GSS sites are sensitive: These sites have taken years of effort to acquire and require compliance with all procedures. Please read site protocols BEFORE going to the site and always get a site briefing from a Local Pilot. If you have questions, contact the site manager.
Caution: High Altitude Thermic Site
All GSS sites have very powerful sharp thermals in the middle of the day, requiring very advanced big air active flying skills to fly safely. If you don’t have big air mountain experience, only fly GSS sites early in the morning and at the end of the day, when conditions are calming down.
Also, if you don’t know EXACTLY what “big air” means, then you DEFINITELY don’t have big air experience. If you are a low time pilot and are not sure which sites and conditions are appropriate, consult with your instructor. Advice on social media such as Telegram or YouTube is a poor substitute for proper instruction.
A decision to launch is always that of the individual pilot. When deciding whether or not to fly, a pilot may wish to take into account the descriptions in this site guide but must also consider numerous other factors including the pilot's training and experience, familiarity with the site, equipment, physical and mental condition and the specific weather conditions in existence at the time of the decision along with what the conditions may change to.
Always fly within the USHPA recommended operating limitations for your rating as specified in the USHPA Pilot Proficiency System. Pilots of relatively little experience or who are new to the site are urged to consult with other local pilots at the site in order to obtain their assessment of the conditions. Always get a site briefing from a local pilot. Do not fly sites alone or without a local pilot present. If locals are not flying, there is likely a reason.
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 encountered by the authors. The descriptions of their experiences may not be relevant to the likely experience of any other pilot, particularly one who is relatively inexperienced or new to the site.
- Red Mountain Launch
- Lookout Mountain Launch
- LZ for Both Launches