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 June 9, 2024 @ 12:59pm
Description: Currently 1100ft usable. A high altitude mesa covered in animal sign this is a very unique airstrip. The views are a cross between high alpine Colorado and deep canyon Utah. High density altitude, winds, and limited late go around options make this airstrip a hazardous place especially for a beginner. Camping would be spectacular here especially during the warmer months. It might be advisable to consider the possibility of bear and mountain lion activity here. The habitat is well suited for big game and the hungry critters that follow.
Runway: Landings should be made towards the east after the road crossing. The ground is rough from clumps of grass and dried animal tracks. Higher float tires are highly suggested. This is a considerable uphill airstrip and the relative wind favors a tailwind on landing. Late go arounds will not be possible! Landing downhill is probably not an option. Survey the runway downhill or at a comfortable altitude being mindful of aircraft performance.
Approach Considerations: Winds and density altitude are strong factors that should be considered before landing. Late go arounds will not be possible and landing surveys should be done at altitude or flying downhill.
Parking: Plenty of parking and camping opportunities here. The ground is flat towards either end of the airstrip and most of the mesa is covered in grass. Good cell phone coverage.
David Gallant
visited
2 months agoin a Exp PA11with 29 Bushwheels tires
Strip is in great shape and smoother than most everything else out there. Road to the northwest has been freshly graded so be aware of the lip at the northwest side of the strip. Landed both directions, but uphill to the southeast suggested when winds support it. No windsock found on the white pole in the tree north side midfield.
Marc Lassaux
visited
8 months agoin a ICP Savannah Swith 21 tires
Fairly bumpy runway, the winds can be tricky on Steamboat. There’s a berm on the southern side of the runway that isn’t easily visible because of the vegetation. I landed heading SE to the east of the road that cuts across the runway. A beautiful spot.
Bumpy runway, but very doable with larger tires. Touch down just past the road that bisects the runway. Land uphill, takeoff downhill. Beautiful views to the northwest from the strip. Big downdrafts are possible on takeoff which can be unnerving, but you're departing downhill and into descending terrain which is comforting.
