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Baldy is arguably the best flying site in the Anchorage area with abundant opportunities for cross country flights, a beautiful launch and a spacious LZ. It is primarily a thermal site with good days resulting in a cloud base of 7,000 feet or higher. The launch is situated directly above the town of Eagle River by the obvious radio tower. An easy 5 minute walk from the parking lot brings you to a glider friendly grassy knoll with room for several wings to layout at the same time.
Baldy is the launch site for the current state XC distance record originally set by Rick Ray on May 2nd, 2005 which was beat slightly by Jack Brown on May 6th, 2011 at 41.8 miles and then clobbered by Jack Brown on May 15th, 2012 at 68 miles. Typical cross country directions include south towards Flattop, North towards Palmer, and East towards the Eagle River Valley Nature Center. Pilots have recently been working northwest towards Willow with Josh Mulkey holding the current record in that direction making it to Pittman road north of Wasilla. Bailouts along most of these routes are limited so be sure to consult with a local XC pilot before embarking on an adventure.
The Primary LZ is Harry Mac. Landing there requires an annual payment to Eagle River Parks and Recreation who has been kind enough to provide a two acre grassy field for us to land in. The landing fee can be paid through this website.
- The launch slope is on the shallow side with alders at the base of launch which can make it a challenge for beginners in no-wind conditions.
- The area between launch and the highway is a high traffic zone for light aircraft heading in and out of Anchorage. Pay particular attention when below 2000 feet.
- Don't launch in a Southerly wind. Many pilots have made that mistake (some more than once) and it usually ends in a tree.
- About half way down on the left between launch and the LZ sits a large house who's owner has asked that we stay 500 feet away from his place. Please comply with this request.
Spring and Early summer are the best months for flying Baldy and it's during these months when the XC potential is the greatest. However good flights can be had at all times of the year. There is a wind talker located on the tower adjacent to launch. The number is 694-3017. The ideal direction is W to NNW with a winds speeds between 0 and 12 mph.
- Baldy is a P2 site though P3 skills are highly recommended.
- Strong launch skills and solid decision making is required.
- The shallow glide to the LZ means that a modern glider is a must.
- Local expectations are that all pilots carry a radio, cell phone, reserve, and fly with a helmet.
- You must get a site orientation prior to flying this site.
Site Contacts/Orientators
The members listed below are available to provide guidance to pilots that are new to the flying site.
| Name | Cell | |
|---|---|---|
| Matt Bonney | 907-952-0708 |
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| Brad Crozier | 907-441-7295 |
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| Bob French | 907-240-1744 |
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| Bill Ross | 907-441-5533 |
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