Woodrat Mountain

Woodrat Mountain, above the Applegate Valley south of Jacksonville, Oregon, is one of the classic Pacific Northwest cross-country sites. The 1,135 m launch works on N, SW, W and NW flow, with two well-maintained take-offs (main west and secondary north) large enough for simultaneous launches on the west. The site hosts the Starthistle Fly-In every Memorial Day weekend and the Applegate Open in early to mid-June — dates worth knowing if you plan a visit. Two designated landing zones serve pilots: Hunter LZ (Hunter Ranch) at 1,650 ft with a 4:1 glide from both launches, and Longsword LZ (Longsword Vineyard) at 1,460 ft with a 6:1 glide from top launch. Hunter Ranch owners have allowed gliders in their cow pasture for 30 years — respect their simple rules and only current RVHPA members are granted permission.

Launch & conditions

Main west launch is large, well-maintained gravel with a perfect grade, taking simultaneous launches. North launch is the secondary option. Take-offs are described as forgiving; the site's real challenge is the LZ, where convergent air from three valleys creates difficult landing conditions mid-day, mid-season.

Getting there & local rules

From Jacksonville, Oregon, drive south on Highway 238 approximately 4 miles, then turn left on Bishop Creek Road. Hunter LZ requires current RVHPA membership under the landowner agreement — no exceptions. Longsword LZ is the alternative when Hunter is not usable.

Local rules & hazards

This is a P3/H3 site with a signed waiver required — get a site intro before flying. Only current RVHPA members are granted permission to use the Hunter LZ. The main LZ can be dangerous mid-day, mid-season — convergent air from three valleys creates difficult landing conditions.

Check conditions before you fly

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