Mount Jumbo

Mount Jumbo Site Map

Please pay special attention where the launches and the landing zones are below. Click the Launch Details and Landing Area Details for more information on launches and landing areas.

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Mount Jumbo Launch

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Mount Jumbo Landing

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Mount Jumbo Rating Requirements – P3/M2

Paragliding
-P2 must have 5 flights with site observer
-After observed flights, P2 must be with P3

Mini Wing
-M1 must have 5 flights with site observer
-After observed flights, M1 must be with M2 (unless P3)

Observers: see current listing under the ABOUT page.

Mount Jumbo Rules and Regulation

Important Site Information and Protocol

1. Call the Missoula Air Traffic Control Tower from the trailhead. (406) 549-2979. Tell them you will be flying Mount Jumbo, the number of pilots, approximate launch time. Be polite and brief when speaking with the tower personnel—they are busy. If the tower personnel have any questions or concerns, please direct them to Paul Roys (Club President) at (406)203-2695.
2. Call the tower again at the conclusion of the flying session. Post “open” and “closed” to the Missoula Tower What’s App chat.
3. Current USHPA membership required. Paragliders, and Mini Wings are permitted on Mount Jumbo.
   • P3/M2 required to fly alone.
   • Pilots new to the site must fly with a local pilot before going solo.
   • P-2/M-1 (novice) pilots must fly 5 flights with 2 different pilots who have flown the site for at least a season.
4. Avoid the Class D airspace that begins approximately 1 mile west of Mount Jumbo. Stay alert for the occasional low-flying aircraft, especially inbound from the east.
5. Avoid disturbing deer or elk when flying. Mount Jumbo is closed seasonally from Dec-April as designated elk wintering habitat.
6. Please check for postings of mid-to-late-summer fire restrictions that often close the mountain.
7. Fly within the recommended operating limitations for your rating; pay attention to changing conditions….
   Acceptable Wind Conditions: N-SSW 0-20mph.

Map of Mount Jumbo: See the “Location” tab to view illustrations for site maps and launch and landing parameters.

Questions? Contact Paul Roys, USHPA HG/PG observer for Mount Jumbo: (406) 203-2695 or visit www.glidemissoula.org for site information and club contacts

Observers: see current listing under the ABOUT page.

Mount Jumbo is a mountain thermal site located on the edge of Missoula, Montana. Conditions can vary from light to strong winds with moderate thermals. Mountain flying experience is recommended to fly this site. As with any mountain site, conditions may change quickly, so it is recommended to contact locals prior to flying this site. There is potential for rotor if pilots fly behind the launch area, ridgelines, tree lines, or houses. Pilots need to actively pay attention to wind speed, wind direction, and altitude, and be aware of venturi flow in the river canyon….. west winds can create a strong venturi in the canyon which should be avoided. Pilots should also keep an eye on the sky to watch for changing conditions, and it is not recommended for pilots to fly with overdevelopment, storms, or virga in the vicinity due to the potential for strong outflow winds. Pilots should actively determine ability and plans to make the LZs. Midday spring and fall can be very active air, requiring strong active piloting skills. Midday summer conditions can be very challenging. Morning or evening flights during those seasons will be generally safer for lesser experienced pilots.

Weather Resources

• NOAA Forecast
• US AIRNET  Forecast
• Weather Underground Forecast

Last Revised : Feb 26, 2024