Paragliding Liagardane

Located in Ål, Norway, this paragliding site offers a frequently used launch point at an altitude of 920 meters. It is known for its nice thermal soaring conditions and the potential for good cross-country (XC) flights. Guest pilots are required to contact the local club before flying. The site features a well-maintained south-facing launch area with grass. To reach the launch, turn left onto a gravel road at the no-entry sign and continue for approximately 200 meters. The site is primarily used by the Hallingdal Paraglider Club, which has invested significant volunteer hours in its development. However, all pilots are welcome to fly here. It is crucial to keep the launch area tidy and minimize grass trampling on the landing field to maintain good relations with landowners. In 2014, the Hallingdal Paraglider Club moved the landing zone in Liagardane to the south side of the river. The previous landing agreement has ended, and landing there is strictly prohibited and could result in fines. Information signs will be posted at the launch site. The new landowner is very supportive, and pilots are encouraged to help maintain this positive relationship. For weather data, visit: [Holfuy Weather Station](http://holfuy.com/en/data/304) For flight logs and additional information, visit: [Flightlog](http://flightlog.org/fl.html?l=1&a=22&country_id=160&start_id=34)

Located in the Buskerud region of Norway, this paragliding site offers a takeoff altitude of 1200 meters with a height difference of 700 meters. It is frequently used and known for its excellent soaring conditions, making it a great spot for cross-country (XC) flights. There are multiple takeoff options available, providing flexibility depending on the wind conditions. To reach the takeoff point, follow the road towards Torsetstølane. When the road splits at the tree line, keep to the right and continue up to Torsetstølane. The road is accessible up to the start point once the snow has melted. Until then, you will need to walk from where the snow plowing ends. The takeoff area is a turnaround spot at the end of a gravel road, with a steep drop-off just beyond. Alternatively, you can follow a trail a few hundred meters up and take off from the heather. The landing zone is a large gravel pit east of the road in the valley bottom. The takeoff point is located to the far left in the image provided. The picturesque waterfall nearby is a great feature to fly along for ridge soaring. Please note that there is currently no agreement with the landowner for landing, so the gravel pit must be used for landing. For more information, visit: [Flightlog](http://no.flightlog.org/fl.html?l=2&a=22&country_id=160&start_id=130).

Altitude ranges from 1230 to 1560 meters above sea level with a height difference of 180 meters. This site is occasionally used and is known for short flights. To get there, drive to Vats from Ål, then turn towards Hemsedal and continue driving until you reach the destination. Alternatively, you can drive from Hemsedal, following the road towards Ål over the mountain. Take the road leading to the setra named Reine and walk up to the edge from Reine. Remember to check if the road is open and bring coins for the toll gates. The road is typically closed during winter until May. Reineskarvet, along with Lauvdalsbrea, features a long mountain ridge approximately 19 km long and 4-500 meters high. The ridge where Hilde starts in the picture is a beautiful ridge created by a moraine, a few hundred meters long, best suited for a direct southern breeze. Under favorable conditions, you can work your way up to the main mountain as described. On a less favorable day, you might need to hike higher up. This location is also a good training hill for schools if you are willing to walk a bit. More details can be found at [Flightlog](http://no.flightlog.org/fl.html?l=2&a=22&country_id=160&start_id=294). The take-off area is primarily used as a training ground for flight schools, ideal due to the extensive swampy area below. The take-off is located on the ridge above the huts.

Elevation ranges from 1400 to 1700 meters. This site is occasionally used and is suitable for soaring. There are many takeoff options available. The only reasonable way to reach this site is by top landing. Tor-Erik Stranna has taken chocolate breaks at the top before embarking on long flights out of Hemsedal. If you plan to hike, follow the trail from Trefta. Expect a 2-3 hour hike. For more details, visit [Flightlog](http://no.flightlog.org/fl.html?l=2&a=22&country_id=160&start_id=30).

At an elevation of 1316 meters, this site is regularly used for soaring, with some potential for cross-country (XC) flights. Suitable for pilots with PP2 or PP3 certification. To reach the takeoff point, take the Holdeskarheisen chairlift from the base of the ski resort. After a short descent, transfer to the Tindenheisen chairlift to reach the top. The launch site is located 100 meters to the right as you exit the lift. Both lifts are chairlifts. The launch area is flat and generally trouble-free, with ample space for multiple wings. There are no specific wind considerations at the launch site. If you have any questions about recent wind conditions, you can speak with the staff at the top of the lift. The terrain towards Holdeskaret does not provide much altitude margin. Therefore, set your course towards the landing zone immediately after takeoff. Fly as close to the terrain as possible until you have passed Holdeskaret. In case you do not have enough altitude to safely clear the lift cable, there is an alternative landing area on the slope (a relatively flat area). You will see a kiosk/cabin on the right side of this flat area with the cable in front of you. Use this only in emergencies. During winter, a local wind often comes from westerly directions, intensified by katabatic winds from the plateau within Holdeskaret. This can result in a significant tailwind down Holdeskaret, even if there is little wind elsewhere. This also affects the wind at the landing zone. Pay attention to the windsocks on the masts in Holdeskaret on your way up to gain more insight into the wind conditions. The main landing zone is at the ski center. Be aware of a high-voltage power line on the west edge of the landing field and another high-voltage line crossing the river east of the landing field. Coordinates are approximately accurate. For more precise information, visit: [Flightlog](http://no.flightlog.org/fl.html?l=2&a=22&country_id=160&start_id=209).

