Parapente Sollie Smith

The site near Tillamook, USA, offers a paragliding experience with an elevation of 491 meters and a height difference of 480 meters. It is regularly used and known for its nice thermal soaring, although it offers limited cross-country (XC) opportunities. This is a drive-up site, and you can find more details below. Flights in this region have a site record of 35.5 km. For more information, you can visit the Cascade Paragliding Club's site guide or check the detailed document provided. Sollie Launch GPS coordinates are 45.4907, -123.7683 with an elevation of 1600 feet. Kilchis Launch GPS coordinates are 45.5007, -123.7837 with an elevation of 1950 feet. The common landing zone (LZ) GPS is 45.4746, -123.7710. The launch direction is SSW, and the wind conditions are best between SSE and WSW at 5-15 MPH. The rating for Sollie is H2/P2/M1, and for Kilchis, it is H3/P3/M2. Caution: The site can be unpredictable with N-NW winds, causing mechanical turbulence around the hillside. Fly only in very light winds on such days or be prepared for sudden landings. Strong wind days can blow you over the back, where there are only big trees for miles. Light NW winds with strong thermals can create convergence turbulence just above the launch. Description of Site: This drive-up site is located above Tillamook Valley in the Coast Range. The last 100 yards to the 1600' launch require high clearance. There are two launches: 1600' and 2000' AGL. The 1600' launch is ideal for paragliding, while the 1950' launch, called Kilchis, is slightly farther west. The prevailing wind should have a westerly component for a successful launch. This site is known for good thermal production, with some flights reaching 3000' over launch and lasting for hours. New pilots should fly with someone familiar with the site protocol. The launch is on public land, but the LZ is on private land south of Sollie Smith Road. New pilots must visit the LZ with an experienced pilot to understand which fields are suitable for landing and where to park cars. LZ Rules: - Park only in the designated pullout on the south side of Sollie Smith Road. - No landing, parking, or walking on the north side of the road. - Landing is permitted in the two east fields, avoiding fields with cows. The west field is also okay, but stay clear of cows. - No drinking alcohol or using drugs in the LZ or parking area while flying is in progress. - If there are more than 8 cars, park at the Sollie Smith Boat Ramp on Wilson River Road and pay the fee or use a shuttle. - Camping is not allowed in the LZ or parking area. Directions to Site: The Sollie Smith launch site is 10 minutes east of Tillamook. Turn north from Hwy 6 onto Wilson River Loop Road, cross the Wilson River, and turn right (east) on Sollie Smith Road. At the red barn, turn left (north) onto Aldercrest Road. Follow the main gravel road, taking a right at the first major intersection, and stay right at the next intersection. Continue to a viewpoint at 1200', but this is not a good launch site. Proceed to the next major intersection, take a sharp left, and go about 1/2 mile to a sharp left at an old rock quarry. This stretch of road requires high ground clearance and 4WD is suggested. Drive slowly and turn on your headlights. Site Protocol: The site is shared with hang glider pilots. Land in the correct LZ, which is on private property on a working dairy farm. Fences and power lines surround the main LZs. Always have someone point out the LZ to you rather than guessing. Additional Info: The site is very close to the Oceanside site. Beware of the 'Manure Shooter' machine in the LZ, which can ruin your day and equipment. Watch out for cows and avoid landing in fields with tall grass or recent manure spreading. Always close gates after passing and report any problems to the landowner immediately. For more information, visit the Cascade Paragliding Club's site guide or the detailed document provided.