Description
Mountain Ridge and Thermal Site. This site is NOT managed by the Arctic Air Walkers, and this Site Guide is provided to assist pilots in making good decisions about flying at this site.
Sunburst is one of the many ridges along the east side of the road over Turnagain pass. The hike is brutal but worth it when the soaring is good. The trail to the summit alternates between crappy and non-existent but once you get above the brush line it really doesn't matter too much just head for the top of the ridge. Launch anywhere you can find a good place to layout your wing. Land at any of the many fields along the highway.
Landing Zones
Magnum
60.756616, -149.204567
This site is NOT managed by the Arctic Air Walkers, but is included here for informational purposes only. Flying at this site is entirely at the pilot’s risk. There are many remote mountain hike-n-fly sites in the Anchorage area and other areas of Alaska. Since these sites are typically in State or National Forest Service Land, there are no man-made hazards. The precise launch and landing areas are typically undefined since these sites are above tree line and there are often numerous locations on the mountain where pilots can set up and launch. This site is not suitable for P2 pilots, and pilots are encouraged to seek out pilots who are experienced with flying at this site in order to fly here.
Magnum is the ridge just south of Sunburst. Take the trail described on the Sunburst page until you break out of the brush then cross a small gully and head up the ridge to a wide plateau that's perfect for launching down the ridge or off either side.
Weather Considerations
Pilots need to keep a careful watch on weather conditions, both on launch and in the air.
Ideal winds are from NW, W, SW 5 to 10 mph. Winds can be about 15 degrees to either side of that direction, or you can move to a different area to launch that faces more into the wind.
This site has only been flown a couple of times so there's really not much of a knowledge base but it's probably best in light winds and sun with the prevailing in any direction that doesn't have an east component.
Requirements
This is a remote mountain site with significant terrain features; it's probably best if you know what you are doing.
Pilots are expected to evaluate the launch, the possible landing areas, the weather, and other conditions. Flights are at the Pilot's own risk.
P3 is the recommended pilot level, and it may not be suitable for P2 pilots. This site is not managed by the Arctic Air Walkers and there are no specific requirements to fly here aside from strong launching skills and good judgment. Pilots should have P3 skills, but because it is a remote site, with greater consequences for messing up, pilots should follow the USHPA recommended operating limitations for P2 pilots, which are:
- Maximum base wind of 12 mph.
- Maximum peak gusts to 15 mph.
- Maximum gust rate of 5 mph in 5 seconds
- Should not fly in thermal lift where peak climb rates exceed 200 fpm.
- Launch from slopes steeper than 4:1 with the wind within 25 degrees of being straight up the slope.
Hazards
Other hikers/spectators/berry pickers may occasionally visit this site and the potential for a conflict exists. Pilots are cautioned to ensure an appropriate distance is maintained between launch and landing activities and the public. Pilots are expected communicate to the public as needed to maintain clearances.
This is a natural mountain site and there are many natural hazards that are common to many natural mountain sites in Alaska that could be a hazard for pilots.
There may be no cell phone reception in many backcountry areas. Pilots are expected to be prepared for self-rescue and by carrying Spot, InReach or other non-cell based communication equipment.
- The hike itself is a significant hazard. Wear pants until you get above the brush and boots are recommended.
- No cell phone service.
- Be aware that strong valley winds can build quickly in this area.
- There is no established launch area. Twigs and rocks are everywhere. Make sure your lines are cleared before you launch.
- Watch out for mechanical turbulence along the ridges and other terrain features.
WARNING: The descriptions of typical flying conditions listed in this Site Guide reflect the experience of the authors of the guide. The conditions that you encounter at the site may differ, sometimes substantially, from those described. These descriptions may not be relevant to the possible experience of any other pilot, particularly one who is relatively inexperienced or new to the Site.