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Description
Located in the Fraser Valley of South Western British Columbia, Canada, this paragliding site offers a scenic hike and fly experience. To reach the launch, drive to Cultus Lake and follow the Columbia Valley Highway to Sleepy Hollow Road. Turn left onto Sleepy Hollow, then take a right at the next fork. Continue on this road, which turns to gravel after a few kilometers, and take the first right after crossing a bridge. Drive for about 30 minutes on the main road, then take the right fork and drive 10 more minutes until you reach a parking area. From there, it's a 10-minute hike up the trail.
The launch site, known as Baldy, requires an additional 1-hour hike along a relatively easy and scenic trail, gaining 260 meters (850 feet) in elevation. The launch is a north-facing groomed slope at 4800 feet (1450 meters) ASL, with Baldy itself at 5660 feet (1726 meters) ASL. It is launchable in all directions except WNW and has a set-up area for several gliders. Please avoid littering and damaging vegetation, as the trail is a maintained recreation area.
For landing, there are several large fields with friendly landowners in the area. One of the safest options is a large field on the Soowahlie Reserve, which is at 150 feet (50 meters) ASL and is overgrown and untended. Another option is a sports field between the petting zoo and Cultus Lake Elementary School.
The best flying season is during the summer months. The site is suitable for both ridge and thermal soaring, making it ideal for paragliding and possibly hang gliding. While the cross-country potential is good, it remains largely unexplored. The glide from Baldy to Cultus LZ is over 9 kilometers.
Transportation to the start of the trail requires a 4-wheel drive vehicle. The site is unregulated, so it's advisable to contact local pilots for the latest information. For local contacts, please reach out to a WCSC director.
Radio frequencies to note are 123.4 MHz for aircraft, 173.640 MHz, and local frequencies 146.460 MHz or 146.550 MHz. In case of emergency, dial 911.
For more information, you can visit:
- [West Coast Soaring Club](http://www.westcoastsoaringclub.com)
- [Paragliding Forum Flight Log](https://www.paraglidingforum.com/leonardo/flight/1678973)
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