Site ideas for a big Western US soaring trip next season

[James Hogue]

So, it is raining outside and I haven't been soaring in a long time, so naturally I am thinking about soaring next season.... I'll bet I am not the only one.

The big plan is a soaring safari to the Western US next season. I may be able to take as long as 2+ months. I am looking for ideas for unique/new/underflown as well as classic soaring sites to try. And maybe other folk would like to hear ideas for such sites also, hence this post.

I fly a self-launcher (ASH-26E) so I don't need a towplane, but I do like the company (and buddy system) of other soaring pilots. I like to camp on the airfield in my simple truck camper (nice to have an electric power hookup). I will need to find a shower at least every few days, haha.

I would like to assemble a long list of possible sites, I'll be watching the weather and soaring conditions and deciding where to go based on what looks good at the time. And where fun folk and flying might be.

Here is where I have been on previous soaring trips, all of which were great fun and are on my do-again list:

Parowan Utah
Moriarty New Mexico
Montrose Colorado
Salida Colorado (although field elevation at 7500 ft is at, and on hot days above, my climb performance limits)
King Mountain Idaho (open next year, I hope)
Most of the Southern California desert sites, but many years ago....

Places that I have heard are great and want to try some day:

Ely Nevada
Tonopah Nevada
Nephi Utah
Boulder Colorado
Rifle Colorado
Logan Utah
Mackay Idaho
Kingman Arizona (hello Paul!)

Please post comments on these sites and primarily more site ideas, as well as info on any camps or meets you know about that might not make it into the SSA calendar. Or PM me if you don't want broad publication of these camps/meets, understandable. Include as much detail as you can! Thanks!

Cheers,
Jim J6

[Richard Pfiffner[_2_]]

On Sunday, December 29, 2019 at 10:11:27 AM UTC-8, Jim Hogue wrote:
> So, it is raining outside and I haven't been soaring in a long time, so naturally I am thinking about soaring next season.... I'll bet I am not the only one.
>
> The big plan is a soaring safari to the Western US next season. I may be able to take as long as 2+ months. I am looking for ideas for unique/new/underflown as well as classic soaring sites to try. And maybe other folk would like to hear ideas for such sites also, hence this post.
>
> I fly a self-launcher (ASH-26E) so I don't need a towplane, but I do like the company (and buddy system) of other soaring pilots. I like to camp on the airfield in my simple truck camper (nice to have an electric power hookup). I will need to find a shower at least every few days, haha.
>
> I would like to assemble a long list of possible sites, I'll be watching the weather and soaring conditions and deciding where to go based on what looks good at the time. And where fun folk and flying might be.
>
> Here is where I have been on previous soaring trips, all of which were great fun and are on my do-again list:
>
> Parowan Utah
> Moriarty New Mexico
> Montrose Colorado
> Salida Colorado (although field elevation at 7500 ft is at, and on hot days above, my climb performance limits)
> King Mountain Idaho (open next year, I hope)
> Most of the Southern California desert sites, but many years ago....
>
> Places that I have heard are great and want to try some day:
>
> Ely Nevada
> Tonopah Nevada
> Nephi Utah
> Boulder Colorado
> Rifle Colorado
> Logan Utah
> Mackay Idaho
> Kingman Arizona (hello Paul!)
>
> Please post comments on these sites and primarily more site ideas, as well as info on any camps or meets you know about that might not make it into the SSA calendar. Or PM me if you don't want broad publication of these camps/meets, understandable. Include as much detail as you can! Thanks!
>
> Cheers,
> Jim J6

Add Montague, CA to the list

Richard
www.craggyaero.com

[SoaringXCellence]

You might also consider Lakeview and the Alvord in Oregon. I had some good flights in Walla Walla Washington when the soring operation was open. Ephrata WA is also outstanding.

[[email protected]]

I’d plan my trip to be at Air Sailing Sports Contest, July 12-17. We always seem to have the best conditions I have encountered, year after Year! Great group that includes hard-chargers and neophytes, always friendly............I don’t believe we have ever had a protest filed in 30 years!
Come join us and enjoy great Sierra Soaring,
JJ

[Frank Whiteley]

