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Description
Wolfenschiessen, Switzerland
This paragliding site in Wolfenschiessen offers a launch altitude of 1100 meters and is known for its ease of use. It is frequently utilized for training, schooling, soaring, and cross-country flights.
Flights are possible every Thursday (April-October) and Friday (November-March), as well as during periods of strong upper winds and Föhn conditions. The launch site is conveniently located next to the mountain station, with a take-off direction of NE-E.
Landing Zone: Fallenbach
Altitude: 540 meters
Located a few hundred meters north of the cable car, near a farmhouse where you can find drinks, ice cream, and sandwiches. Be mindful of the valley wind, which can become quite strong.
Cable Car: Geissmattli-Büelen
The cable car ride takes 5 minutes and has two cabins that can accommodate 4 people each. The cost is CHF 7 for a single ride, CHF 30 for a 5-ride pass, and CHF 55 for a 10-ride pass. It operates year-round from 08:00 to 20:00, with remote control operation from the mountain station (press Tel. No. 3). Maintenance is conducted only on specific days, usually Mondays.
Flight Restrictions
The Wolfenschiessen-Büelen area is outside the Buochs-Alpnach control zone, so there are no restrictions. However, for cross-country flights from Büelen, certain restrictions apply.
Directions
From Grafenort, head north to Fallenbach. From there, take the cable car to Büelen. The launch site is a small, moderately steep meadow, well-protected from the wind.
The Büelen area in Wolfenschiessen is centrally located in the Engelberg Valley and is well-sheltered from winds, making it a reliable spot for flights even when Föhn conditions prevent flying in other areas. The infrastructure at both the launch and landing sites is excellent.
Despite the numerous cables (which you need to be aware of), Büelen is a popular training, schooling, and examination site. The landing zone offers great amenities, including a folding area, seating, and a wide selection of sandwiches, ice cream, and drinks. For sushi lovers, there's a fantastic option at the 'Güetli' gas station shop near the Stans-Süd exit.
Cross-country flights from here can reach destinations like Brünig or Flims/Laax. The valley is ideal for initial cross-country attempts, as there are always transport options nearby to help you reconnect with thermals.
Local pilots often fly very close to the trees when ridge soaring, which can be risky due to turbulence. It's advisable to maintain a safe distance from the trees to avoid accidents.
For more detailed information, visit: [Flugschule Emmetten](http://www.flugschule-emmetten.ch/dokumente/Infos%20fuer%20Gleitschirmflieger%20Bueelen.pdf)
When soaring, fly along the ridge in a northerly direction, past the waterfall, and climb. The soaring spot is moderate, and knowing the transport cables is crucial. After take-off, fly as high as possible along the ridge; the lift band usually starts over the second meadow area.
In spring, conditions can be turbulent, and occasionally, a glider may get caught in the trees. Starting slightly above the usual launch site can make it easier to catch thermals. A thermal is located directly to the right of the launch site, near the lift cable.
When flying towards Stanserhorn, be aware of the CTR Buochs.
Difficulty
Be cautious of the numerous cables. Get a briefing or inquire about the locations of the cable car and power lines. Flight restrictions apply due to wildlife; check beforehand.
For more information on the new cable at the landing site, visit: [Flugschule Emmetten - New Cable](http://www.flugschule-emmetten.ch/dokumente/neues%20Seil%20Bueelen.pdf)
Take-off: Immediately beside the farmhouse at the gondola station.
For more information, visit: [FS Titlis](http://www.fs-titlis.ch/)
Watch a video of the site: [YouTube Video](http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HCPF6fBfN58)
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