Oscar's (Deadman's) in British Columbia, Canada, is a well-regarded paragliding site known for its excellent thermalling conditions and potential for cross-country (XC) flights. The site is situated west of Savona, near Kamloops Lake, and offers a variety of flying experiences, including thermal, ridge, and wave flying.
The launch site is at an elevation of 1030 meters (3450 feet) above sea level, with a height difference of 576 meters (1890 feet) to the landing zone (LZ). The launch area is a rounded rocky bluff with a 60-foot rock cliff in front, requiring good launch skills, especially for paragliders. The launch direction is west, and the site is suitable for both hang gliders (HG) and paragliders (PG).
Access to the launch site requires a 4WD vehicle, particularly when the road is wet. The route involves several turns and forks, so it's essential to follow the directions carefully. Parking is available near the launch, but it's recommended to carry your glider to the launch site to protect the alpine meadows.
The primary landing zones include:
- The "747" LZ, a large sagebrush field near the training hill and Highway 1.
- The "Toilet Bowl," a smaller LZ below the launch, not recommended for novice pilots due to its limited size and encroaching subdivision.
- The "Crash Pad," an alternate LZ known for turbulent air from thermals.
- Top landing options for paragliders in meadows behind the launch and a clearing at the end of the ridge.
Flying conditions are generally best starting around noon, but good ridge soaring can occur earlier in the day. The site is famous for wave flights, and pilots should be cautious of wind switching at all LZs.
Class E controlled airspace begins at 2200 feet above ground level (AGL). Pilots should reset their altimeters to the accurate launch altitude before flying and contact Transport Canada Flight Services Station at 250-376-7941 before any XC flight near the Kamloops control zone.
Camping is not allowed at the "Crash Pad" due to fire risks, but nearby Steelhead Provincial Campground offers full-service sites. The site hosts reliable and consistent XC competitions, including events on Easter Weekend and the Longest Day of the Year.
For more information, you can contact the British Columbia Paragliding and Hang Gliding Association at [BCHPA Contact](http://www.bchpa.ca/contact-us.html) or visit [FlyBC](http://www.flybc.org/index.htm).
Watch videos of the site:
- [YouTube Video 1](
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)
- [YouTube Video 2](
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)
Join the community on Facebook: [West Coast Soaring Club](https://www.facebook.com/WestCoastSoaringClub/)
For detailed discussions and updates, visit the [FlyOK Forum](http://www.flyok.ca/phpbb3/viewtopic.php?f=12&t=121).
For more site details and images, check [Paragliding365](http://www.paragliding365.com).
