Paragliding Mt Ascutney South, VT

Mount Ascutney in Windsor, VT offers a unique paragliding experience with a cliff launch. The site is occasionally used and is suitable for hike & fly, thermal soaring, and some cross-country flights. The launch elevation is 2675 feet (815 meters) with a height difference of 525 meters. The site has two launch directions: NW and S. The NW launch requires an H3 rating or above, while the S launch requires an H4/P4 rating or above, along with a windy cliff endorsement. The ideal wind directions are from the south, with light to moderate southeast through southwest winds also being acceptable. The wind speeds for hang gliding range from a minimum of 8 mph to a maximum of 15 mph, with an ideal speed of 12 mph. For paragliding, the minimum wind speed is 8 mph, the ideal is 10 mph, and the maximum is 15 mph. The glide ratio is 4.7. The launch area is a naturalistic rock mound topped with soil, facing south. It is situated at the top center of a bowl that naturally funnels wind and thermals into the launch area. The hike to the launch is about half a mile and can be challenging with gear. From the summit parking lot, walk back down the road a short distance and take the first trail to the right (south). Continue along the trail until you reach a clearing and the launch site. There are some concerns to be aware of: - There is a small bailout landing zone (LZ) out front with some restrictions. Pilots should either get up and go cross-country or fly around to the northwest to land in the site's designated LZs, which are not visible from the launch. - Moderate to strong wind can produce "ramp suck." - Thermal turbulence can be unexpectedly strong at times. Since the launch is at the top of the bowl, any crossing wind will likely blow thermals across the launch, causing uneven forces on the glider during launch. - A wire crew is required on all but the calmest days. - Many hikers visit the scenic launch spot. Be courteous and watch out for spectators who might not know to duck at the appropriate time. Ask spectators to clear the rock and the area immediately below the launch before approaching with your glider. For more information, visit the [Soaring Road Trip page on Mount Ascutney](https://www.soaringroadtrip.com/mountascutney) and the [VHGA page on Mount Ascutney](https://vhga.aero/flying-sites/mount-ascutney/).