On Sunday, December 29, 2019 at 11:11:27 AM UTC-7, Jim Hogue wrote:
> So, it is raining outside and I haven't been soaring in a long time, so naturally I am thinking about soaring next season.... I'll bet I am not the only one.
>
> The big plan is a soaring safari to the Western US next season. I may be able to take as long as 2+ months. I am looking for ideas for unique/new/underflown as well as classic soaring sites to try. And maybe other folk would like to hear ideas for such sites also, hence this post.
>
> I fly a self-launcher (ASH-26E) so I don't need a towplane, but I do like the company (and buddy system) of other soaring pilots. I like to camp on the airfield in my simple truck camper (nice to have an electric power hookup). I will need to find a shower at least every few days, haha.
>
> I would like to assemble a long list of possible sites, I'll be watching the weather and soaring conditions and deciding where to go based on what looks good at the time. And where fun folk and flying might be.
>
> Here is where I have been on previous soaring trips, all of which were great fun and are on my do-again list:
>
> Parowan Utah
> Moriarty New Mexico
> Montrose Colorado
> Salida Colorado (although field elevation at 7500 ft is at, and on hot days above, my climb performance limits)
> King Mountain Idaho (open next year, I hope)
> Most of the Southern California desert sites, but many years ago....
>
> Places that I have heard are great and want to try some day:
>
> Ely Nevada
> Tonopah Nevada
> Nephi Utah
> Boulder Colorado
> Rifle Colorado
> Logan Utah
> Mackay Idaho
> Kingman Arizona (hello Paul!)
>
> Please post comments on these sites and primarily more site ideas, as well as info on any camps or meets you know about that might not make it into the SSA calendar. Or PM me if you don't want broad publication of these camps/meets, understandable. Include as much detail as you can! Thanks!
>
> Cheers,
> Jim J6

Big Sky Soaring now has the Flying Y Airport south of Livingston, MT. Mission Mountain Glider Club Interest Group at Ronan, MT, has at least one self-launcher in the area. Both close to mountain soaring areas that need more exploring.

Frank Whiteley

[Dan Marotta]

Blanding, UT has great possibilities for the Canyon Lands area and it's
not hard to make it to the Wasatch going north and west.Â* Or you could
head east and pick up the Rockies pretty quickly.Â* There's a motor
glider based there, but I don't have contact information. I've flown out
of Cortez, CO with an ASW-24e over to Richfield, UT and back to Durango,
CO on two successive days around the 4th of July.Â* This was on a safari
with a friend (who flew one of the above flights) and originated on the
eastern slopes of the Rockies at Black Forest.Â* Safaris are great fun!

On 12/29/2019 12:34 PM, Frank Whiteley wrote:
> On Sunday, December 29, 2019 at 11:11:27 AM UTC-7, Jim Hogue wrote:
>> So, it is raining outside and I haven't been soaring in a long time, so naturally I am thinking about soaring next season.... I'll bet I am not the only one.
>>
>> The big plan is a soaring safari to the Western US next season. I may be able to take as long as 2+ months. I am looking for ideas for unique/new/underflown as well as classic soaring sites to try. And maybe other folk would like to hear ideas for such sites also, hence this post.
>>
>> I fly a self-launcher (ASH-26E) so I don't need a towplane, but I do like the company (and buddy system) of other soaring pilots. I like to camp on the airfield in my simple truck camper (nice to have an electric power hookup). I will need to find a shower at least every few days, haha.
>>
>> I would like to assemble a long list of possible sites, I'll be watching the weather and soaring conditions and deciding where to go based on what looks good at the time. And where fun folk and flying might be.
>>
>> Here is where I have been on previous soaring trips, all of which were great fun and are on my do-again list:
>>
>> Parowan Utah
>> Moriarty New Mexico
>> Montrose Colorado
>> Salida Colorado (although field elevation at 7500 ft is at, and on hot days above, my climb performance limits)
>> King Mountain Idaho (open next year, I hope)
>> Most of the Southern California desert sites, but many years ago....
>>
>> Places that I have heard are great and want to try some day:
>>
>> Ely Nevada
>> Tonopah Nevada
>> Nephi Utah
>> Boulder Colorado
>> Rifle Colorado
>> Logan Utah
>> Mackay Idaho
>> Kingman Arizona (hello Paul!)
>>
>> Please post comments on these sites and primarily more site ideas, as well as info on any camps or meets you know about that might not make it into the SSA calendar. Or PM me if you don't want broad publication of these camps/meets, understandable. Include as much detail as you can! Thanks!
>>
>> Cheers,
>> Jim J6
> Big Sky Soaring now has the Flying Y Airport south of Livingston, MT. Mission Mountain Glider Club Interest Group at Ronan, MT, has at least one self-launcher in the area. Both close to mountain soaring areas that need more exploring.
>
> Frank Whiteley

--
Dan, 5J

[John Foster]

