Paragliding Gemsstock

The Gemsstock paragliding site in Switzerland offers a challenging yet rewarding experience for advanced pilots. Located at an altitude of 2905 meters, it provides panoramic flights with multiple take-off options, all of which are demanding. The site is easily accessible from Andermatt via a cable car. From the Gurschneralp mid-station, you can reach one of the take-off points within 10 minutes. The take-off spots are over 600 meters higher, offering a particularly scenic flight back to Andermatt. The area is especially suitable for soaring in north winds, with thermals typically found on the sunlit slopes due to its northern exposure. Take-off points include: 1. Directly below the mountain station on the glacier towards the northeast. 2. West of the mountain station on the sunny slope, which is heavily trafficked. 3. From the summit towards the south, descending through the Alpthal back to Andermatt. In summer, you must soar up from Gurschen as the cable car does not take you to the top. In winter, you can take the gondola all the way up. The Gemsstock is well-known for its alpine flights in the heart of the Gotthard massif. In summer, the Schöllenen Gorge channels thermals against the north side of the mountain, while in winter, reliable dynamic updrafts are common. Even simple glide flights are a memorable experience here. The Gotthard massif is generally very demanding in summer, but the Gemsstock attracts flight schools in winter due to the significant altitude difference, making even simple, calm glide flights a great experience. Glide flights to Andermatt are a highlight, especially in thermal conditions. Andermatt serves as a waypoint or destination for long-distance flights, often flown from west to east or vice versa. There are no particular difficulties, but the altitude makes you vulnerable to weather changes. The Gemsstock is a Bise area, and with weak southwest winds, you can start with a tailwind towards the east. Skiers and snowboarders always have the right of way. Pay attention to the specific landing conditions in Andermatt, as there can be dangerous convergences. Strictly observe the wildlife protection areas; information is available from the cable car staff. Starting point: Flight to Vermigelhütte, possibly a hike to Maighelstal, and further flight to Graubünden, with Oberalpstock being an ambitious goal. Simple cross-country flights are possible with southwest winds towards Oberalp, with potential intermediate landings at Nätschen or Oberalp Pass, and further flights to Sedrun, Disentis, Ilanz, and Flims. Soaring conditions: Thermally active in summer; primarily dynamic soaring in winter. Take-off window: Orientation: NE, E, SE, S, SW, W, NW Difficulty: Easy Altitude: 2900 m Cable car: Yes Coordinates: 8.61159367, 46.60413219 Hiking time: 15 min From Andermatt, take the cable car to the Gemsstock mountain station. The take-off spots are on the glacier, ranging from flat to moderately steep. Eastern winds require take-off east of the cable car, while western winds require take-off west of the cable car. Descend the path (ski slope) from the mountain station until it widens and branches. The eastern take-off spot is immediately east of the branching point, below the fence, usually marked. For the western take-off spot, descend further along the western slope. In heavy snowfall, take-off can also occur above the eastern spot at the edge of the ski slope, though this is difficult due to the lee and flat terrain. This site is fog-free and highly recommended in winter with Bise winds, but wind strength at 3000m must be considered as the summit is exposed. Soaring for hours and topping the summit is no problem, and top landing is easily achievable. To assess wind direction, it is advisable to climb to the observation platform at the mountain station, which also offers a stunning view. For more information, visit [Gemsstock Paragliding](http://www.pdc-uri.ch/index.php/fluggebiete/gemsstock).