Description
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Pilot Recommendations
P3 skills recommended
In person site intro recommended, especially for pilots flying XC |
Weather Conditions Wind Direction: 180° - 260° PG: Min: 0mph / Ideal:5-8mph / Max:10mph / Gust:5mph
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Hazards This is a backcountry site that is flown infrequently. Pilots should only fly here if they are confident in judging conditions appropriate to their skill level Ideal launch conditions can vary greatly during time of year and time of day. Pilots are urged to watch conditions for a while before committing to launch Hazards can include, but are not limited to, water crossings, heinous bushwhacking, animal encounters, weather exposure, extreme terrain and difficult, complex navigation |
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Restrictions Do not land within 50' of other recreators |
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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.
The SW facing rocky slope of Little O'Malley seems to be a consistent thermal generator. Located ENE from the Glen Alps Trailhead, it rises about 1,000ft above the South Fork of Cambell Creek. Follow the well worn trail from Glen Alps parking lot across the creek and up to the ridge. There are numerous places to launch along the summit ridge.
This is primarily an XC departure site but if you sink out, land in one of the many meadows along the valley.
Launch
Landing Zones
Flattop Overlook
61.104752, -149.682711
The Overlook LZ is the obvious east-west ridge-top clearing to the north of the Glenn Alps parking lot, and also encopmasses the tundra field to the south and east of the ridge. This is a fantastic LZ that can be used in all wind directions. It is prominent enough that a landing can be setup from any side, with the most common being along the east end. It is imperative that you do not overfly the LZ, as there are no other options besides tree landings. There is plenty of space to land short of the apex of the ridge. This is a very common hiking area, and it is recommended to arrive with enough altitude to inspect the area and setup accordingly. Do not land within 50' of other users, there is plenty of area to allow for this.
It is a good idea to walk the LZ prior to landing here for the first time. There are several wood fences to avoid that can be difficult to spot from the air. If you are approcahing from the south with a strong north wind, be aware of the potential for rotor on final approach. If this is the case, landing in the flats to the east is a better option.
Flattop - Trailside
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The Flattop Trailside LZs consist of a series of clearings along the approach trail that you will hike past on your way to launch. The first clearing in just to the south of the parking area, right as you get above the trees. The hiking trail runs through the middle of it. It is oriented west east, with a slight slope to the east. this LZ option is surrounded by low alders and black spruce, making for a tangly but soft option if you overrun your landing. The next clearing is a little farther along, and is to the north of the trail. It is similar in size to the first, with a similar orientation and slope.
Following the trail along the north side of Blueberry Knoll, you will reach the next LZ option just below the beginning of the hill. This is oriented more north/south, but has plenty of space to the east as well. This is one of the larger LZ options, and is a great choice for pilots who might be making a second lap. If choosing to land here, be aware of any wind from the south or west, as you would be landing in the lee. A bit farther along the trail and more to the east is another large clearing. This is the final Trailside LZ option. This site does require a small walk back up to the trail, but is a great choice for pilots on speed/mini wings.