Paragliding Whitwell Tennessee Tree Toppers, TN

Whitwell, located in Dunlap, Tennessee, USA, is an occasionally used paragliding site with an elevation of 652 meters and a height difference of 430 meters. It serves as an alternative takeoff point where cross-country flights are possible. The site record is 138.4 km. For more information, visit: [Soaring Road Trip - Whitwell](https://www.soaringroadtrip.com/whitwell) and [Tennessee Tree Toppers - Whitwell Launch](https://tennesseetreetoppers.net/pilot-information/whitwell/whitwell-launch/). Ideal wind direction is 150°, with acceptable conditions in light winds ranging from 120° to 180°. Wind velocity for paragliding should be between 5-15 mph, with a maximum of 20 mph. The elevation above mean sea level (MSL) is 2,300 feet, and the elevation above ground level (AGL) is 1,450 feet. 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. Paragliding pilots need a P4 rating or a P3 rating with prior approval and an authorized observer present. Hang gliding pilots require a minimum intermediate (H3) rating with Cliff Launch (CL) and/or Assisted Windy Cliff Launch (AWCL) skills. Flight requirements include understanding and adhering to the Flight Regulatory Program (FRP), which is available at the Henson Gap clubhouse and online. Pilots must be current Tennessee Tree Topper members with a valid USHPA membership and the necessary ratings and skills. Tandem flights and first mountain flights are prohibited at Whitwell. Safety considerations include climbing above launch immediately or heading to the landing zone if unable to do so. Thermals are often found out front, providing lift on the way out. Always exercise caution regarding the glide to the nearest available LZ. Do not land at the Whitwell 1st Baptist Church LZ during Sunday morning services (9:45 am to 12:00 pm CT). During this period, land elsewhere and always show respect for the landowners by refraining from using alcoholic beverages, profanity, and other inappropriate activities.