Parapente Mara Lake Skyline , BC

Mara / Skyline Launch (Sicamous) is one of the most popular flying sites in British Columbia and a top spot for cross-country (XC) paragliding in Canada. The site is well-known for its excellent thermals and is a favorite for both novice and intermediate pilots. Flights typically start around 1-2 pm, with great evening glass-off conditions. The launch site is located at an elevation of 4400 feet above sea level, with a landing zone (LZ) at 1100 feet above sea level. The site is suitable for both paragliding (PG) and hang gliding (HG), and it is particularly famous for SIV (Simulated Incidents en Vol) and advanced maneuvers courses. Access to the launch site requires a 4WD vehicle due to a 17 km rough logging road. The road conditions can be challenging, especially in the spring when the ground is soft. Logging activities may also be active above the Mara Launch, so it's essential to stay alert and heed any "Active Logging" signs. The primary launch area was grass-seeded in June 2012, and pilots are encouraged to water the grass with any excess water. There is also a south launch, located 100 meters southwest of the main launch, which is best used in light northwest winds. A picnic table is available at the launch site, and camping is permitted, although tents should not be placed on the grass. For directions, from the Mara Store, drive 10.4 km up the Ashton-Mara East Skyline Road, then turn right onto Rogers Road for 3.7 km. Alternatively, from Sicamous, drive 10.2 km south or 4.0 km north of Crystal Sands Resort, turn east off Hwy 97 at the Fire Hall along Mara Lake at Davidson Drive, and then immediately turn right up Rogers Road. Follow the main road, turn right at the T-Junction, drive south for 1.1 km, and take the left turn. From there, it is 3.7 km to the launch site. The primary landing zone is located at the northwest end of Poirer Road, west of Highway 97A, north of the Mara Store. The air is typically very smooth, with minimal turbulence. Pilots are advised not to land at Crystal Beach or the turtle ecological reserve. Alternate landing zones include Mara Provincial Park (with prior permission), the southeast corner field on the south side of Riverside Road loop, and various fields along the south part of Riverside Road. For more information, visit the Freedom Flight School at [Freedom Flight Park](https://www.freedomflightschool.com/freedom-flight-park.html) or the local club at [Fly OK](http://www.flyok.ca). Please ensure you have HPAC insurance, as it is mandatory due to landowner requirements. Also, file your HAGAR before flying, as the airspace above 700 feet AGL is Class 'E'. For weather briefings and HAGAR notifications, contact FIC Advanced Weather Briefing at 1-866-WXBRIEF (1-866-992-7433). The local radio frequency is 123.400 MHz for aircraft and 173.640 MHz for local club communications. For more details on the site and regulations, visit the [British Columbia PG + HG Association](http://www.bchpa.ca/contact-us.html).