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Description
Blossom Valley, located in California, USA, is a frequently used paragliding site known for its reliable mountain flying conditions and thermalling opportunities. It is a popular spot for experienced pilots looking to practice cross-country (XC) flying. However, it is important to note that there is no official landing zone (LZ) at this site.
Blossom Valley is not a primary recommended site by the San Diego Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association (SDHGPA) due to significant legal and skill-related restrictions. Despite this, many local pilots fly here regularly. The site has a history of accidents, ranging from minor injuries to fatalities, so it requires a high level of skill and caution.
The site is flyable most days of the year, with conditions varying from long summer glass-off sessions to punchy spring XC flights and weak winter laps. However, due to the lack of official LZs and the number of accidents, it is recommended for pilots with P4 skills.
Blossom Valley is known for its turbulent conditions during peak heating, contributing to its high accident rate. Hazards include the rowdy house thermal known as Thumper, low flying behind Amen Ridge, committing to the El Cap crossing too low, and numerous power lines in the valley.
Top landing or side hill landing skills are required as there are no LZs with landowner permission in the valley. The launch site is on private property, and pilots do not have explicit permission to launch or land there. Despite this, local pilots fly here almost every flyable day of the year.
For those interested in flying at Blossom Valley, it is crucial to connect with local pilots, read about local weather stations, and get a full site briefing from an experienced local pilot. Winter tends to be slow, and pilots may have better luck at other sites like Horse Canyon, Little Black, or Palomar Mountain.
Blossom Valley offers a few XC opportunities, including the famous run to El Cap across the valley. However, all use and access are considered trespassing by the landowners, and there are no sanctioned LZs open in the valley.
USHPA membership is required to fly and top land at Blossom Valley. Visiting pilots should not fly without a knowledgeable local present, and it is essential to be aware of high tension power lines running through the valley.
For more information, you can visit the following links:
- [Wilder Adventures - Blossom Valley](https://www.wilderadventures.com/launch/779/blossom-valley-el-cajon)
- [Holfuy Weather Station](https://holfuy.com/en/weather/1129)
- [SDHGPA - Blossom Valley](https://www.sdhgpa.com/blossom-valley.html)
If you have any questions, you can contact the site representative, Nik Hawks, at 619-246-3868 (text first for reliable responses).
Remember, Blossom Valley is not recommended for student pilots due to its hazards and lack of LZ options. Always fly with other experienced local pilots present and ensure you have a full site briefing before attempting to fly here.
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