Parapente -HG Whetstone Mountains, AZ

The Whetstone Mountains, located east of Sonoita, offer a year-round hang gliding experience on the southern face of the range. This rugged, dry fault-block mountain range spans about 15 miles, featuring open oak-juniper woodlands on the upper slopes and scrub-grasslands on the lower slopes. Access to the Whetstone Mountains is limited to a few unimproved four-wheel drive routes that reach some of the lower canyons. There are no roads to higher elevations, but a single hiking trail from Kartchner Caverns State Park leads into the heart of the range. To fly at this site, you need current SAHGA (or AZHPA) and USHPA memberships, an H4 rating, and a local guide if you are new to the site. The launch is a flat-slope best flown in strong southwest conditions, with wind speeds between 15-20 mph and a gust limit of 5 mph. The ideal wind direction is between 220°-230°, with acceptable conditions ranging from 210°-240°. The site is suitable for hang gliding only and requires a hike of 160 feet vertical over 0.25 miles to reach the launch. The primary landing zone (LZ) is adjacent to a ravine, with a shallow-slope launch 360 feet above the LZ. The launch elevation is 5,940 feet, with coordinates at 31.768147, -110.458351, and is oriented southwest. The designated LZ elevation is 5,580 feet, with coordinates at 31.766913, -110.463522. The LZ is restricted and bordered by a ravine on the east. Flying in this area involves controlled and restricted airspace to the south. It is a high-desert site with excellent cross-country potential in all directions. Without sustaining lift, it is best to head directly to the LZ after launching. For more information, visit: [SAHGA](http://www.sahga.com/) and [Whetstone Mountains Guide](https://www.sahga.com/flying-sites/whetstone-mountains-guide).