Being on the back end of my 50's and kids well on there way, I'm looking for a new challenge. Getting my
pilots license should keep me out of trouble for a while. After several trips out west and a couple to AK, I desire to see more of the great outdoors. I enjoy hunting, fishing, backcountry and mountain travel. This forum looks like the place for help in safely getting it done. Thanks ahead of time.

Where at in Ohio?
Welcome
Dave

Welcome.

Sounds to me like you are an "Adrenaline Junky"...? Late 50's, a mere "Youngster"....I ride MC with a bunch of guys in the late 70's, first liar ain't got a chance....!! Then when things get boring, we go airport hopping in the Mtns, looking for a lunch spot...!! Winter is around the corner and we dusting off our skiis too. Mtns got "Dusted" with snow this last weekend. We like to watch the first mtn Snows, like the first leaves in the spring....!! Dave B

Welcome to BCP! I ended up being a "late Bloomer" myself. After soloing in college, it was 35 years before I logged another hour in the air. They say flying is like riding a bicycle, but I seemed to only remember stuff that got me in trouble.... For me the process of getting my PPL at age 57, buying a plane (the long suffering, faithful, straight tail 172 "Old Bilious" ) has been an incredibly positive experience! The process is not without frustration and potential pitfalls, however. Feel free to PM me for no cost advice and rants. I could post it here, but the even tempered, good natured folks here can only stand so much

Dave B, Sounds like you run with a bunch of outlaw's and you guys have a lot of fun. Great to here your still going at 70's.70 is new 40! Gives me hope I have more than a few years to enjoy it. Jealous of you location. Highest peak in Ohio 1,550' . Don't know what MC is?

Zach How has your 172 worked out for BackCountry travel?

MC = Motorcycles.... I ride a Honda Goldwing. We are going for a mtn ride on Friday, Colo Spgs, Garden of Gods, Cripple Creek, Victor, Bailey, CO and home, maybe 250 miles. Dave B

I've been to the usual North Idaho strips, usually by myself and light. In the Mornings. I don't camp, so it's just sightseeing and having fun. As has been said here many times, you can get a stock 172 into lots of places, but maybe not get out so well. Moving to Idaho 30 some years ago was the major motivator to start flying again. It has been way worth it. I was very lucky to find a few friends who taught me the basics. It is good to keep in mind that even the "easy" back country strips eat a plane every once in a while.

Have you been able to do any mods to help?

Sent a pm.