Paragliding Bidwell Park_Julien's launch_Chico, CA

Bidwell Park in Chico, California, offers a regularly used soaring ridge ideal for thermalling. While small cross-country flights are possible, they are rare. The site record stands at 27.6 km. Julien's launch is a cliff launch situated about 300 feet lower than the Rattle Snake launch, requiring pilots to bench up to gain altitude. The launch area is open and free of rocks, with a house thermal right at the launch point. Optimal wind conditions are SSE (130-170 degrees) at 10 mph, with a maximum gust factor of 4. Before flying at Bidwell Park, you must have an official site introduction. Contact Jon ahead of time, and if he is unavailable, he will arrange an intro with another qualified pilot. Additionally, you need to obtain a permit from the Chico City and Parks Department during regular business hours at Park Division, 965 Fir Street, Chico, CA 95928. A P3 rating is required, or a P2 rating if accompanied by someone with a P3 rating or higher. For wind conditions, call the Chico Municipal Airport's automated weather service at +1 (530) 879-3850. Ideal wind conditions are from 130° - 170° at around 10 mph, with no gusts. The site can work with 180° - 190° winds, but turbulence on the ridge in these conditions is dangerous. Weather.com is recommended for accurate weather updates, looking for SSE at 8-10 mph. The marked landing zones (LZs) are mostly free of rocks, but be cautious of potential tripping hazards. Avoid power lines, which mark the Class D airspace. If you go cross-country, stay to the east to avoid this airspace. You need to be at least 1000 feet over launch to cross the high-tension power lines to Horseshoe Lake, though crossing is not encouraged due to the difficulty in spotting the lines from the air. Always be mindful of horses, giving them plenty of space, and avoid kiting your glider or landing near them. Carry a first aid kit and know how to treat rattlesnake bites. While waiting at launch or in the LZ, pull out StarThistle to help maintain the area. For more information, visit [Fly Zephyr's Bidwell Park page](http://www.flyzephyr.com/bidwell-park-chico-ca.html). Contacts: - WhatsApp: Tuscan Surfers - Facebook: [Tuscan Surfers – Bidwell Park Paragliding](https://www.facebook.com/groups/1628262000834128/) - John Stallman: +1 (530) 864-5110 - HAM Frequency: 144.445 MHz Park Map: [Bidwell Park Bike Map](http://www.chico.ca.us/general_services_department/park_division/documents/Bidwell_Park_Bike_Map.pdf) You must have a permit and sticker to fly this site. Contact site administrators Jon Stallman, Shad Preston, or Martin Roland for more details.