Rauschberg

Rauschberg is a well-regarded cross-country launch above Ruhpolding in Upper Bavaria, Germany, reaching about 1,650 m. The site is currently hike-and-fly only — the cable car isn't running as of 2026 — so getting to launch means walking up. Three separate takeoffs cover different wind directions: a ramp at the north launch suitable for both paragliders and hang gliders, a natural west-facing launch for both types, and a southeast natural launch for paragliders only, giving a usable window across N, NW and W. Down in the valley, pilots land at Grashof, where two adjoining fields are used depending on conditions and time of year. Guest pilots are expected to familiarize themselves with local particulars before flying, and any training activity has to be coordinated with the site's operator. It's a serious mountain launch with real cross-country potential, best suited to pilots comfortable hiking to altitude and reading a valley they don't already know.

Launch & conditions

Three launches cover the mountain: a ramp at the north site for paragliders and hang gliders, a natural west-facing takeoff for both, and a southeast natural launch for paragliders only.

Getting there & local rules

Hike-and-fly only — the funicular isn't running as of 2026, so reaching launch means walking up.

Local rules & hazards

The Grashof Ost landing field closes to landings each year from 1 April to 15 June while new vegetation establishes, and both Grashof fields require a 50 m safety margin from the road plus care around golf-course activity and gliders landing from the Unternberg launch above. Parking is not allowed in the protected water-catchment area. Inspect either field in person before your first landing there.

Check conditions before you fly

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