jackson hole mountain resort

JHMR is a high-altitude, lee-side mountain thermal site that is not to be taken casually despite the convenience of lift-serviced access. This site can get busy on flyable summer days with one of the busiest tandem operations in the country launching alongside solo and visiting pilots. With high-altitude launches at 9000' and 10,450', expect faster ground speed and turbulence in this thin, dry mountain air- especially when you launch and land. Mornings often exhibit strong inversions with calm conditions here in the sheltered lee of the Tetons. Prevailing wind typically comes in from the WSW, the backside of the mountain. Remain alert to changing conditions, which can build rapidly upon reaching the high peaks. Don't get caught off guard as clouds build and stronger winds mix down into the inversion throughout the day!

JHMR has three launch options, all with room for multiple gliders to lay out. From all launches, pilots must be aware of and avoid lift infrastructure and trees. Please maintain a minimum of 500' clearance of all infrastructure and ski runs at all times. The landing zone is large, conducive to a D-B-F approach. The impressive vertical gain and steep nature of the resort makes for excellent morning sled rides with generous clearance from the scenic terrain below. On the rare stellar summer day, a skilled XC pilot might be able to thermal out and fly to the Grand Teton from here!

This sensitive site is a privilege to fly: there are lots of eyes on us as free flight pilots, and our access could be revoked if JHMR decides we are a liability. Please CONTACT A CLUB OFFICER for information and to arrange a site intro. JHMR is a site that requires current USHPA and JHFFC memberships and requires a P4/H4 rating as of June 26th, 2023. Speedwings and mini-wings are not permitted at this site.

Updated 6/27/2023

Find JHMR ticketing information HERE.

LAUNCH DETAILS

Rendezvous Bowl Launch: Elevation 10,300’. South-facing open talus field. P4/H4. Mind your footing on the loose talus. Please avoid damaging the delicate high-alpine vegetation growing here- it's a tough place to make a living. Minimum glide ratio: 3.2.
Rendezvous Summit Launch: Elevation 10,450’. West-facing side of Rendezvous Mountain. P4/H4 required for this launch, from which the LZ is not visible. Flying the Summit Launch requires flying around through “the seed,” where air accelerates as it funnels through a col and can become surprisingly turbulent. P4/H4. Minimum glide ratio: 3.2.
Gondola Launch: Elevation 9000'. Short walk down the slope from top terminal of Bridger Gondola. Moderate grassy slope with good footing. Trees line the north side of launch, with a rocky cliff band (the "Granny Chutes") below and to the south. These rocks heat up and generate thermic bubbles on sunny summer days. Fly actively at launch and get away from terrain to get out into smoother air. Watch carefully for signs of a south wind building as the morning progresses by monitoring the windsock on Tram Tower 3. A moderate south wind can generate significant turbulence as one flies out, even if it often is not detectable at launch. P4+ (not accessible to hang gliders). Minimum glide ratio: 3.3.

LZ DETAILS

Elevation 6300’. Large, grassy (or snowy) field adjacent to Highway 390/Moose-Wilson Rd. Valley winds typically blow from the south; use a D-B-F approach set up to the east of the LZ. Be aware of the occasional gopher hole, especially in the north end of the LZ. Please aim for the middle of the field rather than coming in low over the fence on the north boundary of the field. Snow may become deep in winter; be prepared to post-hole upon landing! The parking lot and road to the north of the LZ heat up and become thermic in the summer sun. Set up your base leg over the north end of the grassy field to avoid that active, bubbly air.

OPERATING PARAMETERS

Pilots must abide by the USHPA’s recommended operating limitations for his/her rating. All pilots must fly an EN/LTF certified paraglider with a helmet and reserve parachute. Radios are also highly recommended.
Pilots must maintain a minimum of 500’ of clearance at all times from all structures including lift towers, cables, buildings, the tram dock, and other JHMR infrastructure as well as ski runs.
Rendezvous Bowl Launch: Ideal wind direction 130-200deg. Wind strength: min 0mph/max 15mph; ideal 5mph.
Rendezvous Summit Launch: Ideal wind direction 260-330deg. Wind strength: min 0mph/max 15mph; ideal 5mph.