Here's my trip report about Nate, Alec, Karen and I crossing the CO Rockies. Lots of mountain flying in beautiful Colorado.
On Thursday afternoon we departed southwest, with a quick stop at KFLY to top the tanks off.
Crossing Hayden Pass
From there we crossed the San Luis Valley and headed for Morning Shadows
Morning Shadows is a great strip tucked in a cool mountain valley. About the time we were taxing off the strip, Tom swung by in his Super Cub to say hi.
Tom and his buddy (I forget his name,
) showed us around Lionel's slice of heaven. It wasn't long after Tom left that the man himself showed up.
Nate and Lionel.
About dusk the rain started to fall, then light hail, then it dumped for hours. Lionel was generous enough to let us use his cabin, and we all chatted for a few hours. We couldn't thank him enough, not a great night to sleep in a tent.
The next morning we were welcomed with low clouds and it was apparent a early morning departure to Marble wasn't in the cards.
We waited a few hours and Tom flew over with his son (Who just had his first solo that morning!
Congrats ) in the Cub and said hi. Tom said the valley was clear and after some discussion we headed over to Hooper for a soak in the hot springs pool (http://www.sanddunespool.com/)I think they farm here.
Sand Dunes Hot Springs/ Hooper Strip
Nate landing at Hooper
This places was damn cool and exceeded my expectations ten fold. Great food, great 98° pool, great atmosphere, very clean. We will be back! (A quick call is all that is needed to make sure the farmers know to keep clear of the runway).
The Hooper strip with the Sangres/Sand Dunes in the background.
From there we flew back to Morning Shadows, but not without stopping at a high strip and having a stuck starter. All I can say is be prepared and keep your friends on speed dial (Thanks!). After a few hours, all was well and we were able to head back just in time for dinner and a wet drink.
On Saturday morning we took the long way to Marble via Creede and Lake City. Once again, a beautiful flight through some of Colorado's best scenery.
Creede, CO
Castle Lakes (Will be back to visit this one.)
The San Juan mountain range with a few 14ers touching the clouds.
Lake City, CO
Enroute to Marble (north of Blue Mesa Res.)
Cool shot of Nate with the Elk mountain range in the background.
My favorite mountain in Colorado - Capitol Peak (left).
From there we dropped down into Marble from the southeast, it felt good to be back.
Flight line
Beautiful L-19's
The Mush Cub
Let the stories begin
Nate and Alec checking out the Murphy Moose
Not your ordinary back country plane.
The new campsite is pretty sweet.
The BBQ dinner was terrific, not an empty stomach to be found.
Glen and Diane, our gracious hosts. Year after year they welcome people back to their private strip.
Cool shot of the moon coming up over the Crystal River.
A full moon and Gary's margs made for a good night.
Sunday morning departure was a bit like JC, lined up 6 deep waiting for T/O.
The flight home included Taylor Park, Cottonwood pass, a stop at KAPA for fuel, and then home sweet home.
Both Alec and Karen had a great trip and learned a few things about flying. It was great seeing everyone this weekend and the hospitality was over the top. And once again, thanks to those who helped and to those who were checking in on us.
Cheers,
Matt
Congrats on the healthy kiddo too!
