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Airstrip Info
| Frequency | 122.90 |
|---|---|
| Elevation | 4775 ft |
| Lat/Long |
38.4867, -110.915 38° 29.202' , -110° 54.9' |
| Runway 7/25 |
1590 ft
Dirt |
| Ownership | SITLA |
Weather
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Backcountry airstrips are inherently dangerous. It is the sole responsibility of the Pilot in Command to ascertain airstrip conditions prior to use. Be certain to consider environmental, aircraft, and personal factors when determining suitability.
Use of the airstrips is at the sole discretion of the Pilot in Command. Fly safe!
Description: If you’re still waiting on a space flight to Mars, Selenite may offer a preview of a similar landscape and remoteness. Just outside of the San Rafael Swell this is just a short flight from Hidden Splendor. At one point this must have been a busy mine with three runways of which two are still open, useable, and in great shape. Mining artifacts still remain scattered at the east end of the strip and with a short hike it is possible to explore parts of the Morrison Formation.
Runway: A large washout to the east has shortened the main runway. It can be soft here in the spring and fall frost heaves but at other times can be hard as concrete.
Approach Considerations: This strip offers a landing location during higher winds when other strips are too turbulent. Evidence of UTV traffic can be seen here frequently so a good landing survey should be preformed.
Parking: Most the airstrip could be used as parking. A small desert oasis-looking area to the east could offer an interesting place to camp. Limited to no cell coverage.
This is a pretty cool strip to check out if you haven’t done so already. The strip itself consisted of soft loose dirt, fossilized sea shells, and of course the selenite crystals. The previous reports still stand. There are ruts in the western end of the main runway and major water runoff on the eastern end. The crosswind runway has some deep depressions where water has pooled and should be noted if attempting to use. Its also worth noting, the main runway was pretty soft and I would highly recommend high float or tundra tires if landing here.
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