Parapente Anderson Flats, CA

Anderson Flats, located in the Yosemite region of California, offers a unique paragliding experience. The launch site is at an elevation of 5,400 feet, with a height difference of 593 meters to the landing zone (LZ) at 3,400 feet. This site is rarely used and is known for thermal soaring. The site is accessible via a 4x4 drive, and parking is available at the launch. The campground nearby is generally quiet, except during hunting season, and offers amenities such as shade, a cool creek, and an outhouse. Anderson Flats is flyable from early spring to late fall, and even in winter if the road to the launch is clear of snow. Typical flights include early morning and late-day sled rides, as well as thermal flights from late morning to late afternoon. Pilots have logged flights exceeding three hours and reaching altitudes of 8,000 feet M.S.L., with stunning views of Yosemite Valley. The site is still being explored for cross-country flying potential, with ongoing efforts to identify additional launches and landing areas. The terrain and weather conditions can vary significantly, with thermals ranging from small and punchy to large and smooth. Reaching the main LZ can be challenging depending on wind conditions and wing performance. The LZ is surrounded by tall trees and can be turbulent, with limited bail-out options due to uneven terrain and obstacles like trees and rocks. A high approach is recommended for safety. The best wind direction is a light southerly, but a western component can create rotor effects from nearby Pilot's Peak. The site offers significant lift but also substantial sink. For first-time pilots, an early morning sled ride is advisable. Intermediate and advanced pilots seeking thermals should launch mid to late morning. The LZ can be gusty in the afternoon, making it difficult to descend. Late afternoon and early evening flights are usually extended sled rides, with occasional glass-offs during summer. Gene's launch offers breathtaking views of Yosemite if you reach higher altitudes. Site records include altitudes of 10,500 feet and flight durations of three hours. Cross-country flights have been limited due to the lack of bail-out options, but the views make it tempting for adventurous pilots. Directions to the LZ: From the Bay Area, take HY580 and HY205 toward Tracy. After the Tracy bypass, take HY5 for about a mile, then turn onto HY120 (signposted for Sonora or Yosemite). Stay on HY120, passing through Escalon and Oakdale. In Oakdale, continue on HY120 and HY108. About 20-30 minutes after Oakdale, turn right (signposted for Yosemite) to stay on HY120. Pass through Chinese Camp, Moccasin, Big Oak Flat, and Groveland. Approximately ten miles from Groveland, look for the 'Buck Meadows' sign and turn right onto Hamilton Loop Road opposite the Yosemite Ridge Resort. Follow Moore Creek Road, which is paved for about a mile. After 4 miles, pass Brush Ridge Road on your left and cross a bridge at 4.7 miles. The pavement resumes shortly after the bridge. At 5.9 miles, turn left onto Greenly Hill Road and reset your odometer. The pavement ends again, and Greenly Hill Road veers right at 0.7 miles. At 5 miles, turn left before crossing the Bull Creek bridge. At 10.7 miles from the Moore Creek and Greenly Hill intersection, cross a cattle guard. The LZ is less than a quarter-mile past the cattle guard in a meadow surrounded by tall pine trees. The total distance from Highway 120 to the LZ is 16.8 miles, with a drive time of about 35 minutes. For weather updates, visit: [AccuWeather Oakdale](https://www.accuweather.com/en/us/oakdale/95361/weather-forecast/337178) Access to the site requires a 4x4 vehicle with high clearance. The LZ can be punchy and thermic, especially mid-day in summer. The recent Rim Fire has affected the launch area. For more information, visit: [Fly Zephyr - Anderson Flats](http://www.flyzephyr.com/anderson-flats.html)