On Sunday, December 29, 2019 at 12:34:32 PM UTC-7, Frank Whiteley wrote:
> On Sunday, December 29, 2019 at 11:11:27 AM UTC-7, Jim Hogue wrote:
> > So, it is raining outside and I haven't been soaring in a long time, so naturally I am thinking about soaring next season.... I'll bet I am not the only one.
> >
> > The big plan is a soaring safari to the Western US next season. I may be able to take as long as 2+ months. I am looking for ideas for unique/new/underflown as well as classic soaring sites to try. And maybe other folk would like to hear ideas for such sites also, hence this post.
> >
> > I fly a self-launcher (ASH-26E) so I don't need a towplane, but I do like the company (and buddy system) of other soaring pilots. I like to camp on the airfield in my simple truck camper (nice to have an electric power hookup). I will need to find a shower at least every few days, haha.
> >
> > I would like to assemble a long list of possible sites, I'll be watching the weather and soaring conditions and deciding where to go based on what looks good at the time. And where fun folk and flying might be.
> >
> > Here is where I have been on previous soaring trips, all of which were great fun and are on my do-again list:
> >
> > Parowan Utah
> > Moriarty New Mexico
> > Montrose Colorado
> > Salida Colorado (although field elevation at 7500 ft is at, and on hot days above, my climb performance limits)
> > King Mountain Idaho (open next year, I hope)
> > Most of the Southern California desert sites, but many years ago....
> >
> > Places that I have heard are great and want to try some day:
> >
> > Ely Nevada
> > Tonopah Nevada
> > Nephi Utah
> > Boulder Colorado
> > Rifle Colorado
> > Logan Utah
> > Mackay Idaho
> > Kingman Arizona (hello Paul!)
> >
> > Please post comments on these sites and primarily more site ideas, as well as info on any camps or meets you know about that might not make it into the SSA calendar. Or PM me if you don't want broad publication of these camps/meets, understandable. Include as much detail as you can! Thanks!
> >
> > Cheers,
> > Jim J6
>
> Big Sky Soaring now has the Flying Y Airport south of Livingston, MT. Mission Mountain Glider Club Interest Group at Ronan, MT, has at least one self-launcher in the area. Both close to mountain soaring areas that need more exploring.
>
> Frank Whiteley

You beat me to it, Frank. I've flown out of Flying Y. Greg Mecklenberg has a great thing going there!

I live in Ronan, and have yet to fly here, but have a tow plane tentatively lined up for this summer, so am planning to start flying the Mission Mountains, and beyond this summer. There was a group from WA that would come out here each summer on a club soaring safari, but they are no longer doing that. There is a guy with two motor gliders (PIK 20E and Dimona) in Polson, that flies here in the summer still. Hopefully I'll be able to post a few YouTube videos of this endeavor this coming year. If you make it out this way, let me know. We'll make sure you are "hooked up" with whatever you need.

[Waveguru]

Here's a video of one of our Alvord Desert pay out winch launches:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oP8bVgG8xJc&t=41s

Boggs

[Bret Hess]

On Monday, December 30, 2019 at 9:23:34 AM UTC-7, Waveguru wrote:
> Here's a video of one of our Alvord Desert pay out winch launches:
>
> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oP8bVgG8xJc&t=41s
>
> Boggs

Boggs, that's pretty cool to see the rope going to a little moving dot on the desert.

[Jim Hogue]

Wow, so much great info, thanks! I have enough site ideas for 3 or 4 seasons now!

My plans for this season are coming together, in particular I think I have obtained the all-important "kitchen pass" from the spouse. I had to offer up a 2 week break in the middle of the soaring trip, to visit family and friends in the west. Not a bad trade at all, actually win-win.

Thanks again, all.

Cheers,
Jim J6



On Sunday, December 29, 2019 at 12:11:27 PM UTC-6, Jim Hogue wrote:
> So, it is raining outside and I haven't been soaring in a long time, so naturally I am thinking about soaring next season.... I'll bet I am not the only one.
>
> The big plan is a soaring safari to the Western US next season. I may be able to take as long as 2+ months. I am looking for ideas for unique/new/underflown as well as classic soaring sites to try. And maybe other folk would like to hear ideas for such sites also, hence this post.
>
> I fly a self-launcher (ASH-26E) so I don't need a towplane, but I do like the company (and buddy system) of other soaring pilots. I like to camp on the airfield in my simple truck camper (nice to have an electric power hookup). I will need to find a shower at least every few days, haha.
>
> I would like to assemble a long list of possible sites, I'll be watching the weather and soaring conditions and deciding where to go based on what looks good at the time. And where fun folk and flying might be.
>
> Here is where I have been on previous soaring trips, all of which were great fun and are on my do-again list:
>
> Parowan Utah
> Moriarty New Mexico
> Montrose Colorado
> Salida Colorado (although field elevation at 7500 ft is at, and on hot days above, my climb performance limits)
> King Mountain Idaho (open next year, I hope)
> Most of the Southern California desert sites, but many years ago....
>
> Places that I have heard are great and want to try some day:
>
> Ely Nevada
> Tonopah Nevada
> Nephi Utah
> Boulder Colorado
> Rifle Colorado
> Logan Utah
> Mackay Idaho
> Kingman Arizona (hello Paul!)
>
> Please post comments on these sites and primarily more site ideas, as well as info on any camps or meets you know about that might not make it into the SSA calendar. Or PM me if you don't want broad publication of these camps/meets, understandable. Include as much detail as you can! Thanks!
>
> Cheers,
> Jim J6

[Tony[_7_]]

