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Current conditions
Where it is
What we look for at Box Canyon (Tucson)
Wind direction
SW (235°) → NNE (15°)
The wind must blow from within this arc. Direction is the same for both wings.
Ideal speed
4–12 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.
Box Canyon is a multi-launch site on the W side of the Santa Rita Mtns, ~40 min S of Tucson; the given 6096 ft coords correspond to the Top Launch. SAHGA club guide gives explicit per-launch "Go"/"Caution" arcs (wind FROM, met deg): Lower SW launch 235-265 (caution 225-275); Lower NW launch 320-350 (caution 310-360); Lower N launch 350-15 (caution 345-25); Mid launch (5700 MSL) 265-310 (caution 255-320), requires 4WD/high-clearance; Top launch (6100 MSL) 335-350 (caution 320-360). Aggregated, the site works across a broad W-through-N arc (~235 to 15). Pilots should "really look for northwest winds" - NW is the prime direction. With NNW follow the E-W ridge S of launch; with W use the smaller ridge N of launch. Speed: 4-16 mph, ~8-10 mph ideal, MAX GUST FACTOR 5 mph over 5 sec (a hard limit - very low-gust site). HAZARD: rotor at lower launch when winds from the WEST; the due-W sector (~275-305) is a no-go at lower launch (mid launch covers W). Rocks, shrubs, cactus below each launch are hazards in weak winds. Ratings: lower launches P2; mid H3 (or H2 w/ sponsor), P3; top P3 (or P2 w/ sponsor); ridge soaring needs RS endorsement. ACCESS: current SAHGA/AZHPA + USHPA membership required, mandatory site briefing for visitors; site is hard to find/access - fly with a local guide first time. Good conditions year-round.
Window data compiled from sahga.com — public site guides and club resources.
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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.