Raven's Roost

• Wind directionW (270°) → NW (315°)
• Ideal speed5–12 mph
• Upper limits≤ 15 mph base · gusts ≤ 18

Cliff/boulder-field launch on the Blue Ridge Parkway near Wintergreen VA (Raven's Roost Overlook, ~MP 10.7), facing roughly WEST over Torrey Ridge and the Shenandoah Valley. Works best in W to NW winds (the N/W/NW orientation hint plus confirmed west-facing aspect); WSW and N are marginal/cross. Launch is a boulder field with no clear run area, requiring a hop-and-jump off a sheer cliff lined by trees — a high-commitment, non-beginner launch (recommend P3/H3+ and a strong, reverse-capable launch in light air). Pilot reports note success in LIGHT winds ("light and getting lighter"), with strong thermal potential (climbs of ~2000 ft above launch, occasionally to cloudbase), so mid-day thermal cycles can build quickly and make the launch and LZ gusty. Hazards: surrounding/overgrown trees and boulders at launch, lee-side rotor in any easterly/backing component, venturi and gusty ground winds at the small valley LZ (green pasture with fences, livestock, and a creek). Best in light-to-moderate W/NW flow; mornings or late afternoon avoid the strongest mid-day gust cycles. Avoid if wind is forecast strong, easterly (over-the-back), or strongly cross from the south/north. Speed numbers are inferred (no published club limits found) — treat as conservative PG values; HG can tolerate the upper end.