DESCRIPTION

This is an intermediate-expert paragliding launch since cliffs are generally unforgiving and present unique wind currents. Fly with caution! That being said, it is below the top of the mountain so has less venturi than other options on Balberget. The XC potential of this site seems great with a south wind to help progress NorthWest along the a line of hills, or North into the flatlands. Other parts of the mountain may be better in SE winds the are best for flying inland along the range, but landing areas are more challenging in those places. Who will be the first to fly to Skellefteå or Luleå from here? The day will come!

ACTIVITIES

- paragliding
- flatland
- hanggliding
- hike
- soaring
- thermals
- xc

weather

Cliff launch means sharp wind gradient on launch with potential for stall and/or collapse. Beware of cross-winds. Landing area may be in the lee of low rolling hills in stronger south winds but not likely. Wave is also likely given rolling hills in front of launch, so beware of unusual gusts in the laminar of non-thermic days.

access

Hike up the front can be challenging. Public road goes only part way up the mountain. A gate blocks the road the rest of the way. apparently a military road and not even depicted on public maps (including google earth). Legend has it that the a key was given to the local soaring club that seems out of action these days. This site would be nice to launch from in the winter since the snow would smooth out the take-off area. It would, however, be difficult to access, requiring about a 3-4km snow-shoe through the forest along a shallower grade than the steep front.

regulation

Airspace is standard FL95 for this area, though Umeå TMA at FL20 is not far off to the East.