Rustler Canyon

Write an Airstrip Report

Download Content Pack

New FlightShare

Airstrip Info

Frequency	122.90
Elevation	4669 ft
Lat/Long	38.2724, -109.7263 38° 16.344' , -109° 43.578'
Runway 13/31	1500 ft x 20 ft Dirt Road Rwy 13 Uphill 0.4%
Ownership	SITLA

Weather

See more at the National Weather Center

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!

Information updated December 7, 2022 @ 9:42pm

Description: Sitting at the base of the Needles Overlook Rustler Canyon is one of the closest airstrips to the Needles District of Canyonlands National Park. An intense 4x4 trail named Lockhart Basin connects Moab to the Needles District and runs along the base of the canyon. The road passing through the airstrip heads out to Newberry Butte Overlook which is part of the Indian Creek Wilderness Study. A section of the Hayduke Trail which spans from Zion to Arches National Park can be accessed from here. In the evening the light on the cliffs can offer a spectacular photo opportunity. Please be cognizant of the proximity to the park areas.

Runway: Generally the winds are favorable here even if the surrounding areas are not. The runway orientation is well suited for the prevailing winds. Each end has a turn around that will accommodate most type aircraft. The ground is normally firm and smooth enough that high float tires are not required. Slight ruts in the middle of the runway on both ends but firm on either side.

Parking: Parking at the midpoint. The ground here is firm and flat and offers a good camping location. No cell phone coverage.

Approach: Nothing over complicated here. This is shared use with a road and a good runway survey is prudent.

William Lipscomb
1 year ago in a PA-18 with 31” tires

In good shape. Somewhat soft with more rain coming.

2 Likes , 0 Comments

Josh Kelson
1 year ago in a PA-18 SuperCub with 31 tires

Nice little spot and very scenic flight. Runway was in great condition. On a bit of the softer side but nice condition.

1 Like , 0 Comments

Hod (Harold) Dahl
1 year ago in a Pa-18 with 31 tires

Runway is in good condition with some minor erosion toward the south end of 13 after the runway gets narrower. Nice spot!

1 Like , 0 Comments

William Lipscomb
2 years ago in a PA-18 with 31” tires

Great camping spot.

4 Likes , 0 Comments

Joseph Barrett
2 years ago in a Cessna 140 with 8.50x6 tires

The runway was in great shape. I walked it and threw as many large rocks off of it as I could find. My guess is the cows keep kicking them onto the runway. With that being said, if you’ve flown in Utah you know that cow activity on the runway is not uncommon. That stands true for this strip as there were about 3 dozen cows spread out around the strip. I also would agree with the previous post that discussed the runway not necessarily being as long as stated. You do still have a no less than 2000’ of usable though which should be plenty for most.

2 Likes , 0 Comments

No recreational activities for Rustler Canyon yet! Add one now!

Make your Flight Plan at SkyVector.com

We haven't written a history for this airstrip yet. If you would like to provide us with some information about this strip, please contact us today!