Yaquina Head
📍 Oregon , Lincoln County · Nearest city: Newport (4 km)
17 XC score / 100 · takeoff at 103 m · 📍 View on map
Coordinates and external links
44.67480, -124.06700Takeoff orientations
Green = good orientation · Yellow = possible · Gray = not suitable
Why this site has thermal potential
| Factor | Value | Interpretation |
|---|---|---|
| Hotspot density (5 km) | 0 | Low |
| Avg thermal probability | 0.00 | Based on thousands of aggregated IGC flights |
| Solar orientation | 0.56 | Slope faces south in northern hemisphere |
| Own flight history | 0.00 | Thermals detected in platform IGC tracks |
Takeoff description
A rocky promontory with a lighthouse forms the outer part of the headland. Launches are possible to the north and south along the ridge to the east of the lighthouse, or to the south after a short hike to the top of the headland. Beware of strong shear layers which can produce light winds on the surface with blow-back conditions only a few dozen feet above. If the weather station wind sensors are spinning madly, don't assume the light winds you feel are real!
Rules and notes
Read the directions on the sign by the yellow gate about approved flight areas. Flight out near the lighthouse is not allowed due to nesting seabirds. Flight to the beach is allowed only when departing for landing, no out-and-back to the beach.
Pilot comments
Can be good, but can be too strong very easily. Hang gliders may have difficulty launching from the summit because of brush/tree growth, which is hopefully to be corrected. Nice coastal soaring if the wind speed is right. May get quite strong on summer afternoons.
Nearby sites
Tierra Del Mar (8) · Sand Lake (8) · Cape Lookout (3) · Prairie Peak (3) · Oceanside (12) · Sollie Smith (7)