Paragliding Dickey's Ridge Shenandoah NP, VA

Located in the Shenandoah National Park, this paragliding site offers a unique flying experience in the USA. The site is known for its soaring and thermalling conditions, making it suitable for some cross-country (XC) flights. However, flying here requires a P3/H3 rating with a Cliff Launch endorsement and a Special Use Permit from the National Park Service. The site is flyable year-round, but you must obtain a Shenandoah National Park Paragliding Permit, which needs to be renewed annually. For more information on permits, visit [CHGPA Permits and Waivers](https://chgpa.org/permitswaivers/). The launch area is a grassy, gentle slope with a 3-foot drop-off, facing southwest. The optimal wind directions for flying are between 225° and 270°. The vertical drop from launch to the landing zone (LZ) is 1400 feet, with a glide slope of 4:1. The LZ is a grass field surrounded by trees and slopes, so it's best to land in the middle of the field. The site is located in the northern part of Shenandoah National Park, near Front Royal, VA, about 80 miles from Washington, DC. The launch coordinates are N38°51'13", W78°12'24", and the LZ coordinates are N38°50'46", W78°13'25". Parking is limited, with space for 3-5 cars at the launch site and 2-3 cars near the LZ entrance gate. Important considerations include: - USHPA and CHGPA memberships are required. - A site introduction and LZ walk are mandatory for first-time pilots. - Avoid landing near animals and be cautious of the motor-powered gate at the LZ entrance. - No alcohol is allowed in the LZ. The launch area can be turbulent in southerly winds and tricky with a north crosswind. Pilots should be proficient in advanced launching techniques due to the cliff launch and surrounding tall trees. The site is also near the Linden VOR, a navigation point for aircraft, so be cautious of regional jet traffic, especially above 5000 feet. For weather updates and site information, visit [CHGPA Weather and Site Info](https://chgpa.org/weather-and-site-info/) and [NOAA Weather Forecast](https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=38.9182&lon=-78.1944&unit=0&lg=english&FcstType=graphical). For more detailed XC guidance and site-specific information, check out [Wilder Adventures](https://www.wilderadventures.com/launch/1183/dickeys-ridge-lake-frederick) and the [CHGPA Facebook Group](https://www.facebook.com/groups/chgpa/posts/10159035542609137/). Watch some flights from this site on YouTube: - [Video 1]( ) - [Video 2]( ) - [Video 3]( ) - [Video 4]( )