Greetings, and welcome to Hat Creek Rim! If you haven’t had an opportunity, please visit the link for the Site Guide and Site Rules for the specifics of the site. Hat Creek Rim is primarily a thermal, ridge soaring site that is well known for its widespread glass that occurs in the later parts of the evening. Although considered very suitable for P2’s/H2’s first mountain flight, it may also be considered an advanced site which requires technical skills due to terrain,valley influences, and topographical location. As such, it is a P3/H3 site with sponsorship requirements for P2/H2. *ALL pilots intending on flying HCR must be current USHPA members and join the HCPA prior to flight. Cell service is spotty so please do so before your trip.
HCR is easily accessible and located in some of the most recreationally diverse areas which is so appealing to visitors. If not flying, pilots and their families/friends may visit nearby Burney Falls, drop a line in the famous Hat Creek, explore the Subway Caves, or the stunning nearby Lassen Park. Hiking and mountain bike trails are abundant.
CAMPING: Site camping is permitted and encouraged! Preferred areas include LZ2, LZ1, and the parking lot located to the south of launch. All have 2WD access and HCPA provides port a potties on launch and LZ2. If you are towing a 5th wheel, it is advised to camp in LZ2 or at launch due to easier access. Dry camping conditions exist so please bring your own water and utilize facilities respectfully. For those who prefer more of a “glamping” situation, there is a nearby campground with full facilities and hookups. Motel options in nearby Burney.
When visiting this area, please practice consideration and respect for these lands. We are incredibly fortunate to have this access and we at the HCPA are proud stewards. Please educate yourself on all fire restriction currently in existence. Camp stove permits are required (and free!). Signs are posted in the LZ’s but restriction can and will change so know before you go. Be respectful of the lands and please feel free to utilize the picnic tables provided and maintained by the USFS and HCPA.
PLEASE reach out to a local prior to your first flight at the Rim. They have specific insight and are aware of site intricacies that we happily will share. The HCPA provides mentors and sponsors for those in need and are happy to coordinate and connect to give site intros. Please utilize the links provided on the website. Lastly, continued improvements are underway and we are very excited for them to slowly but surely be implemented. We hope your experience at Hat Creek Rim is incredible and the HCPA is devoted to ensuring your experience at Hat Creek Rim is incredible and that you have a safe and enjoyable flight.
BEST OF LIFT