Skrzyczne

Skrzyczne is a mountain launch above the town of Szczyrk in southern Poland, reached by chairlift from the town center up to 1,245 m. There are three separate launch points near the top station, each suited to a different wind direction: one facing north to northeast just below the black ski run, a smaller east-facing spot beside it for easterly wind, and a north to northwest launch beside the red run. The north-northeast and east launches are wide, grassy and relatively flat, making the actual start straightforward; the north-northwest option needs more care, since a stronger westerly component can throw rotor off the nearby trees. Launching directly from the ski pistes is not allowed while the resort is open for skiing. The landing field is small and can't be seen from launch, so it's worth walking down to check it out before flying rather than discovering its size on final approach — there are backup fields nearby for anything unplanned, though not all are usable in every wind. The ridge also supports thermic and cross-country flying on good days.

Launch & conditions

Three launches near the chairlift top station: north-to-northeast below the black piste (easiest), a tighter east-facing spot for 2-3 wings, and north-to-northwest beside the red piste (watch for rotor off the trees in stronger west wind).

Getting there & local rules

Take the chairlift from the center of Szczyrk up to Skrzyczne — it runs to the top station right by the launches.

Local rules & hazards

Launching from the ski pistes is banned while the resort is running for the ski season. The landing field is small, hidden from view at launch and moderately challenging — not suited to hang gliders — so scout it on foot first; nearby backup fields exist for emergencies but aren't reachable in every wind.

Check conditions before you fly

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