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Description
This site, located at an elevation of 1489 meters with a height difference of 745 meters, is rarely used and somewhat neglected. Recently, only short flights have been reported. There are few landing options, making it challenging for pilots.
The primary wind direction is from the West-Southwest. Launching from the South is possible but difficult due to an aging hang glider ramp. The Northwest launch is also challenging due to rocky terrain.
Before flying, it is crucial to contact Kootenay Paragliding Adventures: [Kootenay Paragliding Adventures](https://www.kootenayrockies.com/partner/kootenay-paragliding-adventures/). Additionally, you should contact them the evening before flying via [Kootenay Paragliding](http://KootenayParagliding.com).
For more information, you can reach out to the British Columbia Paragliding and Hang Gliding Association: [BCHPA Contact](http://www.bchpa.ca/contact-us.html).
**Takeoff:**
The South ramp is excellent for hang gliders but is aging and a bit rickety. The Northwest launch is difficult due to a rocky face. The setup area can accommodate about 10 gliders. The paragliding launch is on a bluff above the hang glider launch and is generally easy to launch from.
**Landing:**
The main landing field for both hang gliders and paragliders is difficult to approach and often turbulent. Good approach skills are necessary. The old landing zone is now closed as it has been replanted by the Forest Service. Paragliders may land downtown Ymir at the campground or beside the river, but only in zero wind conditions. Downtown Ymir can be turbulent and tricky if there is any wind. The hang glider landing zone is on the bench above a large replanted mill site on the north side of town on Porto-Rico-Ymir Road. The paragliding landing field is downtown across from Ymir Store and Hotel, but it is a tight field surrounded by power lines, trees, and a river.
**Access:**
Ymir is located on the road from Salmo to Nelson. From the Ymir Pub, turn left just past the village campground. Immediately after crossing the bridge, turn right on Oscar Bear Road. After 2.7 km, turn left. The road continues for another 2 km. Halfway in, take the right fork. The road is serious and dangerous, requiring a 4WD vehicle. It is best to go up with a local the first time to learn the danger spots.
**Comments:**
The site is in Class 'E' Airspace above 700 feet AGL following the land contour. The best gains in one thermal are around 9000 feet. This is the most consistent site in the area, with predictable soaring conditions and altitude gains of up to 7000 feet off launch being common. The area is surrounded by old gold mines visible from the air. There are several cross-country routes to Salmo and beyond (S-SE) and to Nelson (N), though the Nelson route is extremely committed with limited out-landings and long walkouts on locked logging roads.
For more details, visit [Paragliding365](http://www.paragliding365.com).
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