On Tuesday, January 14, 2020 at 11:27:05 AM UTC-5, Airport Bum wrote:
> Wow, so much great info, thanks! I have enough site ideas for 3 or 4 seasons now!
>
> My plans for this season are coming together, in particular I think I have obtained the all-important "kitchen pass" from the spouse. I had to offer up a 2 week break in the middle of the soaring trip, to visit family and friends in the west. Not a bad trade at all, actually win-win.
>
> Thanks again, all.
>
> Cheers,
> Jim J6
> On Sunday, December 29, 2019 at 12:11:27 PM UTC-6, Jim Hogue wrote:
> > So, it is raining outside and I haven't been soaring in a long time, so naturally I am thinking about soaring next season.... I'll bet I am not the only one.
> >
> > The big plan is a soaring safari to the Western US next season. I may be able to take as long as 2+ months. I am looking for ideas for unique/new/underflown as well as classic soaring sites to try. And maybe other folk would like to hear ideas for such sites also, hence this post.
> >
> > I fly a self-launcher (ASH-26E) so I don't need a towplane, but I do like the company (and buddy system) of other soaring pilots. I like to camp on the airfield in my simple truck camper (nice to have an electric power hookup). I will need to find a shower at least every few days, haha.
> >
> > I would like to assemble a long list of possible sites, I'll be watching the weather and soaring conditions and deciding where to go based on what looks good at the time. And where fun folk and flying might be.
> >
> > Here is where I have been on previous soaring trips, all of which were great fun and are on my do-again list:
> >
> > Parowan Utah
> > Moriarty New Mexico
> > Montrose Colorado
> > Salida Colorado (although field elevation at 7500 ft is at, and on hot days above, my climb performance limits)
> > King Mountain Idaho (open next year, I hope)
> > Most of the Southern California desert sites, but many years ago....
> >
> > Places that I have heard are great and want to try some day:
> >
> > Ely Nevada
> > Tonopah Nevada
> > Nephi Utah
> > Boulder Colorado
> > Rifle Colorado
> > Logan Utah
> > Mackay Idaho
> > Kingman Arizona (hello Paul!)
> >
> > Please post comments on these sites and primarily more site ideas, as well as info on any camps or meets you know about that might not make it into the SSA calendar. Or PM me if you don't want broad publication of these camps/meets, understandable. Include as much detail as you can! Thanks!
> >
> > Cheers,
> > Jim J6
If I could figure out how to start a new conversation on this POS interface, I would...TONOPAH - I see it come up from time to time. Is there any established tow availability or you need to set up a jamboree?

[AS]

> If I could figure out how to start a new conversation on this POS interface, I would...TONOPAH - I see it come up from time to time. Is there any established tow availability or you need to set up a jamboree?

I am using Google Chrome to read this forum and at least on my page, there is a BIG button '+ New conversation' located in the top left corner right under 'Groups'. Hope that helps.

Uli
'AS'

[Burt Compton - Marfa Gliders, west Texas]

Marfa Gliders Soaring Center near the Davis Mountains and Big Bend National Park in southwest Texas is NOT closing.

Downsizing, yes. Closing, NO!
I just sold a couple of gliders and my '46 J3 Cub and still own 7 aircraft, including two towplanes for year-round aerotows plus my three large hangars. As your Designated Pilot Examiner, checkrides for all FAA glider ratings including Initial CFIG. FREE checkrides for glider ratings at Marfa since 2016.

Contact me well in advance to make sure that I'm available to facilitate your fun!
I offer CFIG renewals or reinstatements, a Rusty Pilot course. flight reviews, towpilot endorsements, old-school thermaling secrets and more.
Just renewed our Wave Window to 30,000' msl with FAA / ATC. Marfa Airport elevation is 5,000' ASL.
Marfa, Texas, is the site of the 15th National Landmark of Soaring and where "The Sun Ship Game" was filmed at the 1969 US Nationals.

Let's discuss details and dates. Please don't show up unannounced.
E-mail Website: www.flygliders.com
Link to a short video of flying at Marfa: https://vimeo.com/67137849

Burt

[Ramy[_2_]]

