Crawford

• Wind directionWSW (240°) → W (280°)
• Ideal speed6–12 mph
• Upper limits≤ 14 mph base · gusts ≤ 15

Crawford's (aka Randolph), a west-facing high-altitude mountain-thermal ridge (~7700 ft MSL) near Randolph, UT, overseen by UHGPGA. The club site guide gives explicit numbers. Flyable window is W-SW; "a west to slightly NW wind works best," so the ideal arc centers on due West (~270), extending into SW; NW (270-300) and the SW edge are marginal/cross. Ideal speed: P2 6-8 mph, H2 8-12 mph (combined ~6-12 mph). Max usable ~12 mph (P2) / 14 mph (H2); winds above 15 mph may require an assisted launch. The guide also lists a low gust-spread tolerance ("Gust 4 mph"), so smooth conditions are required. Hazards: strong burble/irregular airflow immediately after launch, rotors behind the ridge (do NOT attempt top landing), midday thermic turbulence, and an evening wind gradient with mild cool-air turbulence approaching the valley floor. Best time: arrive early afternoon and wait for the wind to come up; good for evening ridge soaring (~10 miles soarable). Access: USHPA P2/H2 rating required (or under direct supervision); USHPA + UHGPGA membership required; first-time pilots should get an in-person site briefing from a local member. 4WD year-round, tire chains in snow season. Great in early spring/fall but heavy mosquitoes near the oxbow river.