Little O'Malley

61.106364, -149.641193
Updated March 31, 2024

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.

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.

Landing Zones

Flattop Overlook

61.104752, -149.682711

Flattop LZ Image

 

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.

Weather Considerations

While it's possible to lauch in a light north wind, the thermals generally flow up the southwest faces which can result in turbulent mixing zones.  A very light soutwest breeze is the perferred wind conditions for lauching during thermic conditions.

Requirements

Pilots are expected to evaluate the launch, the possible landing areas, the weather, and other conditions.  Flights are at the Pilot's own risk. 

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

Little O'Malley can be a rowdy thermal site.  Minimize your risk and avoid scratching close to the ground and along rocky faces.  Lift is often generated within the groves of hemlocks further away from the slope.

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.


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.