Altitude: 1560 meters above sea level Vertical drop: 180 meters This location offers a variety of takeoff options, including lower altitude starts. It is occasionally used for soaring and cross-country (XC) flights. To get there, drive to Vats from Ål. Then, take the turn towards Hemsedal and continue driving until you reach the spot. Alternatively, you can drive from Hemsedal by following the road towards Ål over the mountain. Make sure to check if the road is open and bring coins for the toll booths. The road is usually closed during winter until May. There are many good takeoff spots, but avoid going all the way up as it is very rocky. The easiest place to start is by parking higher up in the pass between Reineskarven and Laudalsbrea. This reduces the vertical distance you need to hike. Walk as far as you feel necessary to ensure you can catch the lift. The site also offers good opportunities for thermal flying once you reach the ridge. This location is also suitable for training if you don't mind a bit of a hike. For more details, visit [Flightlog](http://no.flightlog.org/fl.html?l=2&a=22&country_id=160&start_id=293).

Holdeskaret, located at an elevation of 1202 meters, is a rarely used paragliding site. The flights here tend to be short. The launch point is situated near the Antenna Nord, facing towards Røggjin. For more detailed information, you can visit [this link](http://flightlog.org/fl.html?l=1&a=22&country_id=160&start_id=6781).

Altitude: 792 meters This site is regularly used for soaring, with some potential for cross-country flights. The height difference is between 500-550 meters. Be cautious as it can become turbulent with side winds. Landing arrangements must be made with the farmers at Rotnheim since there is no designated landing field. Important guidelines to follow: - Park at the gravel pit before reaching the take-off area. - It is strictly forbidden to drive down to the landing field. All parking and vehicle traffic should be at the antique shop. - If a large number of pilots are expected, inform the farmer and obtain permission, especially when the grass is high and mowing is imminent. - Always close the gate at the start area after each passage. For more details, visit: http://no.flightlog.org/fl.html?l=2&a=22&country_id=160&start_id=29

Elevation ranges from 1300 to 1450 meters. This site is occasionally used, especially for speedflying in winter, soaring, and sometimes small cross-country flights. The main takeoff direction is northwest. For PP2 starts, some areas require PP4 starts. You take the Totten 2 lift to the top. First, take the chairlift to the mid-station, then the platter lift, walk 300 meters to the left, and you will reach the Totten 2 lift. Your starting point depends on the wind direction. It's crucial to find a launch site facing the main wind direction. Avoid launching in crosswind; instead, walk a bit further around the hill. In calm, northerly, or easterly winds, head slightly left from the lift and continue upwards. Go over the top and usually start on a large snowfield facing east/southeast. This snowfield is a good PP2 start. However, don't go too far if you encounter problems, as it gets steeper. If you start near the cliff edge, it's a PP4 start. In northwesterly winds, go straight left after getting off the lift. The northwest launch is about 100 meters on the north side of the T-bar lift. Find a suitable spot depending on the snow amount. This is a PP2 start. In southwesterly winds, there's a ledge that allows for a south-facing launch from the top. This ledge is a cliff start, PP4. Totten often offers opportunities for ridge soaring in various wind directions. In spring, you might also catch thermals in the areas northeast of Trøim center if you have good glide over the valley. Be aware of wind gradients around and above Vesletotten in northerly winds. In such cases, choose a route into the valley instead of staying in the rotor behind Vesletotten. There is an alternative landing at the campsite in the center. The main landing is at the ski resort. Totten 2 lift is also occasionally used for training, with flights alongside the ski trail. The altitude difference can be up to 250 meters, and landing is at Tottentjernet. During these flights, the start is towards the north. For more information, visit [Flightlog](http://no.flightlog.org/fl.html?l=2&a=22&country_id=160&start_id=26).

Geilotoppen is located north of Geilo. You can reach it by taking the lift up, or you can drive around to the backside and hike up during the summer. The hike takes about 5 minutes with a gentle incline. The takeoff is at the top of the Ola slope, to the left of the lift's summit (see the picture), or at the easternmost point of the Geilo slope. The lift operates in winter and also during the tourist season in summer. For more details, check www.geilotaubane.no. This site is regularly used for soaring, and small cross-country flights are possible.