On Friday, November 13, 2020 at 1:33:15 PM UTC-8, wrote:
> On Tuesday, January 14, 2020 at 11:27:05 AM UTC-5, Airport Bum wrote:
> > Wow, so much great info, thanks! I have enough site ideas for 3 or 4 seasons now!
> >
> > My plans for this season are coming together, in particular I think I have obtained the all-important "kitchen pass" from the spouse. I had to offer up a 2 week break in the middle of the soaring trip, to visit family and friends in the west. Not a bad trade at all, actually win-win.
> >
> > Thanks again, all.
> >
> > Cheers,
> > Jim J6
> > On Sunday, December 29, 2019 at 12:11:27 PM UTC-6, Jim Hogue wrote:
> > > So, it is raining outside and I haven't been soaring in a long time, so naturally I am thinking about soaring next season.... I'll bet I am not the only one.
> > >
> > > The big plan is a soaring safari to the Western US next season. I may be able to take as long as 2+ months. I am looking for ideas for unique/new/underflown as well as classic soaring sites to try. And maybe other folk would like to hear ideas for such sites also, hence this post.
> > >
> > > I fly a self-launcher (ASH-26E) so I don't need a towplane, but I do like the company (and buddy system) of other soaring pilots. I like to camp on the airfield in my simple truck camper (nice to have an electric power hookup). I will need to find a shower at least every few days, haha.
> > >
> > > I would like to assemble a long list of possible sites, I'll be watching the weather and soaring conditions and deciding where to go based on what looks good at the time. And where fun folk and flying might be.
> > >
> > > Here is where I have been on previous soaring trips, all of which were great fun and are on my do-again list:
> > >
> > > Parowan Utah
> > > Moriarty New Mexico
> > > Montrose Colorado
> > > Salida Colorado (although field elevation at 7500 ft is at, and on hot days above, my climb performance limits)
> > > King Mountain Idaho (open next year, I hope)
> > > Most of the Southern California desert sites, but many years ago....
> > >
> > > Places that I have heard are great and want to try some day:
> > >
> > > Ely Nevada
> > > Tonopah Nevada
> > > Nephi Utah
> > > Boulder Colorado
> > > Rifle Colorado
> > > Logan Utah
> > > Mackay Idaho
> > > Kingman Arizona (hello Paul!)
> > >
> > > Please post comments on these sites and primarily more site ideas, as well as info on any camps or meets you know about that might not make it into the SSA calendar. Or PM me if you don't want broad publication of these camps/meets, understandable. Include as much detail as you can! Thanks!
> > >
> > > Cheers,
> > > Jim J6
> If I could figure out how to start a new conversation on this POS interface, I would...TONOPAH - I see it come up from time to time. Is there any established tow availability or you need to set up a jamboree?

Tonopah is a great place to fly in the summer, similar to Ely, and the airport welcomes gliders, but there is no tow operation. There is usually 1 week camp every year organized by LVVSA club and occasionally other safaris.

Ramy

[Ted Frost]

On Sunday, December 29, 2019 at 11:11:27 AM UTC-7, Airport Bum wrote:
> So, it is raining outside and I haven't been soaring in a long time, so naturally I am thinking about soaring next season.... I'll bet I am not the only one.
>
> The big plan is a soaring safari to the Western US next season. I may be able to take as long as 2+ months. I am looking for ideas for unique/new/underflown as well as classic soaring sites to try. And maybe other folk would like to hear ideas for such sites also, hence this post.
>
> I fly a self-launcher (ASH-26E) so I don't need a towplane, but I do like the company (and buddy system) of other soaring pilots. I like to camp on the airfield in my simple truck camper (nice to have an electric power hookup). I will need to find a shower at least every few days, haha.
>
> I would like to assemble a long list of possible sites, I'll be watching the weather and soaring conditions and deciding where to go based on what looks good at the time. And where fun folk and flying might be.
>
> Here is where I have been on previous soaring trips, all of which were great fun and are on my do-again list:
>
> Parowan Utah
> Moriarty New Mexico
> Montrose Colorado
> Salida Colorado (although field elevation at 7500 ft is at, and on hot days above, my climb performance limits)
> King Mountain Idaho (open next year, I hope)
> Most of the Southern California desert sites, but many years ago....
>
> Places that I have heard are great and want to try some day:
>
> Ely Nevada
> Tonopah Nevada
> Nephi Utah
> Boulder Colorado
> Rifle Colorado
> Logan Utah
> Mackay Idaho
> Kingman Arizona (hello Paul!)
>
> Please post comments on these sites and primarily more site ideas, as well as info on any camps or meets you know about that might not make it into the SSA calendar. Or PM me if you don't want broad publication of these camps/meets, understandable. Include as much detail as you can! Thanks!
>
> Cheers,
> Jim J6
Having been a member of the Soaring Society of Boulder CO for 28yrs, I highly recommend that site! I also recommend Eagle Soaring airfield in Steamboat Springs CO, my current club. The Park mountain range is nearby and provides good lift during the May-September soaring season.
Ted Frost

[AS]

