Best Conditions
Description
Hull Mountain, located in the Mendocino National Forest, 25 miles northeast of Ukiah, California, and 7 miles northeast of Lake Pillsbury, offers a unique paragliding experience. The site features Timberline Launch at an elevation of 5800 feet MSL and Hull Peak at 6800 feet MSL, with the primary landing zone (LZ) at 1800 feet MSL.
Access to the launch sites requires a 45-minute drive up a rough dirt road, best navigated with a 4WD vehicle. Be cautious of motorcycles on this route. The Timberline Launch, facing SSW, provides an easy launch with a nice slope and a vertical drop of 4000 feet. Ideal wind conditions range from 0 to 15 mph, with 8 mph being optimal. The Rockpile Launch, also accessible, offers a similar vertical drop and is easier for newer pilots to reach the LZ.
The flying season typically spans from May through October, with snow potentially affecting early access. Northerly winds become more common in late fall. While no official ratings are required due to the public land status, it is recommended that unsupervised pilots be at least H3. Paragliders should ideally be P4 due to the long glide to any LZ.
Flying conditions can be challenging with typical mountain turbulence and variable winds. The site is known for good thermal flying, with common altitudes reaching 10,000 feet MSL and a record of 16,000 feet MSL. House thermals are located over the Peak, Lower Launch, Red Spot, and the House. XC flying is possible but difficult due to the surrounding terrain.
Landing is best done by the lake at 1800 feet MSL, where the wide, flat, grassy area provides consistent afternoon winds. Be cautious of driftwood and turbulence near the trees. Landing on the airstrip is not recommended due to aircraft use and potential turbulence.
Facilities in the area include developed campgrounds with amenities such as restrooms, picnic tables, and boat ramps, as well as undeveloped free camping options. The Pillsbury Resort offers cabins, groceries, and boat services. The Soda Creek store provides basic supplies and fuel.
For emergency services, use the Willits Repeater on 145.130 MHz with a CTCSS tone of 103.5. The Soda Creek Store can be contacted at 707-743-2148.
For more detailed information, visit [Sonoma Wings Hull Mountain Site Guide](http://sonomawings.com/site-guides/hull-mountain/).
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