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Description
The Chäserugg peak, located on the Churfirsten ridge overlooking the Walensee, offers a stunning paragliding experience. With an elevation of 2262 meters above sea level, it provides a vertical drop of approximately 1800 meters from the lake's surface, making it one of the highest over-the-water flying sites globally.
The launch site is a relatively flat, rocky alpine meadow, which can be challenging for less experienced pilots. The area is known for its strong thermals, especially on the south side, which can also become turbulent. The scenery along the southern cliffs is breathtaking.
Access to the launch site is via the Iltios cable car from Unterwasser to Chäserugg, followed by a 10-minute hike to Hinterrugg. Be prepared for immediate thermal activity upon takeoff.
For those looking to start towards the northwest, there is an alternative launch spot slightly higher up and around the corner, though it is rarely used.
The landing zone is the same as the Schrina flying site. Please respect the rules and avoid landing elsewhere. The cable car station from the lake/landing area is accessible by car or train, requiring about a 55 km drive (approximately 1 hour) from Walenstadt to Unterwasser.
The site is best suited for experienced pilots due to the challenging takeoff conditions and the potential for strong winds. The west wind can become too strong quickly, while northwest winds are manageable. For north winds, it is better to start on the flat ridge to the right of the avalanche barriers.
For more information, visit:
- [Gleitschirmclub Spitzmeilen](http://www.gc-spitzmeilen.ch/index.php?option=com_content&task=blogsection&id=13&Itemid=123)
- [Just Acro](http://justacro.com/startplaces/switzerland/walensee-chaserugg)
- [Bergbahnen Toggenburg](http://www.bergbahnentoggenburg.ch/sommer/)
The Chäserugg area offers numerous cross-country flying opportunities, including routes to Säntis, Hoher Kasten, and Ebenalp. For those flying south, there are excellent train and bus connections from Walenstadt to Unterwasser, typically taking around 1 hour and 16 minutes.
Due to the exposed nature of the site, wind strength can quickly become an issue, regardless of direction. The easiest takeoff direction on Hinterrugg is west. South-facing launches are more challenging in summer but easier in winter with snow.
The launch sites are generally demanding, with some very short runways. Avoid launching with insufficient wind, and be cautious of thermal rotors on the southwest edge in summer. Do not launch during Föhn conditions. There is a wildlife protection period from May 14 to June 14, during which flying from the east launch site is prohibited.
A voluntary start/landing fee of 5 CHF per day includes a free descent by cable car in bad weather. If the fee is not paid, the descent must be paid separately.
The Chäserugg is a challenging but rewarding flying area, offering unique views of Säntis, the Alpstein range, and the Walensee.
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