Rustler Canyon

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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.

Marc Lassaux
2 years ago in a ICP Savannah S with 8.00-6 tires

No change from other recent reports. Great area.

2 Likes , 0 Comments

Marc Lassaux
2 years ago in a ICP Savannah S with 8.00-6 tires

Landed at Rustler Canyon today. In good shape and no major change from recent previous reports. Beautiful area. Would be fun sometime to camp just to the northwest in the canyons.

3 Likes , 0 Comments

Sam Patrick
2 years ago in a C185 with 29” tires

Usable runway is much wider than the description, however probably a bit shorter. Surface seems to have been dragged with something in the not so distant past, but has a lot of small bumps similar to brake bumps that form on dirt roads. Surface solid and in good condition.

2 Likes , 0 Comments

Marc Lassaux
2 years ago in a ICP Savannah S with 8.00-6 tires tires

Runway and parking area in good shape. The recent rains have firmed it up some. Beautiful area.

3 Likes , 0 Comments

Marc Lassaux
2 years ago in a ICP Savannah S with 8.00-6 tires

The SW edge of the runway seems a little smoother as opposed to the NE edge from vegetation clearing. Amazing spot. Would be fun to try to hike down to river which looks like it is about 4 miles.

2 Likes , 0 Comments

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