Paragliding Pisgah Peak, CA

Pisgah Paragliding Site Elevation: 1666 meters Height Difference: Approximately 340 meters Coordinates are approximate, and no flight logs have been found for this site. For site introduction, please contact Allen Thoe at 510-388-6653. There are no USHPA requirements, but it is recommended for advanced or intermediate pilots with spot landing skills. Wind Direction: South is preferred. Southwest is typical, but on days when it's blowing East through the Banning Pass and West from the shore, they converge right at launch, making it an excellent place to fly. During Santa Ana conditions, this site can still be flyable as it is in the eddy of Mount San Gorgonio, shielding it from the prevailing northern winds. Getting to Launch: You can hike the trail or drive with locals. There are two gates to pass; one is almost always open, while the other requires a key that only local pilots have. Launch Options: There is only one launch spot, which faces South-Southwest. It is a small clearing at the very top of the hill, making it easy for both paragliding and hang gliding pilots. There are streamers but no wind socks. Landing Zone (LZ): The LZ runs slightly downhill across the road. Be aware of considerable hazards, including power lines adjacent to the road and the building for the park facilities. Bailout Options: If you are not going to make it to the power lines, you can use the bailouts by the dirt road, which is on private property. Ensure you pack up and leave the area clean. If heading towards Crafton Hills, there is a golf course in Cherry Valley (directly west from launch) that can be reached on glide if you are unable to cross the valley. House Thermals: If you don't catch the thermal on launch, proceed down the spine (along the dirt road) where the fork is, and you will likely find a significant thermal here. If that's not working, the day is probably a bust, and you should head to the LZ, which is reachable from launch with no lift. Rotors: If you sink at launch, you will find yourself behind the hill where the fork in the road is. You will likely encounter major sink and turbulence there. Head down away from the hill and land by the building at the bottom. This is why spot landing skills are required to fly this site. For more information, visit [Pisgah Paragliding Site](https://allenthoe.github.io/Pisgha.html).