Revised 2023
The launch has seen many improvements over the years. Although this launch has been made very user friendly, it still demands correct technique and control of ones wing. It is highly recommended that first time users and newer pilots try to hook up with pilots experienced with launching at Hat Creek Rim. PG's have been blown back, HG's have blown launches and pilots of both wing types have been caught to low over the back and failed to penetrate out.
HGs are particularly cautioned about launching in crosswinds especially south crosswinds. It is important to note the wind streamer beyond the launch run to the left. Do not attempt launching if this wind streamer is showing cross south. Patience will usually bring in a straight cycle.
Being confident of ones launch skills and having the appropriate help in higher winds is recommended. Pilots should have a H3/P3 rating to fly here. Hat Creek Rim can be a great site for H2/P2 pilots to build up hours, H2/P2 Pilots must have their instructor or mentor present while flying. Assisted windy cliff launch (AWCL) Turbulence (TUR) and Restricted landing field (RLF) skills are likely to be needed at Hat Creek.
Conditions : Wind velocity (mph) Wind Direction (degrees)
min ideal max gust ideal min max
HG 0 14 22 6 270 250 290
PG 0 7 18 5
Environmental conditions can change radically throughout the day. Flying midday through early afternoon in summer is only recommended for advanced pilots with XC skills, all the LZ's are thermal generators and can be very turbulent with quickly switching winds. There are no landings allowed in the green fields of the Hat Creek valley in front of launch.
Most summer pilots launch in the early evening for the famed Hat Creek glass off.
There is plenty of set up room for gliders and vehicles, and a Porta Pottie at launch, not much shade anymore.
A spectator viewing area with a bench and shade is available just off of parking lot. Please keep folks safe and request spectators view launches from there.
INFO:
Elevation 4500'
Ideal wind dir WSW to WNW
Glide to LZ 1 is 3:1
Glide to LZ 2 is 7:1