Hi, all- Longtime reader, first time poster.

As of recent, I have a Husky based out of KRDM.. Hoping someone has a recommendation for a dirt/turf/unpaved place or two in the area to occasionally do a few bounces or throw someone in the front seat for a circuit without worry about towers and pavement. I know there are a few state-maintained places like Mackenzie Bridge nearby, but one way in/one way out doesn't lend itself to tossing someone up front very well (in my mind, at least)

Any suggestions? Thanks!

-Charlie

Actually McKenzie Bridge is not a one-way strip for aircraft like a Husky, Super Cub, etc. Pretty easy strip unless it is windy, then watch out as you get below tree level.

Other dirt/grass strips are: Tokeetee State, Chukar Flats-more difficult, in the John Day canyon, Bull Run-more difficult, in the Deschutes canyon, Wapinitia-easy, Pine Hollow-easy but private (easy to get permission), several other private ranch strips that you will need permission.

A few more dirt/grass strips in the area are Beaver Marsh, Santiam Junction, Davis, and Owyhee Reservior further to the east. You're also not too far away from the Alvord Desert.

Of all the strips mentioned, I think Davis (near Mill City on the Santiam R.) is by far the easiest nice public grass strip to let new pilots get used to smaller grass strips. It is reasonably long, wide and smooth, with easy open approaches from both ends. Also I have never noticed wind or turbulence being an issue (knock on wood).

Prineville has an unofficial parallel 15/33 dirt runway, Kinzua, Silver Lake, Rager, Wakonda Beach, Lakeside, Powers, Toketee,

Thanks to all for a great list of places to check out this weekend. Will try to do my part and toss some photos and info on shortfield.com as I'm out exploring the local area..