Staetzerhorn

Staetzerhorn is a high mountain launch at around 2,570 metres in Graubünden, Switzerland, with a southwest-facing takeoff. Getting there involves a chairlift from Churwalden up to Alp Stätz, followed by roughly an hour's walk to the summit — a proper approach rather than a roadside launch. That mix of lift-assisted access and a real hike makes it a site for pilots prepared to put in some effort before they even clip in. The launch only works with wind from the southwest, so timing a visit around the right forecast matters more here than at sites with a wider window. As with mountain flying elsewhere in Graubünden, Switzerland's airspace structure is more layered than it looks at first glance, so checking current restrictions before heading up is worth doing properly rather than assuming the sky above is clear. Between the altitude, the approach effort and the single flyable direction, Staetzerhorn rewards pilots who plan the day around the conditions rather than showing up and hoping.

Launch & conditions

Southwest-facing launch at ~2,570 m — flyable only with wind from SW.

Getting there & local rules

Chairlift from Churwalden to Alp Stätz, then about a 1-hour walk to the summit.

Local rules & hazards

Switzerland's airspace is more layered than it looks — confirm current restrictions before flying here.

Check conditions before you fly

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