Jenkins (Birmingham)

• Wind directionSE (140°) → S (185°)
• Ideal speed8–15 mph
• Upper limits≤ 18 mph base · gusts ≤ 22

Jenkins is a cliff/ramp launch on Chandler Mountain (~1 hr north of Birmingham, near Horse Pens 40), roughly 750 ft AGL above Beason Cove. The launch faces SSE, about 150-160 degrees. Multiple pilot/site descriptions give preferred winds from roughly 160-185 deg at about 10+ mph, and report it as very launchable in 5-15 mph; ideal arc centered on the SSE facing with marginal/cross edges extending toward E (per the E/SE/S working octants) and S. About 10-12 miles of soarable ridge; top-landable. Longest XC flight reported around 105 mi to Tennessee, so it can produce strong cross-country days. Rated Hang 3 / intermediate (P3-equivalent), cliff/ramp launch = committing, no-step-down. Standard ridge hazards apply: leeside rotor and turbulence if wind backs/veers off the SSE arc or builds beyond ~15-18 mph; a steady mid-strength SSE flow is best. Speeds (8-15 mph ideal, ~18 mph base, ~22 mph gust cap) are inferred for typical SE-US ridge/cliff PG/HG operations since explicit club max-speed/gust numbers were not found. Access is via the Alabama Hang Gliding Association; verify current access, conditions, and ratings with the AHGA before flying.