Altitude ranges from 1200 to 1325 meters. This site is occasionally used and offers opportunities for soaring and cross-country (XC) flights. For PP2 pilots, take off in northern wind or calm conditions. PP3 pilots should start in northwest or northeast winds. If there's a strong west wind, move approximately 400 meters to Tindenheisen for takeoff. In strong east winds, it's better to take the lift up to Totten II. After taking the Fjellheisen lift from the 8-seater, turn right and walk about 150 meters to the top of the hill west of the lift. Ensure you maintain a safe distance from the plateau and lift cables when heading out into the valley. Landing on the plateau near the café is prohibited. Land at the main landing area in the ski center. For more details, visit: [Flightlog](http://flightlog.org/fl.html?l=1&a=22&country_id=160&start_id=2542)

At an elevation of 905 meters, this paragliding site is occasionally used and primarily suitable for soaring. To reach the launch area, turn off the RV7 at Kleiva industrial area and follow the toll road upwards towards Sangefjell. Take the turn towards the tip, which is located near the tree line and visible from the road. The launch area is spacious, but there are many power lines directly out and to the west from the start. This site is not recommended for inexperienced pilots. For more details, visit: [Flightlog](http://flightlog.org/fl.html?l=1&a=22&country_id=160&start_id=5715)

This paragliding site requires good launch wind and thermals. The field is long, making it easy to land back on the field if you don't think you have enough altitude to clear the treetops at the end. There is also a steeper field nearby, but it hasn't been tried yet. Be aware of a telephone/power cable in the area. For more details, visit [Flightlog](http://flightlog.org/fl.html?l=1&a=22&country_id=160&start_id=4821).

Located at approximately 840 meters above sea level, this paragliding site is rarely used. To reach the take-off point, drive to Berg and then hike for about 25 minutes. Ensure there is enough wind to perform a reverse launch and take a few steps forward. After take-off, you can fly out and land in the fields that stretch from the mountainside downwards. There are plenty of fields to land on unless you plan to go on a long-distance flight. For more details, visit [Flightlog](http://flightlog.org/fl.html?l=1&a=22&country_id=160&start_id=1890).

Kalveskallen is a steep mountain cliff that offers a thrilling flying experience. However, it is rarely used and primarily known for local soaring. For more details, you can visit: http://flightlog.org/fl.html?l=1&a=22&country_id=160&start_id=2175

Altitude ranges from 940 to 1060 meters. This site is occasionally used and typically offers short flights. There are two current launch points. The southern slope is located at the very top. Be prepared for the possibility of having to land midway on the flat area below. The middle slope launch is right after the cables for the lighting system cross. From here, you can fly all the way down. The owners of the facility are not particularly enthusiastic about paragliding activities here. It might be beneficial to build a good relationship with them over time, as they are generally reasonable people. Flying is more acceptable when there are fewer people at the facility. For more details, visit [Flightlog](http://flightlog.org/fl.html?l=1&a=22&country_id=160&start_id=1171).

The take-off site is situated at an altitude of 975 meters. It is regularly used for soaring flights and offers excellent launch conditions in the specified wind directions. During winter, you can take the ski lift up with your paraglider bag for free. There are multiple landing options available, but it is important to avoid the main ski slope. For more details, visit: [Flightlog](http://flightlog.org/fl.html?l=1&a=22&country_id=160&start_id=1781) Landing information: [Flightlog](http://no.flightlog.org/fl.html?l=2&a=22&country_id=160&start_id=169)

Located in the Buskerud region of Norway, this paragliding site is occasionally used and offers soaring opportunities with some potential for cross-country flights. The takeoff point is a well-maintained south-facing grassy area at an altitude of 907 meters. To reach the takeoff, turn left onto a gravel road at the no-entry sign and continue for approximately 200 meters. The site is primarily used by the Hallingdal Paraglider Club, which has invested significant volunteer hours in its development. However, all pilots are welcome to fly here. It is crucial to maintain good relations with landowners by keeping the takeoff area clean and minimizing grass trampling in the landing field. Pack your wing on the slope towards the road, not at the western end near the residential house, and avoid parking there as well. Parking is available either at the end of the bus stop north of the road or by the two-story yellow uninhabited house located east of the landing field. Do not park outside the residential (brick) house on the farm. Landings should primarily occur on the eastern part of the field, where it is narrowest. The alternative landing area shown in the image should generally not be used. Use common sense: if the grass is long, try to land at the upper edge of the field, then exit and pack your gear on the slope towards the road. A windsock is located by the river in our landing area. For more details, visit [Flightlog](http://no.flightlog.org/fl.html?l=2&a=22&country_id=160&start_id=34).

