Paragliding Lake Elsinore_E , CA

Lake Elsinore, located in California, USA, is a popular paragliding site known for its thermal and convergence flying. The site offers two main launches: Edwards and the 'E'. The 'E' launch, situated at an altitude of 2900' MSL, is the primary launch for normal conditions. It works best with east to southeast winds but can be dangerous with any north component due to rotor effects. The launch area is a steep slope, and pilots need to be cautious of the 'Tuck Zone' on the south side of the spine, especially when the wind has a north component. The 'E' launch is named after the 'E cone' in front of the launch, which has a white letter 'E' on its far side. Edwards launch, at 2840' MSL, is used in north winds and by lower-rated pilots for morning training flights. It offers a 5:1 glide ratio and is better suited for hang gliders. This launch is also a steep slope and works well in east to northeast winds. Lake Elsinore is renowned for its convergence line, which sets up across the valley to Soboba. This occurs when the west wind pushes through, wraps around the mountains from the north and south, and meets in the middle in front of the launch. This convergence can create impressive altitudes, often reaching 10,000' or higher. The best time to launch is before noon when the east wind is blowing in, and pilots can hang out up high until the west wind pushes through and the convergence sets up. The site is unregulated but has a few unwritten rules. The main meet location is just off the 74 on Grand Ave. The main launches are in the National Forest, so a National Forest Pass is required for parking. The main landing zone (LZ) is privately owned and has been under scrutiny, so pilots should be discreet when landing there. Lake Elsinore is not a beginner site due to its strong thermals and complex terrain. It is advised to avoid flying in gusty or strong Santa Ana conditions, which can be violently unpredictable. The site offers great cross-country (XC) potential, with a site record of over 100 miles. For more information, you can visit: - [Wilder Adventures](https://www.wilderadventures.com/launch/824/lake-elsinore) - [SoCal XC League](https://www.socalxcleague.com/sites/elsinore) - [SDHGPA](https://www.sdhgpa.com/elsinore.html) - [Allen Thoe's Elsinore Page](https://allenthoe.github.io/Elsinore.html) - [Jerome Daoust's Elsinore Page](http://www.expandingknowledge.com/Jerome/PG/Site/Elsinore/Main.htm) For a visual overview, check out this [YouTube video]( ).