Walt s Point – Horseshoe (Owens Valley – Lone Pine – Bishop)

Walt's Point (also known as Horseshoe) is a legendary Owens Valley launch that was the departure point for many world-record flights years ago. Great morning site with a paved-road drive-up — launch is directly off a pull-off. A cakewalk launch for hang gliders; a flat slope with a cliff drop for paragliders, which makes it advanced-pilots-only for PG. Make sure the wind is NOT out of the west before you fly — it's no fun flying the Sierras with wind over the back.

Launch & conditions

Launch known as Walt's Point or Horseshoe. Cakewalk for hang gliders; PG launch is a flat slope ending in a cliff — advanced pilots only for PG. Launch technique for PG: lay out across takeoff with the right wingtip right at the edge, then bring up the right side first. After takeoff, turn right towards the small saddle (do NOT fly across it) — thermals are usually right there.

Getting there & local rules

From Bishop: 1 hour to Lone Pine, then 1 hour up on a paved 2WD road. Landings: a few pull-offs along the road up work, but if you're XC you could end up landing anywhere. Avoid fields with cows — they can be very curious and even aggressive.

Local rules & hazards

Advanced pilots only for PG. Do NOT fly if wind is out of the west — flying the Sierras with wind over the back is dangerous. Max altitude 17,999 ft. Thermals can be VERY strong — PGs typically don't fly here from June through early September.

Check conditions before you fly

A forecast for the valley is not a forecast for the launch. Before heading to Walt s Point – Horseshoe (Owens Valley – Lone Pine – Bishop), 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 Walt s Point – Horseshoe (Owens Valley – Lone Pine – Bishop) with a 7-day forecast built from high-resolution weather models, see who else has been flying, and get there with offline maps.