Parapente Indian Valley_Keddie Peak_Burn Launch_Greenville, CA

Indian Valley, USA Overview Indian Valley offers stunning views with landmarks like Mt. Lassen and Lake Almanor. Pilots can reach altitudes of up to 15,000 feet. The area is known for its rugged terrain and high mountain lakes, which may still have ice. The valley provides numerous landing zones, making it ideal for cross-country (XC) flights, including triangles and out-and-returns. History The primary launch site used to be Keddie, a narrow cliff launch. However, after discovering new launch sites, Keddie is less frequently used. The current main launch, known as "The Burn," was created after a fire several years ago, resulting in a flat slope launch. Geography/Meteorology The launch site is at a high altitude with rugged terrain and plenty of back roads to explore. Conditions can vary from windy to light, with smoother conditions later in the afternoon. Convergence can sometimes make it difficult to descend, and sunset occurs quickly. Launching The main launch, "The Burn," is a flat slope launch at about 6,200 feet. It requires a long run, especially in windy conditions. There are two other launches nearby: "Good Launch," which faces WSW and is less affected by midday winds, and "Goldilocks Launch," a short ramp requiring south winds. Other launches in the valley include Keddie, Mt. Hough, and Hard Rock, with the latter two being early morning sites. Landing Zones The primary bailout landing zone is Tweeten’s, now owned by a youth camp. It is essential to familiarize yourself with the area, including fence lines and streamers. The valley floor generally serves as a large landing zone, but avoid fields with cows and always close gates. Mr. Ed’s field and the schoolyard are other notable landing zones, with specific rules to follow. Getting There Indian Valley is unregulated but recommended for strong Hang III pilots. It is located between Greenville, Crescent Mills, and Taylorsville off Hwy 89. The main route is through Oroville on Hwy 70 to Hwy 89, passing through the Feather River canyon. Another route is from I-5 to Hwy 36 to Chester. Accommodations Camping is primitive, with the main site at Round Valley Reservoir closed. Greenville campground offers basic amenities for $8.00, while Taylorville campground, 7 miles away, has pay showers for $10.00. Additional campgrounds are available near Lake Almanor, about 20-30 minutes from Greenville. Clubs/Owners/Manager Local pilots live in town off Hwy 89 and can provide valuable advice. Coordinates Burn Launch: 40.19466447, -120.9229073 School House: 40.14174197, -120.9455957 Tweeten LZ: 40.16967156, -120.9344756 For more information, visit: - [Bay Area Hang Gliding Club](http://www.bhgc.org/sites/#site_indian-valley-ca) - [Indian Valley on Hang Gliding Wiki](https://www.hanggliding.org/wiki/Indian_Valley)