Eagle Butte

• Wind directionSSW (210°) → W (260°)
• Ideal speed8–18 mph
• Upper limits≤ 22 mph base · gusts ≤ 26

Eagle Butte is a low desert butte (1201 ft MSL) in the Tri-Cities / Richland WA area (Columbia Basin). paraglidingEarth orientation is S, SW, W, so it is a SW-to-W facing ridge/thermal-soaring site that works best on the prevailing westerly/southwesterly flow common to the basin; ideal core arc ~210-260 deg (SW-W). Marginal/cross edges at S (~180) and WNW (~285). No club/USHPA guide with explicit speed numbers was found, so the speeds (ideal 8-18 mph, max base ~22, max gust ~26) are inferred from the orientation plus general low-butte ridge/PG ridge-soaring norms; treat as rough. ACCESS WARNING: multiple sources indicate Eagle Butte is currently CLOSED to flying because new landowners have not allowed access; confirm legal access with Tri-Cities free-flight pilots (tcfreefly.com / Tri-Cities Paragliding) before going. Typical desert-butte hazards apply: strong midday thermals and dust devils, gusty/punchy lift, leeside rotor if wind backs to E/NE or comes over the back, and overdevelopment of the gradient on hot afternoons. Best window is generally morning or late afternoon to avoid the strongest midday thermal cycle and venturi/gradient buildup. Nearby active alternative: Kiona.