Eagle Rock

• Wind directionE (90°) → S (180°)
• Ideal speed0–10 mph
• Upper limits≤ 15 mph base · gusts ≤ 20

Eagle Rock (Roanoke Valley HGA / Skywackers chapter) is a dual-launch ridge near Roanoke, VA, aligned SW-NE. Two distinct launches: SE launch ideal 90-180 deg (acceptable 80-180), elev 2229 ft, 350-900 AGL, the most commonly flown side, favoring sunny light-wind upslope convection; NW launch ideal 280-350 deg (acceptable 270-350), elev 2220 ft, 675-1280 AGL, steeper, best behind cold fronts with clear unstable air. Both launches: ideal wind 0-10 mph, max base 15 mph, max gust only ~5 mph (gust-sensitive site). idealDir reflects the primary/most-common SE arc; the NW arc (280-350) is given as the secondary/marginal field but is itself a fully usable ideal arc on the opposite side. Hazards: power lines cross the SE main LZ; comm tower behind NW launch (soaring concern); LZ just below launch is small and demands accurate landing; NW LZ has variable/tall grass and possible marshy areas. Best times: light sunny days for local thermal/upslope heating, post-frontal NW days in spring/fall, and unpredictable late-afternoon/evening "wonder winds" June-Oct. Access: current USHGA/USHPA membership required, H-3/P-3 minimum (H-2/P-2 with supervision), helmet mandatory, day use only, no camping without landowner permission, do not park on launch.