Winter 2000/2001

Second Anniversary Issue!

As the temperature starts to dip and the snow begins to fall, the many diverse options for Winter fun beckon. Whether you want to enjoy the snow at a famous ski resort in Idaho, soak in a natural springs hot tub in California, swim in the Texas surf, or warm up in the Arizona desert sun, you'll find what you desire in our Winter 2000/2001 issue.

Sun Valley, Idaho

Referred to as "America's Alps," Sun Valley has a winning combination of excellent skiing, awe-inspiring surroundings, and a small-town atmosphere. It's no wonder that many of the rich & famous make this resort their winter playground.

Mustang Island, Texas

This island on the Texas Gulf Coast got its name from wild horses that once ran along its beaches. With the Mustang Beach Airstrip conveniently located just a few paces from the sandy beaches, you may find your spirit will run as free as those legendary horses.

Angel Fire, New Mexico

The Moreno Valley in New Mexico is home to several quaint mountain villages, but the gem of them all is called Angel Fire. A year-round, fly-in resort, Angel Fire is the perfect place to enjoy Winter activities.

Santa Paula, California

When you think of this Southern California airport, think planes, trains, and automobiles. Just 12 miles inland from the Pacific Ocean, Santa Paula Airport has a tradition called "First Sunday," held on the first Sunday of each month. During this event, one of the largest collections of antique and classic aircraft in the country, as well as classic cars, provide ample sightseeing opportunities for the visiting pilot. Walk into town and you can hop on the historic Southern Pacific Railroad to Fillmore, completing the recipe for a great weekend getaway.

Bisbee, Arizona

Just a few miles from the Mexico border, Bisbee was once home to the country's richest copper mine. Today, it is an art community, where eccentricity and individuality are encouraged. Its near-perfect climate and unique charm give you a great excuse to escape the cold this winter.

Chiriaco Summit, California

General George S. Patton chose this location to train his troops destined for North Africa in World War II. Its "18,000 square miles of nothing, in a desert designed for hell" served as a perfect training ground. Today, General Patton Memorial Museum is just a short walk from the airstrip he used. You can see how our troops trained in the desert heat--but you'll be in air-conditioned comfort!

Surprise Valley Hot Springs, California

A little-known, magical place is tucked in the northeast corner of California. Your own private patio with a mineral springs hot tub lets you soak away the tiredness in your bones and spirit. With massage services and no cable TV or phones, this is the perfect place to really escape with your special someone.

Burlington, Washington

Skagit Regional Airport is home to the Crosswinds Restaurant & Lounge which is known to pilots and locals alike for its tasty meals. But the food is not the only attraction. An annual Tulip Festival is also a great excuse to land here.

Monument Valley, Utah

Join author Greg Illes at one of his favorite spots. To him, the main attraction of Monument Valley is not just the 4,000-ft. one-way strip; it is also that this is one of the few places where you can fly unrestricted among rock formations that tower above your aircraft.

Mountain Waves - How to Avoid Danger in the Mountains

One day, you might find yourself enjoying (or fighting) an incredible climb rate of over 3,000 fpm. But you need to remember that you may soon encounter a downdraft just as severe. Many glider pilots know how to "surf" mountain waves, but Editor John T. Kounis, explains how powerplane pilots can identify and fly near mountain waves.