I've flown light aircraft for some time in southern Alberta, Canada. Only as a passenger in rotary in the Rocks. Climbing at 2k fpm to instantly dropping at 5kfpm can induce a serious pucker factor.
STALKING THE MOUNTAIN WAVE Mountain lee wave soaring and the history of wave soaring in southern Alberta, Canada.by Ursula Wiese is a great read. If you don't understand the way the weather works around here you can end up in a pile of hurt in a real hurry. If you pay attention the flying is never boring and always awe-inspiring.