On Saturday, November 21, 2020 at 11:03:14 AM UTC-5, Ted Frost wrote:
> On Sunday, December 29, 2019 at 11:11:27 AM UTC-7, Airport Bum wrote:
> > So, it is raining outside and I haven't been soaring in a long time, so naturally I am thinking about soaring next season.... I'll bet I am not the only one.
> >
> > The big plan is a soaring safari to the Western US next season. I may be able to take as long as 2+ months. I am looking for ideas for unique/new/underflown as well as classic soaring sites to try. And maybe other folk would like to hear ideas for such sites also, hence this post.
> >
> > I fly a self-launcher (ASH-26E) so I don't need a towplane, but I do like the company (and buddy system) of other soaring pilots. I like to camp on the airfield in my simple truck camper (nice to have an electric power hookup). I will need to find a shower at least every few days, haha.
> >
> > I would like to assemble a long list of possible sites, I'll be watching the weather and soaring conditions and deciding where to go based on what looks good at the time. And where fun folk and flying might be.
> >
> > Here is where I have been on previous soaring trips, all of which were great fun and are on my do-again list:
> >
> > Parowan Utah
> > Moriarty New Mexico
> > Montrose Colorado
> > Salida Colorado (although field elevation at 7500 ft is at, and on hot days above, my climb performance limits)
> > King Mountain Idaho (open next year, I hope)
> > Most of the Southern California desert sites, but many years ago....
> >
> > Places that I have heard are great and want to try some day:
> >
> > Ely Nevada
> > Tonopah Nevada
> > Nephi Utah
> > Boulder Colorado
> > Rifle Colorado
> > Logan Utah
> > Mackay Idaho
> > Kingman Arizona (hello Paul!)
> >
> > Please post comments on these sites and primarily more site ideas, as well as info on any camps or meets you know about that might not make it into the SSA calendar. Or PM me if you don't want broad publication of these camps/meets, understandable. Include as much detail as you can! Thanks!
> >
> > Cheers,
> > Jim J6
> Having been a member of the Soaring Society of Boulder CO for 28yrs, I highly recommend that site! I also recommend Eagle Soaring airfield in Steamboat Springs CO, my current club. The Park mountain range is nearby and provides good lift during the May-September soaring season.
> Ted Frost


>> Eagle Soaring airfield in Steamboat Springs CO <<
Winch and self-launch only? No aerotowing or can that be arranged if needed?

Uli
'AS'

[[email protected]]

On Sunday, December 29, 2019 at 10:11:27 AM UTC-8, Airport Bum wrote:
> So, it is raining outside and I haven't been soaring in a long time, so naturally I am thinking about soaring next season.... I'll bet I am not the only one.
>
> The big plan is a soaring safari to the Western US next season. I may be able to take as long as 2+ months. I am looking for ideas for unique/new/underflown as well as classic soaring sites to try. And maybe other folk would like to hear ideas for such sites also, hence this post.
>
> I fly a self-launcher (ASH-26E) so I don't need a towplane, but I do like the company (and buddy system) of other soaring pilots. I like to camp on the airfield in my simple truck camper (nice to have an electric power hookup). I will need to find a shower at least every few days, haha.
>
> I would like to assemble a long list of possible sites, I'll be watching the weather and soaring conditions and deciding where to go based on what looks good at the time. And where fun folk and flying might be.
>
> Here is where I have been on previous soaring trips, all of which were great fun and are on my do-again list:
>
> Parowan Utah
> Moriarty New Mexico
> Montrose Colorado
> Salida Colorado (although field elevation at 7500 ft is at, and on hot days above, my climb performance limits)
> King Mountain Idaho (open next year, I hope)
> Most of the Southern California desert sites, but many years ago....
>
> Places that I have heard are great and want to try some day:
>
> Ely Nevada
> Tonopah Nevada
> Nephi Utah
> Boulder Colorado
> Rifle Colorado
> Logan Utah
> Mackay Idaho
> Kingman Arizona (hello Paul!)
>
> Please post comments on these sites and primarily more site ideas, as well as info on any camps or meets you know about that might not make it into the SSA calendar. Or PM me if you don't want broad publication of these camps/meets, understandable. Include as much detail as you can! Thanks!
>
> Cheers,
> Jim J6

We’re having an operation in the Methow Valley (Washington) June 19-27. One tow plane will be operating out of Twisp and 2-3 out of Methow State. I’ve flown out of Ephrata some. The two airports in the Methow valley are much better! Self launchers are encouraged to launch out of Methow State.

Charlie
AS

[Ted Frost]

On Saturday, November 21, 2020 at 5:59:44 PM UTC-7, AS wrote:
> On Saturday, November 21, 2020 at 11:03:14 AM UTC-5, Ted Frost wrote:
> > On Sunday, December 29, 2019 at 11:11:27 AM UTC-7, Airport Bum wrote:
> > > So, it is raining outside and I haven't been soaring in a long time, so naturally I am thinking about soaring next season.... I'll bet I am not the only one.
> > >
> > > The big plan is a soaring safari to the Western US next season. I may be able to take as long as 2+ months. I am looking for ideas for unique/new/underflown as well as classic soaring sites to try. And maybe other folk would like to hear ideas for such sites also, hence this post.
> > >
> > > I fly a self-launcher (ASH-26E) so I don't need a towplane, but I do like the company (and buddy system) of other soaring pilots. I like to camp on the airfield in my simple truck camper (nice to have an electric power hookup). I will need to find a shower at least every few days, haha.
> > >
> > > I would like to assemble a long list of possible sites, I'll be watching the weather and soaring conditions and deciding where to go based on what looks good at the time. And where fun folk and flying might be.
> > >
> > > Here is where I have been on previous soaring trips, all of which were great fun and are on my do-again list:
> > >
> > > Parowan Utah
> > > Moriarty New Mexico
> > > Montrose Colorado
> > > Salida Colorado (although field elevation at 7500 ft is at, and on hot days above, my climb performance limits)
> > > King Mountain Idaho (open next year, I hope)
> > > Most of the Southern California desert sites, but many years ago....
> > >
> > > Places that I have heard are great and want to try some day:
> > >
> > > Ely Nevada
> > > Tonopah Nevada
> > > Nephi Utah
> > > Boulder Colorado
> > > Rifle Colorado
> > > Logan Utah
> > > Mackay Idaho
> > > Kingman Arizona (hello Paul!)
> > >
> > > Please post comments on these sites and primarily more site ideas, as well as info on any camps or meets you know about that might not make it into the SSA calendar. Or PM me if you don't want broad publication of these camps/meets, understandable. Include as much detail as you can! Thanks!
> > >
> > > Cheers,
> > > Jim J6
> > Having been a member of the Soaring Society of Boulder CO for 28yrs, I highly recommend that site! I also recommend Eagle Soaring airfield in Steamboat Springs CO, my current club. The Park mountain range is nearby and provides good lift during the May-September soaring season.
> > Ted Frost
>
>
> >> Eagle Soaring airfield in Steamboat Springs CO <<
> Winch and self-launch only? No aerotowing or can that be arranged if needed?
>
> Uli
> 'AS'