The takeoff point is situated at the top of the ski slope. This location is occasionally used for paragliding, offering opportunities for soaring and some cross-country (XC) flying. For more details, you can visit [this link](http://no.flightlog.org/fl.html?l=2&a=22&country_id=160&start_id=619).

This site, situated at an elevation of 737 meters, is rarely used for paragliding. It is primarily suitable for soaring flights. For more details, you can visit [this link](http://no.flightlog.org/fl.html?l=2&a=22&country_id=160&start_id=236).

At an elevation of 993 meters, this paragliding site is occasionally used and offers fairly good cross-country (XC) flying potential. To reach the launch site, start by ascending along the pipelines behind Rud power station, which involves climbing 1700 steps. After the steps, continue by climbing two fixed ladders. Follow the trail past two concrete ventilation chambers. The launch area is cleared and situated diagonally up and west of the upper ventilation tower. For more details, visit: [Flightlog](http://flightlog.org/fl.html?l=1&a=22&country_id=160&start_id=5392)

At an elevation of 884 meters, this paragliding site is occasionally used. It offers opportunities for soaring and mini cross-country flights. To reach the take-off point, head north on highway 50 from the store in Hovet and follow Sisseldalsveien all the way. There is a small parking area near a cabin and a larger parking area 100 meters further ahead. The take-off is located 50 meters from the road. For more details, visit [Flightlog](http://flightlog.org/fl.html?l=1&a=22&country_id=160&start_id=1480).

Located behind the Termikk & Rotor farm in Gol, this paragliding site offers an elevation of approximately 520 meters. The site is occasionally used and is known for its soaring conditions. Access is via the Herad exit. For more details, visit [Flightlog](http://flightlog.org/fl.html?l=1&a=22&country_id=160&start_id=103).

At an altitude of approximately 1200 meters, this site is occasionally used for soaring and panoramic flights. It is suitable for pilots with a PP2 rating, though some areas require a PP4 rating due to steep launches. To reach the launch sites, take the Holdeskar chairlift from the valley station, followed by the Roni chairlift to the top. Both lifts are chairlifts. There are two main launch areas: For southeast winds, after disembarking from the chairlift, head right and maintain your altitude by walking eastward. The first launch area is about 300 meters away and is used for southern winds. If the wind is more easterly, walk further out towards the ridge. Do not lay out your wing too early; walk further out to ensure you have enough height to clear the edge towards Holdeskaret. Be cautious of potential lee-side conditions if the wind is from the northeast but appears to be southeast. If unsure, walk to the edge and check the wind direction. With a westerly wind component, you may be partially sheltered by Røggjin. Eastern winds often provide good soaring conditions. Landing is at the main landing area in the ski center. For northwest winds, walk about 300 meters north after getting off the lift. Find a suitable hill and launch towards the valley. There are no established landing areas in the valley below, and you will not be able to return to the main landing area in the ski center. You can land in some large fields near the OPK clubhouse in Tuv. Be cautious of power lines over many of the small fields near Skinnfellgården. For more details, visit: [Flightlog](http://no.flightlog.org/fl.html?l=2&a=22&country_id=160&start_id=123)

At approximately 1125 meters, this site is occasionally used for soaring and panoramic flights. It is recommended for pilots with a PP4 rating. Instead of using the Totten 1 start, we suggest the start between Fjellheisen and Hamarheisen. Take the 8-seater lift up. After disembarking, head left towards the northeast. After about 100 meters, you will see a small hill on your right. This is the take-off point. Since December 2004, the Totten 1 start in Hemsedal must be used with great caution due to the proximity of the new 8-seater lift compared to the old 3-seater lift. We recommend using the start between Fjellheisen and Hamarheisen to avoid conflicts and accidents. The western part of the Totten 1 start area should be avoided. However, starting towards the north and east is still possible. There is also a start point near the antenna further east, suitable for easterly winds. This start point faces the valley east of the antenna, but it offers limited clearance to the valley floor, and some pilots have had to land there. Be cautious and ensure you gain as much lift as possible over the edge. Avoid starting here if there is a southeast wind, as you will be in the rotor from Totten. In winter 2002, with a DHV2 wing, I had a 40-meter clearance over the edge with a 3 m/s easterly wind. A weak lift over the western side of the valley helped a bit with altitude, but the clearance was not substantial. Are we soon getting paragliders with a glide ratio over 10? Landing options include the main landing area in the ski resort or the parking lots if it's summer and there are few cars around. The chairlift operates on many weekends throughout the summer and daily during the main holiday season. Check with the tourist information or the ski resort for more details. [More information](http://no.flightlog.org/fl.html?l=2&a=22&country_id=160&start_id=122).