Backcountry Bonanza
Want a little more excitement on your flying vacation? Enjoy the beautiful Rockies and the backcountry strips of Idaho while getting a taste of the true, unvarnished West. You will sleep in rustic lodges (perhaps a tepee) and enjoy the alpine splendor of Idaho, Montana and Wyoming. Your down time will include horseback riding and flyfishing, staple activities in these parts. You may not recognize any of the destination names on the itinerary, in fact we hope you don't. The Backcountry Bonanza was designed to highlight the simple, raw experience of the Rocky Mountain West. While mountain training isn't necessary for participation, we offer a Mountain Flying Clinic ahead of the tour, for those who want some high-altitude training before departure.
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Day 1, Saturday
Arrive Grand Junction by 1:00 pm, transfer to Hawthorn Suites Hotel in charming downtown Grand Junction. There will be a general Tour Briefing at 2:00 pm, followed by a Flight Briefing at the hotel. Welcome dinner with fellow pilots and companions that evening. B
Day 2, Sunday
We will depart this morning for Smiley Creek, ID, the most beloved backcountry airstrip in the West. After checking into your lodge room/cabin/tepee, we will enjoy lunch at the restaurant (their milkshakes are renowned nationwide!), followed by an exciting raft trip on the Salmon River. Rafting and Dutch-oven dinner provided by Sawtooth Adventure Company. B/L/D
Day 3, Monday
The group will enjoy a two-flight day through the Idaho backcountry. Our first destination is McCall for a fuel stop, followed by a spectacular flight into West Fork Lodge. We will enjoy two nights at this wonderful lodge in the beautiful Bitterroot Mountains. You'll love the afternoon horseback ride and the peace and quiet of this serene setting. B/L/D
Day 4, Tuesday
Free day to enjoy this beautiful country as you wish, which might include more flying (this area is a haven for backcountry strips!), hikes or other activities arranged through the Lodge.
Day 5, Wednesday
After breakfast we'll fly to Orofino, Idaho the "town for of all seasons" at the base of Idaho's panhandle. Lewis and Clark built canoes here before continuing their journey into the Columbia River system. Our Lodge at the River's Edge sits alongshore the scenic Clearwater River. Upon arrival, we will have lunch on "The Edge" right next door, then allowing free time for a stroll through town or along the river. B/L
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Day 6, Thursday
We leave Idaho for historic Ennis, Montana, population: 1,000 people, 11,000 trout. Here you are scenically placed in the Madison River Valley, surrounded by three ranges of the Rocky Mountains. After checking into the hotel, we'll process our fishing licenses, then make our way to Virginia City for dinner and the popular Brewery Follies. B/L/D
Day 7, Friday
The only flying today will involve fish!. Try your arm at fly-fishing on the famous Madison River. Local guides will provide the boats, gear and instruction for you to enjoy a day on this beautiful river. Even if you don't catch a prize trout, you will love the beauty of a day on the river. L
Day 8, Saturday
Fly to Buffalo, Wyoming, the "real" Old West. You'll love this quaint town and summertime charm. After arrival we will get a flavor of local history at the Jim Gatchell museum, and leave enough time for you to take a dip in Wyoming's largest outdoor swimming pool in Washington Park. You'll love your room at the historic, Occidental Hotel, where we will also enjoy a scrumptious dinner. B/D
Day 9, Sunday
Return to Grand Junction through the scenic backcountry of Wyoming and northwestern Colorado. Check in to Hawthorn Suites, and evening Farewell Dinner and slide show. B/L/D
Day 10, Monday
Breakfast in hotel; shuttle service to airport as needed. Please let us know if additional room nights are needed. B
PLEASE NOTE: Weather conditions may affect this itinerary. Please see the weather information on our FAQ page for more information regarding weather delays.
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