Updated 12.17.24
Parker Ridge offers up 30 miles of soarable terrain that is accessible with high-clearance 2wd. Parker is not flown very often as it is farther off the beaten path than our main sites, but during the right conditions it can offer up magical flying. Note, that while Parker is a ridge, it is often flown as a thermal-flying site.
Smooth laminar conditions can be found during morning flights, but caution should be taken after 10-11 a.m. as the valley floor becomes thermic and can make flying and landing very active. That smooth morning flying can quickly turn into an extremely turbulent thermic day, so plan flying activities accordingly.
While, smooth laminar conditions don’t typically exist in the evening, turbulent days can wind down to become smoother-lift evenings once the thermals begin to lose strength. Timing this is very tricky and requires experience. As a general rule, thermals tend to get mellower 2 hours before sunset, but never guaranteed. Note that lift may last until after dusk and strong descent techniques may be required.
High altitude general flying information can be found HERE.
Please only fly in conditions that are acceptable for your skill level.
Note the power lines that run along the valley. If there is any doubt you will not clear them to land at the LZ, land to the east.
Please be aware that this valley typically has extremely limited or no cell service. Pilots are highly encouraged to carry a GPS tracker in the event of an emergency.
Quick Info
- General Site Guidelines HERE
- High Altitude Launch at 8000 ft
- H3/P3/M2 Required
- Skills needed but not limited to high wind launching, high wind kiting, no wind launching, active piloting in turbulence, high altitude launching, high altitude landing, descent techniques, thermalling, and ridge soaring
- Wind Direction: Ideal 240-300, OK 225-315
- Wind Speeds: H2, Min 6, Ideal 12, Max 20, gusts to 5 P2, Min 2, Ideal 6, Max 12, gusts to 3 M2 Min 5, Ideal 8, Max 15, gusts to 3
- Min Glide Ratio, 3.5
- Membership in USHPA and CUASA. CUASA membership form HERE
Launch
Typical of high-desert launches, be vigilant to check lines for snags. Always check all lines are free of debris prior to launching.
The wind can be strong on Parker Ridge. High wind kiting skills may be necessary to launch.
Landing Zone
This is the Main LZ located on BLM land near the river. Be aware there is season cattle grazing in the area. Always land far enough away from livestock as to not disturb them.
This is the high desert. Exercise patience when landing if it is thermic and always active pilot your wing to the ground.
Here is an alternate LZ that is a little closer to launch. There are power lines that run parallel to the ridge in the optional landing zone. Stay well clear of the power lines. If you have any doubts about clearing the power lines, land short. There are good landing area on the East side of the power lines.