[Eric Greenwell[_4_]]

Ted Frost wrote on 11/21/2020 8:03 AM:
> Having been a member of the Soaring Society of Boulder CO for 28yrs, I highly recommend that site! I also recommend Eagle Soaring airfield in Steamboat Springs CO, my current club. The Park mountain range is nearby and provides good lift during the May-September soaring season.
> Ted Frost

I prefer a paved airport for my ASH26E self-launcher, instead of Eagle Soaring's turf. Would
operating out of Steamboat Springs be a reasonable alternative? It has a great runway and low
activity, according to Airnav.

--
Eric Greenwell - Washington State, USA (change ".netto" to ".us" to email me)
- "A Guide to Self-Launching Sailplane Operation"
https://sites.google.com/site/motorgliders/publications/download-the-guide-1

[Ted Frost]

On Saturday, November 21, 2020 at 5:59:44 PM UTC-7, AS wrote:
> On Saturday, November 21, 2020 at 11:03:14 AM UTC-5, Ted Frost wrote:
> > On Sunday, December 29, 2019 at 11:11:27 AM UTC-7, Airport Bum wrote:
> > > So, it is raining outside and I haven't been soaring in a long time, so naturally I am thinking about soaring next season.... I'll bet I am not the only one.
> > >
> > > The big plan is a soaring safari to the Western US next season. I may be able to take as long as 2+ months. I am looking for ideas for unique/new/underflown as well as classic soaring sites to try. And maybe other folk would like to hear ideas for such sites also, hence this post.
> > >
> > > I fly a self-launcher (ASH-26E) so I don't need a towplane, but I do like the company (and buddy system) of other soaring pilots. I like to camp on the airfield in my simple truck camper (nice to have an electric power hookup). I will need to find a shower at least every few days, haha.
> > >
> > > I would like to assemble a long list of possible sites, I'll be watching the weather and soaring conditions and deciding where to go based on what looks good at the time. And where fun folk and flying might be.
> > >
> > > Here is where I have been on previous soaring trips, all of which were great fun and are on my do-again list:
> > >
> > > Parowan Utah
> > > Moriarty New Mexico
> > > Montrose Colorado
> > > Salida Colorado (although field elevation at 7500 ft is at, and on hot days above, my climb performance limits)
> > > King Mountain Idaho (open next year, I hope)
> > > Most of the Southern California desert sites, but many years ago....
> > >
> > > Places that I have heard are great and want to try some day:
> > >
> > > Ely Nevada
> > > Tonopah Nevada
> > > Nephi Utah
> > > Boulder Colorado
> > > Rifle Colorado
> > > Logan Utah
> > > Mackay Idaho
> > > Kingman Arizona (hello Paul!)
> > >
> > > Please post comments on these sites and primarily more site ideas, as well as info on any camps or meets you know about that might not make it into the SSA calendar. Or PM me if you don't want broad publication of these camps/meets, understandable. Include as much detail as you can! Thanks!
> > >
> > > Cheers,
> > > Jim J6
> > Having been a member of the Soaring Society of Boulder CO for 28yrs, I highly recommend that site! I also recommend Eagle Soaring airfield in Steamboat Springs CO, my current club. The Park mountain range is nearby and provides good lift during the May-September soaring season.
> > Ted Frost
>
>
> >> Eagle Soaring airfield in Steamboat Springs CO <<
> Winch and self-launch only? No aerotowing or can that be arranged if needed?
>
> Uli
> 'AS'
Correct, we use a winch which usually allows us to achieve almost 2,000'agl.. No towing available yet, though one of our members has indicated an interest in using his C182 for that purpose. Field elevation of 6,700'msl should work for your aircraft. As you can see from the photos on the Steamboat Springs Soaring Assn. (SSSA) website http://soarsteamboat.org, it's a beautiful setting with lots of good XC potential nearby.

