Paragliding Whitwell main takeoff, TN

Whitwell, located in Tennessee, USA, offers a popular paragliding site with an elevation of 2,300 feet MSL and 1,450 feet AGL. The site is frequently used and known for its thermalling opportunities, making it a great spot for cross-country (XC) flights. Ideal wind direction for launching is 150°, but light winds between 120° and 180° are also acceptable. For paragliding, the ideal wind velocity ranges from 5 to 15 mph, with a maximum of 20 mph. The glide ratio to the 1st Baptist Church Landing Zone (LZ) is 5.5:1, and to Castle’s LZ, it is 4.5:1. Pilots must have a minimum rating of Paragliding Intermediate (P3) with an authorized safety observer present during each launch, and prior approval from the Board of Directors or the Flight Regulatory Program (FRP) committee. Cliff Launch (CL) and/or Assisted Windy Cliff Launch (AWCL) skills are required. For hang gliding, a minimum rating of Hang Gliding Intermediate (H3) is necessary, along with CL and/or AWCL skills. Side wire assistants are recommended in winds exceeding 8 mph, and a keel assistant in winds exceeding 12 mph. Safety considerations include the need to climb above launch immediately or head to the landing zone. Thermals are often found out front, providing lift on the way out. Pilots should exercise caution regarding the glide to the closest available LZ. Landing at the Whitwell 1st Baptist Church LZ is prohibited during Sunday morning services (9:45 am to 12:00 pm CT). Pilots are advised to land elsewhere during this period and to respect the landowners by refraining from the use of alcoholic beverages, profanity, and other questionable activities. For more information, visit the Tennessee Tree Toppers website: https://tennesseetreetoppers.net/pilot-information/whitwell/whitwell-launch/ Stay updated with the local club on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Whitwell.SVS.justfly/ Explore more about Whitwell on Soaring Road Trip: https://www.soaringroadtrip.com/whitwell