Mustang

• Wind directionSW (230°) → W (270°)
• Ideal speed0–12 mph
• Upper limits≤ 12 mph base · gusts ≤ 17

WSW-facing grassy launch (hidden rocks) in the Mustang Mountains ~10 mi E of Sonoita, AZ. Per the SAHGA (Southern Arizona Hang Gliding Assoc.) site guide: ideal wind FROM 230-270 deg; usable/marginal 220-295 deg; NO-GO 295-315 deg due to rotor off the large rock outcropping directly N of launch (which can also produce a false West wind on launch when true direction is more N). PG ideal 8 mph (range 0-12 mph); HG ideal 10 mph (range 5-15 mph); max gust ~5 mph over 5 sec. Do NOT launch in winds over 12 mph. Rarely flyable if winds aloft forecast over 12 mph at 6k or 16 mph at 9k. HAZARDS: in strong westerlies, getting blown over the back is a very real possibility, and winds aloft are often stronger than forecast (actual ~3-5 mph above forecast; single-digit LZ wind often means double-digit on launch). NW winds aloft cause turbulence off the nearby butte ('the Biscuit'). Venturi in the valley S of launch. BEST TIME: known for late afternoon/evening glass-offs; watch for evening katabatic/sinking flow near the mountain. RATING/ACCESS: H2/P2 minimum, RS rating for ridge soaring/glass-off; USHPA + SAHGA membership recommended. Access via AZ-82, S on Upper Elgin Rd through gate (windmill on right), to LZ ~5,900 ft MSL; ~45 min, 1.1 mi, 960 ft hike to launch. No facilities.