Characteristics

Stanage gives excellent cross-country potential and in the right conditions gives excellent soaring along a long, scenic ridge. It is, however, far from straightforward and demands a healthy respect from those flying it.

The rocky outcrop nature of Stanage means that it is very unforgiving, and any mistake will have consequences. The take-off is small rocky and committing and needs a good launch technique; and the bottom landing is small and confined. The bottom of the crag and the slope are littered with boulders, so slope landing is not a good option. It can be thermic and rough, and if the wind is not bang on it will be rough.

Take-offs

Overstones (also known as “hangie” take-off): This launch is VERY shallow and needs a fast, committed take-off: it is then quite a challenging flight to contour the slope and fly west onto the main rock face at Hook’s Carr. Pilots are asked to refrain from launching unless they are confident they can stay up or reach one of the official landing sites, since the fields immediately below this launch area are sensitive and not to be used for normal landings.

DSC have an agreement not to disrupt aeromodelling activities at the east end of the bowl towards Callow Bank. D.S.C. members must not overfly this bowl unless they are above 200 feet and are confident of maintaining their height.

Hook’s Carr (main paraglider take-off): The take-off is confined and surrounded by rocks and boulders and there is a busy footpath at the rear. Do not obstruct this path and be mindful of members of the public when ground handling and taking off. The wind speed window is narrow and the take-off requires good ground handling and launch technique.

Top landing at launch is OK for experienced paraglider pilots or VERY experienced hang glider pilots keeping in mind the above points.

Bottom landings

A: Hollin Bank: South of the plantation and next to Hollin Bank car park is a large open area of grass and bracken. This is a useful 380 ft. below launch and is easily accessible. Be sure of wind direction, and be wary of thermals coming from the gully directly upwind; a good set-up with plenty of speed on approach should ensure a safe arrival. If you find yourself low near the plantation this is a better option than going for Hooks Carr which you are unlikely to reach.

B: Hooks Carr (normal landing), adjacent to the climbers’ car park: At the corner of the road, just NE of where the climbers park, 240 feet below launch. Land on the green square of turf by the road junction, taking careful note of the wind direction before choosing your approach. NB The landing here can often be nil wind and therefore fast, or off to the west requiring a crosswind landing, be careful to land into wind.

C: Carhead Emergency Landing: In an overshoot situation when approaching landing B, fly forward over the cars and the road to land on the tufted grass beyond: best to land as far to the east as possible thus avoiding the tussocks and landing close to the ONLY access gate onto the road. PLEASE USE IT.

Safety

Stanage is a potentially dangerous site, particularly for PGs. There are large boulders below launch, mostly hidden by bracken, and immediately after take-off you are flying above and alongside rocks and boulders. The site can be very rough when thermic or windy, always seek advice if you are at all unsure of conditions.

Be aware of vicious rotor behind the entire length of the Edge and always expect a strong wind gradient.

When crossing the plantation do so with plenty of height and expect to encounter rough air when crossing and at both edges

The bottom of the crag and the slope are littered with boulders, so slope landing is not a good option.

DO NOT SCRATCH or fly close to the rocks or the slope, if it drops and you’re struggling to stay up be prepared to head to the bottom landing early enough to reach it.

Special Rules

PLEASE use only designated landing areas: Stanage is our most environmentally sensitive flying site! At all times remember that Stanage area and North Lees merits the highest classification by English Nature as a protected area and is inhabited by many species of wildlife – DSC members are requested not to compromise this in any way.

These guidelines for flying at Stanage Edge have been carefully and responsibly agreed with the Peak District National Park Authority by D.S.C. on YOUR behalf: please respect the wildlife, the heritage and the landscape of Stanage whenever you are within this exceptional area.

Site Officer

John Youle