Summer 1999

Hot Destinations This Summer!

Our third issue brings you destinations ranging from the verdant Pacific Northwest to the red rocks of Sedona in the Southwest. We also extend a special thank-you to the dedicated aviators who make flying in to these areas possible for the rest of us.

San Juan Islands, Washington

The Pacific Northwest's San Juan Archipelago is an ideal place to escape the hurried pace of modern life. Rolling farmland, windswept coastlines, noticeably clean air, and some spectacular flightseeing are the rewards of planning a visit to these popular islands. Pilot Getaways tells you all you need for trips to Orcas Island, Friday Harbor and the private airstrip at Roche Harbor Resort. Activities such as kayaking and whale watching are covered, along with details on where to dine, where to stay and where to catch some of North America's most beautiful sunsets.

Crested Butte, Colorado

Deep in the Rockies, the two towns of the Crested Butte area lie at the base of the 13,000-ft. Elk Mountains. In summer, hillsides here are a profusion of wildflowers in gold, purple and red. Numerous streams and rivers beckon visitors to a relaxing day of fly-fishing. Our writer is a Crested Butte resident and outdoors enthusiast who can get you in and around this Colorado haven.

Sedona, Arizona

The unusual red rock spires of Sedona are impressive enough from the ground, but private pilots have the added advantage of aerial views of this area between Arizona's desert and high country. In and among the red rock formations, Sedona offers a large variety of vacation activities and accommodations. Here, the Old West meets the New Age in the shadow of magnificent Southwest scenery.

Moab, Utah

Outdoor pursuits define the activity list in Moab. Little wonder, as the Canyonlands National Park to the south and west of town encompasses an incredible array of geological and archaeological landforms. Our article features the photography of Mark Gardner and Frank Mendonca to convey the beauty of this remote area. A sidebar on Needles Outpost will appeal to those pilots who enjoy off-pavement operations.

Half Moon Bay, California

Several small communities lie within easy reach of the Half Moon Bay airport near San Francisco's Bay area. After checking in to your quaint B&B, your day could be spent riding a horse along a white sand beach or wandering a tidepool in search of starfish at the Fitzgerald Marine Reserve. Our article tells you why Half Moon Bay was once favored by smugglers and gives you many options for dining and lodging on a Pacific Coast getaway weekend.

Farmington, New Mexico

It may be located at an airport, but Senor Pepper's is not your average airport restaurant. Picture windows over the runway and a tranquil, unhurried atmosphere set the scene for delicious Mexican cuisine and Favoritos Gringos. Pilot Getaways prepares you for a wonderful meal here and also provides lodging options, such as a man-made cave high up in a 320-ft. sandstone cliff.

San Diego, California

The clean, modern city of San Diego reclines along a beautiful stretch of California coastline. Soon after landing at Lindbergh or Montgomery Fields, romance-seekers will find myriad possibilities for adventure: Riding the trolley, strolling the historic district, visiting the Zoo, Sea World, or Balboa Park, just to name a few. Back in the air, we'll give you instructions for flying a little-publicized Harbor Tour.

Moose Creek, Idaho

The Selway Bitterroot Wilderness in Idaho's rugged backcountry is home to a little slice of paradise: Moose Creek. You won't find golf courses and swimming pools or even restaurants here, it is a place to camp in the shadow of your aircraft and enjoy the quiet solitude of nature. We've posted an online version of the Moose Creek article from Pilot Getaways Summer Issue for your enjoyment, click here to read it.

Constricted Approaches

Negotiating the deep, often narrow canyons of the Idaho backcountry requires precision, control, performance, and safety. Commercial Pilot and CFII Amy Hoover has over 4,000 hours and has been flying and instructing in Idaho since 1989. She shares her technical expertise and experience in our Summer Issue to give you the best possible edge for your backcountry adventures.