Utah Back Country Pilots has sent out a warning to it's members that they wish distributed to all back country pilots. After talking to some members that were there the strip will be better than it has been in years once it gets a little moisture to settle the powdery dirt but until then it is unsuitable for any nose wheel aircraft and many tail draggers. The text of their warning follows.

Warning! Warning! Mineral Canyon is VERY SOFT.
Updated: Saturday, October 27, 2007

Thanks to some dedicated UBCP members that drove their trucks and average of 3 hours, Mineral Canyon airstrip has had a major and long overdue rehabilitation. The strip was cleared of the summer weed growth and smoothed with the aid of tractors. Some drainage issues were addressed in hopes that the ponding of water on the strip after moderate rains could be corrected. A new windsock pole and frame was set and a new sock should be flying by early next week. However the airstrip is VERY, VERY soft and UBCP advises aircraft to use EXTREME caution or perhaps not use the strip until some fall moisture can settle the deep powdery dust. The strip is back to 60' wide and the camping area on the east side near the fire pit is in fine shape. The old parking area on the river side (west) of the strip has some NEW drainage ditches and water-bars across it so it should be avoided. Please use the east side. Contact UBCP for updates on the condition of Mineral Canyon.

Rob,

Thanks for passing this along. It's great to hear that it has gotten a makeover.

Anyone been out to Ibex lately? I'm thinking of wandering down there in a few days. Anyone know if that area has gotten any of the rain that has moved through?

Just got an email from UBCP

They have closed Mineral Canyon until it has gotten enough moisture to firm up the dust. Gary

Kind of off topic, but I'll put it here since I asked about it. I made it down to Ibex last week. It was nice and dry and a lot of fun. If they don't get any rain out of this next storm, I'll be headed down that way next week.

The following warning is from the Utah Back Country Pilots Website. I talked to one person who over flew the strip and he said the mud looked like pudding.

Warning! Warning! Mineral Canyon is STILL CLOSED! Updated: Saturday, December 29, 2007

An overflight was made of Mineral Canyon airstrip today, and it was observed that there was significant moisture showing on the surface in places as ice, snow and snowmelt. The bare spots of the surface looked like DEEP mud. The "X's" remain in place for the time being. It is recommended that no landings be made. UBCP Scout