Baldern (Uetliberg)

Baldern (Uetliberg) is a compact ridge-soaring site above Zürich, at about 733 m, flyable only in an easterly Bise wind of roughly 15–25 km/h — this is a Bise-specific site, not one to try in any other wind. The launch itself is a small clearing on the ridge, just wide enough for one paraglider at a time, so expect to take turns. Airspace here is layered and worth knowing before you fly: the normal ceiling is 1,700 m ASL, rising to 2,300 m (radio required) only when Zurich Airport specifically opens that airspace to paragliders, and there's a separate area to the north and northwest where controlled airspace starts as low as 1,350 m ASL — check the full airspace picture before flying that side. Watch for turbulence between the tall trees right after launch, especially with any northerly wind component. The main landing field sits just below take-off, marked by a windsock, with an alternative near Sihlcity if needed; a landing fee is paid to the farmer who owns the field. If the wind is too strong here, the Oberrieden launch nearby can be an alternative.

Launch & conditions

A small clearing on the ridge, just wide enough for one paraglider — flyable only in an easterly Bise wind of roughly 15–25 km/h. Watch for turbulence between the tall trees right after launch, especially with any northerly wind component.

Getting there & local rules

A landing fee is paid to the farmer at the landing field. If the Bise is too strong here, the nearby Oberrieden launch can be an alternative.

Local rules & hazards

The normal ceiling is 1,700 m ASL, rising to 2,300 m only when Zurich Airport specifically opens that airspace to paragliders, and a radio is required when it does. A separate area to the north and northwest has controlled airspace starting as low as 1,350 m ASL — check the full picture before flying there.

Check conditions before you fly

A forecast for the valley is not a forecast for the launch. Before heading to Baldern (Uetliberg), 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 Baldern (Uetliberg) with a 7-day forecast built from high-resolution weather models, see who else has been flying, and get there with offline maps.