Dried Meat Lake (Camrose) Ridge
Camrose County, Alberta
Type of Site: Flatland Ridge Site (HG/PG)
Total Height: 51m
Welcome to the prairies! The ridge above Dried Meat Lake and the Battle River is the main site used by Edmonton based pilots. While the ridge itself is quite short, it is located within some of the best XC territory in Canada. The ridge is only about 50m high, but over 7km in length, lending itself to scenic out and returns above the winding river.
This site is not without its hazards. The short height of the ridge makes for a narrow soaring window. The undulating ridges and poplar groves can cause both rotor and puddles of sink as you progress along the ridge. P2 is recommended for sled runs here, P3 for ridge soaring, and P4 for thermal XC escapes.
For hang gliders, take the normal precautions associated with low altitude ridge soaring. A good day out here will see pilots of both varieties in the sky, and ridge rules need to be taken into account.
Finally, it cannot be understated that this site on private property, and should be treated as a privilege at all points in time. The landowner, and the land itself need to be treated with the utmost respect. If you have never flown here before, contact a local to join use for your first visit. There are many minor rules that one needs to be aware of to ensure our continued use of the site.
Access: This site is on PRIVATE PROPERTY. Our continued use of the space is dependent on our
collaborative respect of the landowner, and our conscientious use of the space he has allowed us to fly in. Please be advised that the road may be muddy during shoulder seasons or after rain. If the road is muddy, park and walk before you cause any ruts.
To access the site, drive along AB-56 until you reach AB-609. Turn east onto AB-609 and drive
about 1.6km, take your first right. Drive south approximately 2.8km along the private road, and park behind the gate at the top of the ridge. Take note of the condition of the road. If it is at all muddy, stop your car and walk the rest of the way.
Once you’ve reached the end of the road, pass through the cattle gate to access the take-off space. Remember to always keep the gate shut. You may otherwise cause the landowner’s herd to escape when you aren’t paying attention.
Launch: The launch is SSW facing, and operates in SSE to SW winds. Ridge soaring typically requires wind between approximately 20km/h and 35km/h, depending on what kind of wing you are flying. Be aware of gusts, particularly in the middle of summer days when thermals intermix with the ridge wind.
Hazards on launch include the barb wire fence that stretches along the top of the ridge (has claimed a few gliders), some old farm structures, and trees. On busy days pilots should take into account other gliders, as well as right-of-way, before launching themselves.
Landing: Top landing is, of course, ideal, but there is no lack of open space to land at the bottom of the ridge. Hazards at landing include live cattle, which you will occasionally share the site with. If the cows are out, do your best to steer clear (pun intended). The herd is naturally curious, and will come check you out if you land anywhere nearby. If the herd does come to say hello, be respectful and calmly walk away. Do not spook the herd as it could potentially damage our reputation with the landowner.
Airspace: There are no airspace restrictions at either take-off or landing. Pilots fortunate enough to thermal out will encounter the Edmonton CAE (Class B) at 12,500 ft. The YEG TCA (Class C) also begins approximately 18km to the Northwest, extending from 9,500ft to 12,500ft. The village of New Norway is a good marker for the start of controlled airspace. Finally, there are Class E airways in multiple directions. Consult the Edmonton VFR map for further information.
XC Options: If you’ve escaped from this site, it’s likely that you’re headed either North or Northeast. On a good day here you can go FAR, so bring warm gloves and snacks. Pilots looking to escape the ridge should be at the top of their game. Thermal days at the ridge are no easy task, and deserve as much respect as any mountain site (if not more).
Site Weather Links:
Additional Links:
https://paraglidingearth.com/?site=11000
Local Contact:
Doug Litzenberger (HG)
(587) 987-1449
Stu Cobbledick (PG)
(780) 405-2373
