Mentone
CAChecking for active TFRs… Verify on the FAA ↗
Location
What we look for at Mentone
Wind direction
S (180°) → SW (225°)
The wind must blow from within this arc. Direction is the same for both wings.
Ideal speed
3–8 mph
Ceiling · Paragliding
≤ 19 mph base · gusts ≤ 23
Top of the range for paragliding (any rating). Switch wings up top to compare. Hang gliders hold roughly 10 mph more than paragliders.
Mentone is an SSW-facing launch (Spine ~3160' and Bump ~3365' MSL) above San Bernardino, used as an alternative when Marshall/Crestline are unflyable. Ideal is a light SSW thermic/valley breeze - "you just want a 5 mph breeze." It is a light-wind, thermic site, NOT a soaring site: the club guide explicitly warns "if the winds are enough to ridge soar, do not launch as it is rotor." Best flown 3 PM or later when the valley wind organizes; avoid midday. The Bump launch (350 ft / ~17 min hike above the Spine) is preferred because it avoids switchy cross-spine winds. Site is sometimes flown when winds are light north at Crestline/Marshall, but use caution in any leeside condition - winds can change suddenly. Access via dirt road (2WD with moderate clearance OK). Rating: Intermediate P3/H3 minimum; USHPA membership required. In-person site briefing from a local pilot strongly recommended.
Window data compiled from crestlinesoaring.org, public site guides and club resources.
Next 7 days How calls are made
Reviews
No reviews yet. Be the first.
Send feedback about this flying site
Sign in to contributeConditions are an automated estimate from public forecast models, not a go/no-go call. Always check the sky, talk to locals, and fly within your rating. You are responsible for your own safety.