Re: Cross country trip - Your favorite back country spot
A must see if in N. Eastern Washington Cavanaugh Bay, ID (66S)- A suitable Rwy for most aircraft (3100' grass). Fun approach over the water to 15. Camp on W. side, approach end of 15. Hot shower/bath room present (Courtesy of ID Dept of Aviation), drinkable water, courtesy car. Nice restaurant on the water if you don't want to eat by the camp fire. Not much of a town, but flying the area and camp site are worth it.
Of course, if you're in the area, stop and visit Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. Beautiful lake.
Re: Cross country trip - Your favorite back country spot
A great place in Western Washington.
Stehekin (6S9)-Located on the north end of Lake Chelan. Well maintained grass strip 2,600 ft long. They don't want you to camp on the run way area (bear concerns). There is a very nice camp site along the crystal clear Stehekin river about 1/2 mi up the dirt road, off to the right (South-just before the bridge). Most folks seem to reserve a camp site so if it's all full i'm not sure what's next. There is no cost. There are a few bicycles to use on the east side of the strip.
Nice hike to an old farmstead. There is a small town/harbor about 6 miles south. I'm told there is a good restaurant to visit.
We really enjoyed this little slice of heaven-one of our favorite spots.[ATTACH]13293
Re: Cross country trip - Your favorite back country spot
If you're into unique backcountry spots, check out the Frank Church Wilderness in Idaho. It's a massive area, and the backcountry strips offer technical landings, especially if you're looking for a challenge. The scenery is stunning, with rivers, deep canyons, and untouched wilderness. I also recommend Johnson Creek (3U2) in Idaho for a more relaxed spot; it's a favorite among pilots with plenty of camping and hiking opportunities right by the airstrip.For something different, I've been to Westgate in Branson, Missouri. It's not backcountry, but it's a great place to unwind after a long trip. The resort has everything you need for a comfortable stay, and the surroundings offer a nice break from the ruggedness of the backcountry.
Re: Cross country trip - Your favorite back country spot
I new found gem in ID, Garden Valley (U88).
Located along side the Payette river. Very nice grass strip 3800'@ an alt of 2300'. Camping spots, drinkable water, WIFi, Courtesy car, bathrooms, shower are all available. Beautiful spot with all you need. Caretaker #208-462-6036. Nice hike along the river. If in the area you won't be disappointed.Garden City 1.jpgGarden City 2.jpg
Re: Cross country trip - Your favorite back country spot
West Yellowstone (KWYS). Great camping area with out-house, water and a pavilion. FBO with WiFi, courtesy car (2 hr limit) and Bicycles. The town is a few miles away. Rental cars available for Yellowstone park. Stopped to camp for the night, lunch in town was great. Certainly a tourist trap but still fun.
The camping is on the north side of the tarmac, 50 yrds north of the FBO (behind the plane below). Just walk into the wooded area and you will stumble on the campsites/pavilion.
Re: Cross country trip - Your favorite back country spot
An epic trip from Provo, UT to Alaska via the Trench (Yukon, BC Canada). So much to see and show. This is a MUST do at least once in your life. The ultimate in backcountry flying. Words nor pictures are good enough. Don't be intimidated by the journey, with planning it's just one adventure filled day after another.
This is Chinitna Bay (across the Cook inlet from Homer), where you will land on the beach and see plenty of Grizzlies. They seemed more interested in eating grass (in June) for us to be of any interest.