Idaho backcountry flying has gotten complicated with all the YouTube videos and social media hype flying around. As someone who has put wheels down at Big Creek multiple times in different seasons, I learned everything there is to know about this strip. Today, I will share it all with you.
Quick Answer: Big Creek (U60) features a 3,655-foot gravel runway at 5,746 feet elevation in central Idaho. The strip operates year-round with ski plane access in winter. Standard operations: westbound landings (uphill), eastbound departures (downhill) on Runway 11/29. Facilities include a Forest Service guard station, camping area, and basic amenities. No fuel available – bring everything you need. Best for pilots with 50+ hours backcountry experience.
Runway Configuration and Conditions
The main runway measures 3,655 feet long and 80 feet wide. Gravel surface, maintained regularly by the Forest Service – they actually care about keeping this one usable. Field elevation is 5,746 feet which means density altitude calculations arent optional, theyre survival. The runway runs roughly east-west (designated 11/29) with approximately 3% upslope to the west.
Probably should have led with this, honestly: that slope is your friend. It aids westbound landings and eastbound departures significantly. Surface conditions vary seasonally – firmest in late summer, softer after spring snowmelt and fall rains.
Standard Approach and Landing
Inbound aircraft typically land Runway 29 (westbound, uphill) regardless of wind when practical. Overfly the strip at 1,000 feet AGL first – check the windsock, look for traffic, assess surface conditions. CTAF is 122.9. Enter a left pattern for Runway 29. Final approach descends into the valley with adequate terrain clearance if you stay on profile.
The upslope significantly aids deceleration. Most aircraft stop comfortably in 1,500-2,000 feet. Aim for the first third of the runway – no point in using up your safety margin before you touch down. Im apparently conservative by nature and Id rather have extra runway behind me than wish I had more ahead.
Departure Procedures
Departures favor Runway 11 (eastbound, downhill) when possible. The downhill slope provides substantial acceleration help. Taxi to the western turnaround area for full-length takeoffs. Calculate density altitude performance carefully before attempting departure – this is where accidents happen.
If youre not airborne by two-thirds down the runway, abort and reassess. Morning departures provide significantly better performance than afternoon operations. Temperature differences of 20-30 degrees create density altitude variations of 2,000+ feet. Thats what makes Big Creek challenging – conditions change dramatically throughout the day.
Facilities and Amenities
Big Creek offers more facilities than typical backcountry strips. The Forest Service guard station operates seasonally with rangers available for information. Designated camping areas accommodate aircraft camping – you can literally camp under your wing. Vault toilets exist near the camping area. Potable water comes from Big Creek but requires filtration.
No fuel available – plan accordingly. The nearest fuel by air is at McCall, approximately 40 miles northwest. The area is bear country, which I learned the hard way when one visited my campsite at 3 AM. Store food properly and carry bear spray.
Year-Round Access and Winter Operations
Unlike most Idaho backcountry strips, Big Creek operates year-round. Winter brings ski plane operations on the snow-covered runway. Temperatures commonly reach -20 to -40 degrees Fahrenheit. Engine preheating isnt optional – its mandatory. Survival gear isnt optional either. If your engine fails in winter, rescue is days away, not hours.
Aircraft Recommendations
Big Creek accommodates a wide range of aircraft. Typical visitors include Super Cubs, Cessna 172/180/182/185, Maules, Huskies, and larger aircraft like Cessna 206s and Beavers. The longer runway and maintained surface make it more forgiving than extreme strips like Johnson Creek. Tailwheel aircraft are strongly preferred though – nosewheel aircraft can handle it but youll work harder.
Remove wheel pants for gravel operations. Bring tie-down stakes and chains – afternoon winds can be significant. Pack comprehensive survival gear. A satellite messenger is essential – cell service doesnt exist out here.
Safety and Experience Requirements
While Big Creek is more forgiving than extreme strips, it still demands backcountry proficiency. Pilots should have 25-50 hours of mountain flying experience minimum. Take mountain flying training with a qualified instructor before attempting Idaho backcountry. Connect with experienced local pilots for advice and potentially an initial guided trip.
The combination of reasonable runway, good maintenance, and established facilities makes Big Creek an excellent introduction to Idaho backcountry flying – but it still demands respect, preparation, and proficiency.
Leave a Reply