Haeckel Hill

Haeckel Hill overlooks Whitehorse in the Yukon — an easy-to-reach launch (the access road is rough but works for most vehicles at slow speeds) with three practical takeoffs and one advanced west launch that requires stable wind or you'll sink out before the LZ. The wind turbines on top are actually helpful: when they're spinning you can read wind direction at a glance. Don't fly here without talking to a local pilot first, and every flight requires prior contact with Whitehorse tower. If you start sinking out, head directly to the LZ — there are two switchbacks usable as emergency landings if you're comfortable spot-landing. Pilots have waited too long and ended up in the trees.

Launch & conditions

1) South-east (Intermediate). 2) South (Beginner) — in front of the main windmill, lots of room; watch for snaggy bushes. 3) West (Advanced) — a short hike, and only reliable with stable wind or you may sink out before the LZ. 4) North possible but not practical — tricky, rocky, only soarable in perfect conditions; huge LZ but a long hike back up (ATV trail is long and technical).

Getting there & local rules

On the northern outskirts of Whitehorse, turn left on Fish Lake Road; right at the bird lookout or Icy Waters fish farm — the road gets rough here. Follow the dirt road to the top parking; the two primary launches are a 5-minute walk, the west launch about 15. At the LZ, check for flagging — wind direction can shift at landing. Landing: primary south LZ is a moderate field with good approaches from either side; a windsock should be there but may need to be put back up. In spring/summer bring bug spray — the black flies at the LZ can be brutal.

Local rules & hazards

Site is in restricted airspace — pilots must hold the HAGAR rating and contact Whitehorse Tower before launch. Do not fly here without talking to a local pilot first. Windmills, power lines and air traffic are all real hazards to plan around.

Check conditions before you fly

A forecast for the valley is not a forecast for the launch. Before heading to Haeckel Hill, read the wind and thermals for the site itself, confirm the day's rules with the local club, and remember the standing rule — when in doubt, don't launch. In the free OutDare app you can open Haeckel Hill with a 7-day forecast built from high-resolution weather models, see who else has been flying, and get there with offline maps.