I have noticed from time to time that someone will recommend that people wanting to fly backcountry get some instruction. I can't agree with that more. I have never read anyones experiences from doing so on this site. I will offer my experiences with the hope that it may encourage some that haven't, to participate in atleast one mountain flying class. I have been interested in backcountry flying for quite awhile, but only started to act on it a few years ago. I bought a plane and modified it with the intentions of having a plane that would be relatively safe to fly in the backcountry. I bought and read everything I could find on the subject. The next step was to educate myself with some practical experience/class time. In doing so I figured that it added something like 10 years to my available time to fly backcountry. The reasoning behind that was that I could spend that long learning how to fly backcountry properly, hopefully. Not to mention the possibility of busting up a plane and/or injuring myself or others. So last year I took the basic class from Lori McNichols out of McCall Idaho. I don't think that you necessaily have to get the instruction from her, but she does run a top class operation with a great team of instructors. It was very interesting and a lot was learned. This year I took the advanced class in Utah and it really tied things together. I realize that I still have a lot to learn, but my confidence level is up about 500%. I can get into 1000' strips and be very comfortable doing it(always with favorable conditions). I know well in advance if I am going to make the strip, and therefore if things aren't right, I have lots of time to go around and do it again. But what they teach you works so well, that sofar, I haven't had to do a go around. Most of the strips I go in and out of have an elavation of atleast 5000' and generally pretty hot in the summer. I know that it isn't cheap, but I think the experience is priceless. You could probably put the basic course on a credit card for $50.00/mo. One day or less of work a month should cover that. A small concession I think. I think of all the monies that I have spent for flying, this was probably the smartest money I have spent. I hope this helps. Gary

Gary,

Point well taken. I am always amazed at how much money pilots will spend on an airplane or a hamburger on a Saturday, and yet they utterly refuse to spend a dime on recurrent or advanced training.

let me add to your list an Emergency Maneuver Training Course from Rich Stowell, in Santa Paula, CA. Go to Richstowell.com Great instructor, and he'll teach you a lot about aerodynamics that they sorta failed to mention in your private and commercial courses......

THAT is basic airmanship.

THEN, go get some mountain training.

THEN spend enough money on gas and recurrent training to stay current.

MTV