Site Information
North America – USA – Colorado
Villa Grove is a hang gliding site located near Villa Grove, CO in the San Luis Valley. It is a high-altitude big air mountain site that sits along the north end of the Sangre De Cristo range1. The site faces SW at approximately 9,700ft MSL, 1,700ft above the primary LZ which is at 8,000ft MSL. The primary LZ is miles and miles of grass and short sage fields starting at the base of the Sangre De Cristo range. The Sangre De Cristos range from 12,000ft MSL to over 14,000ft MSL and run unbroken for over 60 miles to the south of launch, then a 15 mile gap and continuing into New Mexico.
The launch area is accessible by a dirt road that requires a high clearance 4WD vehicle2. The launch is a gentle slope with plenty of room for setup and launch2. The coordinates of the launch are 38.291772, -105.8825001. The coordinates of the primary LZ are 38.268333, -105.8922222. There are other LZ options along the valley floor depending on the wind direction and strength2.
Flying Conditions and Restrictions
Villa Grove offers both ridge soaring and thermal opportunities for hang gliding. The site is suitable for H2/P2 pilots’ early mornings and late evenings when conditions permit but requires a minimum H3/P3 rating other times12. Paraglider pilots should use extreme caution mid-day due to high wind and strong thermals1. This is a high-altitude big air mountain site that can be challenging for inexperienced pilots.
There are no formal restrictions on flying at Villa Grove, but pilots should follow the USHPA guidelines and respect the local landowners and residents. Pilots should also be aware of the airspace regulations and avoid flying into restricted areas such as military operations areas (MOAs) or controlled airspace around airports2. Pilots should also avoid flying over wildlife areas or disturbing livestock on the ground.
Pilots should be prepared for high altitude flying including cold weather gear, flying with a hydro pack and radio. Oxygen is recommended. Pilots should also carry a first-aid kit, ropes, and a knife in case of emergencies. Pilots should always check the weather forecast before flying and monitor the wind speed and direction at launch and LZ. Pilots should also have a retrieve plan and communicate with other pilots or ground crew.
Best Times to Fly and Visit
The best time to visit Villa Grove is also from April to October, when the San Luis Valley offers many attractions and activities for visitors. The valley is known for its natural beauty, wildlife, history, culture, and outdoor recreation. Some of the highlights include:
- The Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, which features the tallest sand dunes in North America and a variety of ecosystems3.
- The Rio Grande Scenic Railroad, which offers scenic train rides through the mountains and valleys of southern Colorado3.
- The San Luis Valley Museum Association, which consists of 20 museums and historical sites that showcase the heritage and diversity of the region3.
- The Joyful Journey Hot Springs Spa and Conference Center, which offers mineral hot springs, spa treatments, yoga classes, and lodging4.
- The Rocky Top River Ranch, which offers camping, fishing, hiking, biking, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing on a 160-acre property along the Arkansas River4.
More Information
For more information about Villa Grove hang gliding site, you can visit the following websites or contact the following people:
- The Rocky Mountain Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association (RMHPA), which is the local USHPA chapter that manages the site and provides site guides, maps, weather links, and other resources1. You can visit their website at http://www.rmhpa.org/site_guide/villa.htm or contact Rich Jesuroga at [email protected]12.
- The Hang Gliding Org Forum, which is an online community of hang gliding enthusiasts who share tips, experiences, and advice on various topics related to hang gliding3. You can visit their forum at https://forum.hanggliding.org/viewtopic.php?t=31674 or contact John at 805-550-94973.
