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
Pepper Peak is a great early season site for advanced pilots. It offers wicked strong thermals and challenging launch conditions but when it's on and you get clear of the terrain, the flying can be fantastic.
The hike can be challenging in the spring with deep snow along the main trail. People often diverge from the main trail and hike up the wind blown and more sun exposed ridge.
Land on the beach along Eklutna Lake near the trailhead.
Weather Considerations
This site is best when the prevailing winds are light with a west or south component.
Pilots need to keep a careful watch on weather conditions, both on launch and in the air.
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
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 thermals coming up the ridge below launch can be very strong. Launch early in the season and early in the day to avoid the strongest thermals. This site is not typically flown later in the season because of the strong conditions
Be aware of the level of Eklutna Lake before you head up the hill. At times of high water, the beach landing areas may not be possible!
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.