Dinosaur

• Wind directionSE (135°) → SW (225°)
• Ideal speed5–15 mph
• Upper limits≤ 18 mph base · gusts ≤ 22

Dinosaur = Cliff Ridge Hang Gliding Area on Blue Mountain Plateau (Utah/Colorado border near Vernal), ~8,140-8,150 ft launch; primary LZ "Snake Pit" ~6,673 ft about 1 mi from base, secondary "Corral" LZ ~1 mi further. South-facing thermal/XC site (SW, S, SE launches) with some ridge soaring; major XC potential, host of the USHPA-sanctioned Dinosaur Open. The cliff creates its own weather and is "launchable in almost any wind direction unless winds are strong," so the workable arc is forgiving, but the clean ideal is SE through SW. Best time: mornings are light and good for experienced pilots; MIDDAY brings VERY strong, punchy blue thermals (high-desert, high-density-altitude air) — challenging and the reason P4 is recommended for paragliders; evenings occasionally glass off. Hazards: strong midday thermal turbulence, high density altitude (thin air = faster wings/longer launch runs), strong westerly winds aloft can overdevelop conditions and cause rotor/lee issues if surface winds back W or come over the back. Watch for overdevelopment and venturi. Access: BLM Cliff Ridge Hang Gliding Area; dirt road to top. Rating: P4/advanced recommended due to demanding air.