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 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 the road. The Timberline Launch, facing SSW, is the main launch site with a 4000-foot vertical drop. Ideal wind conditions range from 0 to 15 mph, with 8 mph being optimal. The Rockpile Launch and Turn-in-the-road Launch offer additional options, each with specific wind requirements and challenges.
The flying season typically runs from May through October, with snow potentially limiting access early in the season. Northerly winds become more common in late fall. Pilots should be at least H3 rated, with P4 recommended for paragliders due to the long glide to any LZ. Hull Mountain is not suitable for initial high flights.
Flying conditions can be turbulent with strong headwinds, especially near the Eel River Valley and Lake Pillsbury. Thermal flying is common, with house thermals over the Peak, Lower Launch, Red Spot, and the House. Cross-country (XC) flying is possible but challenging due to the surrounding mountain terrain.
Landing is best done by the lake, 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 include developed campgrounds with amenities such as restrooms, picnic tables, and boat ramps, as well as undeveloped campgrounds. The Pillsbury Resort offers cabins, groceries, and boat services. The Soda Creek store provides basic supplies and gas.
For emergencies, use the Willits Repeater (145.130, offset -600kHz, CTCSS tone 103.5) and key 911 for emergency services. The Soda Creek Store can be reached at 707-743-2148.
For more detailed information, visit [Sonoma Wings Hull Mountain Site Guide](http://sonomawings.com/site-guides/hull-mountain/).
Popularity: 18 Views
