Salton Sea

• Wind directionN (0°) → N (359°)
• Ideal speed0–7 mph
• Upper limits≤ 10 mph base · gusts ≤ 12

Salton Sea is a flat, below-sea-level (-233 ft MSL) shoreline location, NOT a ridge/thermal free-flight launch. It is used almost exclusively for POWERED paragliding (paramotor/PPG) — there is no hill to soar, so any wind direction "works" (the all-octant orientation hint reflects foot/motor launch into whatever wind exists, not a directional ridge). Prized for being dead calm much of the day: a steady, light off-lake breeze (typically ~5 mph, NW-WNW) keeps the air thermal-free, and the lake moderates heating so conditions stay smooth all day. Best season is winter (Nov-Mar); a large paramotor gathering ("TrikeBuggy Boogie" / USPPA fly-in) happens in February. Light, glassy mornings and evenings are ideal. HAZARDS: mid-day thermals fire just inland of the shoreline (stay over/near the water to avoid them); local winds are weak katabatic/anabatic flows off the surrounding mountains. ACCESS: some prior landing zones are now off-limits due to trespassing — fly respectfully and use sanctioned LZs. For unpowered free flight specifically there is no usable soaring lift here; treat speeds above ~10 mph as unflyable for a paramotor/flatland launch.