Parapente Glen Fruin

Auchengaich Hill is a lesser-known hike & fly site, so it's best to consult locals before planning your trip. The site is managed by the LLSC, with Mark Leyland as the site contact. Historically, it was once a Peel Park site. The launch altitude is 546 meters, with a height difference of 225 meters from top to bottom. The wind direction suitable for this site ranges from WNW to WSW. Note that the Strone and hills to the north lie within a danger area (D601), so always check up-to-date airspace data. Auchengaich Hill is located next to the A817 old military road. To get there, you can take the old road out of the east of Helensburgh or from the A82, turning left at the Arden roundabout onto the A818, then proceed straight ahead at the next junction onto a minor road for Helensburgh. Parking on the old military road is not recommended due to past issues with MPs. Instead, plan to park on the grass verge just west of Ballevoulin Farm, which is a short walk across one field to the bottom of the hill. Always consult the tenant farmer at Ballevoulin Farm if you have any doubts about bottom landing availability. For launching, paragliders should walk up onto the spur and then past the trees to find a suitable take-off spot. Hang gliders are not known to fly here. The site has great potential for cross-country flights, with some flights across Loch Lomond onto Ben Lomond already made. Top landing should be done with caution, avoiding getting too far back on the spineback. For bottom landing, choose obvious fields without animals or crops. Be aware of powerlines and the boundaries of the military danger area in front of the take-off. This site is very close to a major military base, so always check an air map before you go. The site may be closed during lambing in spring, so check with the club or local farmers before flying. For more information, visit [LLSC](https://www.llsclub.co.uk/index.php/glen-fruin) or contact the club directly at [LLSC Contact](http://www.llsclub.org.uk).