Parapente Minto Hills

Minto Hills is a local soaring site ideal for walk & fly activities, best suited for NW wind directions. Site Status: Open Location Info: - Grid Reference: NT 558206 - Latitude: 55.47790 - Longitude: -2.70000 Wind: - Suitable Directions: E, SE, S, SW, W, NW - Optimal Direction: NW Height: - Above Sea Level: 907ft (276m) Road Access: Approach via the A698 from Kelso to Hawick, then take the B46405 towards Minto village. The Minto Hills are the prominent twin hills to the NE of the village. Parking: - For SE wind directions: Park near NT 563207 by Minto golf course. - For SW to NE wind directions: Park near NT 555201. Take-Off: Take off from any suitable spot on the larger of the two hills, depending on wind direction. Landing: - For SE or S wind directions: Land at NT 562202 in the obvious fields at the base of the hill towards Minto village. - For SW wind directions: Land at NT 553206 in the obvious field on the SW side of the hill facing Hawick. Flying: Originally a training hill and site for hang-gliding competitions in the '80s, Minto Hills is now rarely flown but remains an excellent site for variable wind conditions. Open in all directions, cross-country flights are possible, particularly from the steeper NE side down the Teviot Valley and along the northern edge of the Cheviots towards Yetholm and Wooler. Hazards: - Check NOTAM and CANP if flying mid-week due to military low-flying exercises. - Beware of rotor in strong conditions and when flying close to the hill, especially on the NE edge. - Be cautious of pedigree bulls in the landing fields. Notes: - Avoid landing in fields with livestock. - The hill is used for livestock grazing; seek permission from the landowner (Deanfoot Farm) before flying. - Use gates to access the hill and avoid climbing over fences and walls. For more information, visit: [Wingbeat Paragliding - Minto Hills](http://www.wingbeat-paragliding.co.uk/index.php/sites/minto-hills)