Moarbichl Hochgern

Moarbichl is a launch on the Hochgern massif in the Chiemgau Alps, at about 1,597 m facing southwest, with roughly 1,035 m of height difference down to the valley and two possible landing fields — Balsberg in the municipality of Unterwössen and Wessner Hof in Marquartstein. The site sits beside sensitive grouse habitat to the east and southeast, so launches are only allowed from the one approved launch area, and pilots overfly the marked grouse zone at a minimum of 300 m AGL rather than crossing it low. Flying is banned outright during the breeding season, 1 April to 31 July each year, and even outside that window launches are limited to between one hour after sunrise and one hour before sunset — no dusk or dawn flights. If a pilot doesn't gain height right after launching, the rule is to follow the marked flight corridor toward the Hochgernhaus and on to the landing fields rather than search for lift over the habitat. Access to the launch is on foot only from the valley; driving up is not permitted. Guest pilots need the operating club's consent before flying, and everyone shares the alpine pasture with grazing cattle, so a respectful distance matters. Pilots should also expect a briefing on glider and motor-glider traffic approaching and departing the nearby Unterwössen airfield.

Local rules & hazards

Launches happen only from the one approved launch area — the surrounding zone to the east and southeast is sensitive grouse habitat, overflown at a minimum of 300 m AGL rather than crossed low. Flying is banned outright from 1 April to 31 July for the breeding season, and even outside that window launches are limited to between one hour after sunrise and one hour before sunset. If no height is gained right after launch, pilots follow the marked flight corridor toward the Hochgernhaus and the landing fields. Access is on foot only, guest pilots need the club's consent to fly, and pilots should expect a briefing on glider traffic approaching and departing the nearby Unterwössen airfield.

Check conditions before you fly

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