advanced Hang (H4), Master Para (P5), Advanced Para (P4)**: Visiting members with these ratings need permission from an SPHA Flight Director. - **Intermediate Hang (H3) or Intermediate Para (P3)**: Visiting and Associate members require permission, skill observation, and direct on-site guidance until approved by an SPHA Flight Director. - **Novice Hang (H2) or Novice Para (P2)**: Require permission, skill observation, and direct on-site guidance during flying activities by an SPHA Flight Director. ### Visiting Pilots Visiting pilots must become Visiting pilot members of SPHA and have the appropriate USHPA ratings and necessary SPHA Flight Director oversight. Contact local Flight Directors 48 hours in advance for assistance and guidance. ### Mountain and Launch Access Access to the Mt. Werner flying site is by permitted vehicle only; no hike and fly is allowed. Road permits are obtained by the SPHA Board of Directors before the flying season. Limited permits are available for Flight Director and Associate members. The launches are: - **Storm Peak (HG & PG)** - **Heavenly Days (HG)** - **Upper Valley View (HG & PG *P4 only*)** Parking for Heavenly Days and Upper Valley View launches is adjacent to the top gondola building, while parking for Storm Peak launch is on Storm Peak Summit. Winter flying is arranged on a case-by-case basis with SSRC mountain operations personnel. ### Landing Zones (LZ) The primary LZ is Steamboat School Board Land, known as Whistler Park. The other primary LZ is the Hay Field, which is less restrictive and more suitable for lower airtime pilots. ### Safety Safety is the top priority. Required equipment includes a helmet, locking carabiners, an emergency parachute, and a programmable two-way radio. Flight Directors can shut down flying for any reason, including deteriorating weather or inadequate equipment. Pilots must complete a hang and para check before launching and adhere to the Risk Management plan for Mt. Werner. ### General Guidelines Pilots must maintain a safe distance from the gondola building, ski lifts, and other obstructions. Follow basic ridge soaring rules: avoid traffic to the right, clear all turns, the first glider in thermal dictates turn direction, and the lowest glider has the right of way. For more details, visit the [SPHA website](https://www.flysteamboat.org/). ### Resource Conservation This operating plan works with multiple partners and plans to secure free flight activities at Mt. Werner. Various agreements and permits are in place to support these activities. The Board of Directors and Flight Directors ensure the successful implementation of this plan.