Obermarsberg Schleppstrecke

Obermarsberg is a winch-tow site in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, at around 393 m, set up for flatland flying on the Calvarienberg rather than hill launching. Wind out of the northeast or southwest is what makes the tow line work. Because it's a winch site with its own landing field, it suits both club members towing independently and pilots working through early training under instruction, since the ground handling and landing here are gentler than a mountain approach. The site sits on level, open farmland typical of the region rather than dramatic terrain, which is exactly the point of a flatland winch setup: consistent, repeatable flying without depending on a ridge being in condition. As with any winch operation, this is a scheduled, club-coordinated site rather than a free-fly field, so visiting pilots should connect with the local club before turning up. The takeoff area sits within a protected nature reserve, which shapes how vehicles and ground activity are handled around the field.

Launch & conditions

Winch tow only, on the Calvarienberg — favorable wind is from the northeast or southwest.

Getting there & local rules

The takeoff area lies within the "Auf der Wiemecke" nature reserve, so vehicles are parked at the neighboring sports field rather than near the launch itself.

Local rules & hazards

The takeoff field sits inside a protected nature reserve, so vehicles must be parked at the neighboring sports field rather than at the launch area. Near the landing field there's a rail line and several beehives — keep a minimum distance of 50 m from both.

Check conditions before you fly

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