Spring 2002

Enjoy Destinations from Coast to Coast!

Our readers have asked repeatedly, and we’ve been listening. With this issue, Pilot Getaways introduces its first East Coast getaway, an exciting expansion of our traditional line-up of Western destinations. Your choices in this issue are at opposite ends of the spectrum, from posh world-class resorts to a 4,000-square-mile no-man’s land. Join fellow pilots for stargazing under dark skies at a private airstrip, or stand up on a Pacific wave during a no-fail guaranteed surfing lesson. We’ve packed as much fun as we can into this issue of Pilot Getaways, and we’re proud to take you from sea to shining sea.

Prospect, Oregon

The intensely blue circle of Crater Lake is a familiar sight for pilots passing through the southern Cascade Mountains. Visit this collapsed volcano up close by planning a trip to the nearby town of Prospect. A half-mile from the airport, the historic Prospect Hotel welcomes pilots and their families. With three days notice, the hotel owners will arrange your transportation to Crater Lake, 30 miles away. Even if you don’t visit the crater’s rim, the friendly town of Prospect is a wonderful stopover all by itself.

Naples, Florida

The elegant waterfront city of Naples is a pilot’s paradise, surrounded by a watery marshlands of with mangroves and manatees. Head along the Gulf of Mexico to the southern tip of Florida, where you’ll find this city known equally for its golf resorts and ecological preserves. Nautical activities are an obvious choice in this American city reminiscent of Venice, Italy with canals wending their way past romantic sidewalk cafes and shopping plazas. Our article offers you all the details you need to fly in to this place of magical sunshine.

Columbia, California

The spirit of the Gold Rush lives on in Columbia, a boom-and-bust town now preserved as a state park. Columbia’s main attractions and historic downtown are within a short walk from the airport. Fly in to participate in the area’s history, to take in a show at the 114-year old Fallon Theatre, and to enjoy the fresh air of the Central Sierras. You’re not likely to strike it rich at gold panning here, but you can certainly live the dream of the mother lode.

Durango, Colorado

A visit to Durango combines two great travel experiences: flying through over the magnificent San Juan Mountains, and a cliff-hanging ride through the wilderness on a 1920s-era steam locomotive. The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad has been the area’s top attraction for over a century. We’ll fill you in on where to stay, where to eat, and what to see… at both ends of the line.

Red Lodge, Montana

From the time of its earliest inhabitants, Red Lodge has been considered a place of ethereal beauty. Situated north of Yellowstone, the town of Red Lodge stretches along Rock Creek among the Beartooth and Crazy Horse Mountains. Come here to enjoy fishing, hiking, skiing, and other outdoor pursuits. In town, cafés and gourmet restaurants keep you well fed and watered. Unique attractions, like the Montana Candy Emporium and pig betting, are among author Galen Hanselman’s suggested to-dos on an escape to Red Lodge.

Carlsbad, California

The tranquil town of Carlsbad offers the best of Southern California. From building sandcastles at the beach to building just about anything at nearby LEGOLAND, Carlsbad lets you relax and recharge. Golf courses and resorts are easy to find here, but so are great options for the budget traveler. Dine under an elegant Victorian rotunda for one meal, then elbow up to strangers at an open-air pizza joint for the next. Carlsbad has fun for the whole family, whether you prefer it casual or sophisticated.

Lava Hot Springs, Idaho

There’s something invigorating about soaking in a steamy 100+-degree natural pool fed by thermal vents under the earth. The springs drain off into the refreshingly cool Portneuf River, where tubing the mini-rapids gives kids and adults alike a major kick. Lava Hot Springs is an affordable, somewhat rustic getaway, to which you are personally invited by airstrip owner and author Reed White. You’ll also want to consider Lava for the Second Annual Fly-In Star Party planned for August, 2002.

Granbury, Texas

Fly in for dinner on the Square, followed by a night in a Victorian mansion, in the enchanting town of Granbury. This Texas pioneer town offers a top-quality Opera House and the romance of one of America’s last drive-ins. You can golf, take a paddlewheeler cruise, or marvel at the riverside prehistoric footprints of Dinosaur Valley. Granbury’s history is alive with controversy over its Jesse James burial site and the suspicion that former resident John St. Helen was really President Lincoln’s assassin John Wilkes Booth. We’ll tell you the stories behind the mysteries waiting in Granbury.

Rosamond, California

Panoramic views of the Mojave Desert and perfectly blended margaritas are just two reasons to head for The Golden Cantina of Rosamond. This popular restaurant in a residential skypark serves up a mix of traditional Mexican dishes and seafood, plus a few stand-by American favorites. You may want to time your meal to sunset, when the changing colors of the mountains makes for a spectacular show.

Arco-Kimama Desert, Idaho

Pilots who associate Idaho with mountain flying will be surprised to learn about Arco-Kimama. The “other side to Idaho flying” is 4,000 square miles of no-man’s land that includes the Craters of the Moon National Monument and some well-maintained bush airstrips. Join renowned author Galen Hanselman for an intimate tour of the bizarre world hidden in the lava fields. Hanselman also shares when spring wildflowers bloom, how to explore a 15-mile underground lava tube, and spins tales of the lonely souls who have found solace in the isolation here.

Monument Valley, Utah

Subscriber and pilot Kurt Lightfoot was truly inspired by author Greg Illes’ Monument Valley feature article in the Winter 2000/2001 issue. However, he was intimidated by the idea of actually making the trip. Kurt tells you how he overcame his bêtes noires and headed into Utah red rock country, only to find it more beautiful than he could ever have imagined.

Tie Downs - The Best Anti-Flying Techniques

If there’s one thing you don’t want, it’s for your aircraft to take off without you. Greg Illes shares excellent suggestions for doing the due diligence of tying down.