[Ted Frost]

On Saturday, November 28, 2020 at 8:12:11 AM UTC-7, Eric Greenwell wrote:
> Ted Frost wrote on 11/21/2020 8:03 AM:
> > Having been a member of the Soaring Society of Boulder CO for 28yrs, I highly recommend that site! I also recommend Eagle Soaring airfield in Steamboat Springs CO, my current club. The Park mountain range is nearby and provides good lift during the May-September soaring season.
> > Ted Frost
> I prefer a paved airport for my ASH26E self-launcher, instead of Eagle Soaring's turf. Would
> operating out of Steamboat Springs be a reasonable alternative? It has a great runway and low
> activity, according to Airnav.
>
> --
> Eric Greenwell - Washington State, USA (change ".netto" to ".us" to email me)
> - "A Guide to Self-Launching Sailplane Operation"
> https://sites.google.com/site/motorgliders/publications/download-the-guide-1
Bob Adams airport, the municipal airport operated by the City, is ~2mi NE of Eagle Soaring airfield and offers a paved runway. As a new resident of Steamboat Springs I've only heard of one motorglider calling the pattern there. You're correct that activity there is light and self-launching shouldn't be a problem.

[John Good]

>Bob Adams airport, the municipal airport operated by the City, is ~2mi NE of Eagle Soaring airfield and offers a paved runway.
>As a new resident of Steamboat Springs I've only heard of one motorglider calling the pattern there.
>You're correct that activity there is light and self-launching shouldn't be a problem.

I trust the airport manager there is more hospitable than was the case ~12 years ago. It ranks as the second-worst treatment I've ever witnessed. We wound up moving, and made a couple of launches (the first ones in gliders, I expect) from what is now Eagle Soaring.

In terms of soaring possibilities, both these sites are first-rate.

[kinsell]

On 12/2/20 8:53 AM, John Good wrote:
>> Bob Adams airport, the municipal airport operated by the City, is ~2mi NE of Eagle Soaring airfield and offers a paved runway.
>> As a new resident of Steamboat Springs I've only heard of one motorglider calling the pattern there.
>> You're correct that activity there is light and self-launching shouldn't be a problem.
>
> I trust the airport manager there is more hospitable than was the case ~12 years ago. It ranks as the second-worst treatment I've ever witnessed. We wound up moving, and made a couple of launches (the first ones in gliders, I expect) from what is now Eagle Soaring.
>
> In terms of soaring possibilities, both these sites are first-rate.
>

I Haven't flown out of the municipal airport, but believe it's got lots
of private jets. Yampa Valley used to be a good alternative, but it's
got commercial traffic now.

Highly recommend Craig, good runway, friendly people, easy to get east
over Steamboat into North Park. Flew there a couple years ago.

[John Good]

> I Haven't flown out of the municipal airport, but believe it's got lots
> of private jets.

It has one 4450' runway at an elevation of almost 7000' - could be challenging for a decent percentage of private jets.


> Highly recommend Craig, good runway, friendly people

Craig gets two thumbs up. The scenery on a flight west from there to Dinosaur National Monument / Vernal UT should impress anyone.

[John Foster]

On Wednesday, December 2, 2020 at 6:28:11 PM UTC-7, John Good wrote:
> > I Haven't flown out of the municipal airport, but believe it's got lots
> > of private jets.
> It has one 4450' runway at an elevation of almost 7000' - could be challenging for a decent percentage of private jets.
> > Highly recommend Craig, good runway, friendly people
> Craig gets two thumbs up. The scenery on a flight west from there to Dinosaur National Monument / Vernal UT should impress anyone.

One consideration would be to download and fly potential locations on Condor. Most of the Western US is now covered by various maps/sceneries on Condor2. For MT that would include the Yellowstone and Ronan sceneries.

[John Foster]

On Tuesday, December 8, 2020 at 1:41:04 PM UTC-7, John Foster wrote:
> On Wednesday, December 2, 2020 at 6:28:11 PM UTC-7, John Good wrote:
> > > I Haven't flown out of the municipal airport, but believe it's got lots
> > > of private jets.
> > It has one 4450' runway at an elevation of almost 7000' - could be challenging for a decent percentage of private jets.
> > > Highly recommend Craig, good runway, friendly people
> > Craig gets two thumbs up. The scenery on a flight west from there to Dinosaur National Monument / Vernal UT should impress anyone.
> One consideration would be to download and fly potential locations on Condor. Most of the Western US is now covered by various maps/sceneries on Condor2. For MT that would include the Yellowstone and Ronan sceneries.

To update this some, Condor Club now has "NW Montana" and "Yellowstone Park" that cover parts of MT. There are other great sceneries that cover the Sierras, Cascades, and Great Basin/UT as well. Worth checking out.