Chalk Bluffs

• Wind directionSSE (160°) → SSW (200°)
• Ideal speed7–15 mph
• Upper limits≤ 18 mph base · gusts ≤ 20

No club/USHPA site guide with explicit numbers was found for Chalk Bluffs as a flying launch; figures are inferred from the documented south (S) orientation plus general Owens Valley knowledge. Chalk Bluff is a ~300 ft high escarpment running roughly E-W for ~5 miles across the northern Owens Valley just north of Bishop (Bishop Tuff / Volcanic Tablelands), elev ~4432 ft MSL. As a south-facing bluff it ridge-soars best in a straight-on south wind (~160-200 deg); SE/SW (~130-230 deg) is workable but increasingly cross. HAZARDS: Owens Valley is a strong-thermal / strong-wind XC region where "light winds are critical." Strong prevailing W winds spilling over the Sierra can produce powerful rotor and turbulence behind ridges; mid-summer desert heating makes the valley floor dangerously thermic/turbulent. Best seasons May-early June and Sep-mid Oct; avoid the height of summer. Best time of day is generally morning or late afternoon when valley wind/thermal cycles are calmer; a light onshore south cycle is ideal for soaring this small bluff. Keep base wind modest (roughly 7-15 mph) with a low gust ceiling (~20 mph) given the small ridge height and rotor potential. Treat the speed/gust limits as conservative placeholders, not site-verified numbers. Verify locally with Bishop-area pilots before flying.