Moose Creek - Dirt Strip with No Go-Around: Mooney in the Backcountry Part 3

This is the third video in a series about taking my Mooney M20C from Pittsburgh, PA to the Idaho Backcountry. In this episode, I finally land at some backcountry airstrips and try my hand at airplane camping. I land at Johnson Creek and then head over to Moose Creek the next day. Moose Creek is a real backcounty strip with no access other than by airplane or horse. At Moose Creek, the runway has no go around option due to a large mountain only a river's width from the end of it. After enjoying nature at Moose Creek, I narrowly avoid being stuck there, but eventually make my way to Cavanaugh Bay, ID where my generator failed before I could takeoff, leaving me stranded with a broke airplane once again. Tune in soon for the last episode covering the return flight home.

Instagram: Average_Aviator

[paulchristensen]

That departure out of Moose Creek was pretty dang amazing!

[kevincrocker]

Smiled thru the entire episode. Kid your passion is infectious! Can’t wait till the next update

[coloffroad]

Thanks for the memories. Been 50 years since I was in there. Miss it, but way too old.

[CJE.]

If you ever get back to Orofino, you ought to take a crew car and run up to Dworshack Dam. It's my backyard, basically. Pretty quick drive up to the Dam 15 to 20 minute drive. Glad you enjoyed your trip.

[falnightmere]

that shot of the stinson landing at Cavanaugh bay i know those people in the red and white pacer, white and blue murphy rebel, and white and blue clipper

[Stormcloakvictory]

Such a lovely Mooney, I really like these older low wing planes (Bonanza, Cherokee, Mooney's, Globe Swift etc) with polished aluminium like the old pre ww2 planes.

And then mixed with my other favourite part of aviation, back country flying and semi STOL.

IMO when you took that low turn at take off is the best Mooney footage on YouTube currently 👏👏

[billclisham]

You flew pretty much over us on your way into Cavanaugh bay. We are in St. Maries Idaho. Boyhood home of Pappy Boyington

[stoldrag]

I met you there, briefly at Cavanaugh. I was in the Clipper along with a PA18, a Pacer and a Rebel. I recall your mx issue and I think Dave(in the Pacer) helped you troubleshoot your electrical issue.

Cool to see your story here. You picked some great stops. Orofino is a very cool airport and a neat little town to overnight too.

[mepoweme]

Lived in Orofino, worked on the Dam 1970, S Got my privet and Commercial license there. Great Memories. Love your adventures.

[avormike]

AA - Moose Creek is great backcountry strip as is Johnson Creek! Took my RG182 several years ago and landed at the same two strips. Phenomenal experience for an east coast (FL) pilot. On the Moose Creek departure. Interesting choice. I had not considered that departure but seems viable. I did the departure up the “box canyon.” It is plenty long and wide to spiral up and gain altitude before you fly off to your next adventure. Thanks for sharing your experience.

[caverpilot]

It's SO pitch black in the Selway-Bitterroot! flying over at night is like IFR!! so many stars!!!

[WhatsupZak]

That takeoff footage was about as cool as it gets! Great video!

[RamblerMan]

Every since i watched the movie Mulitplicity, I just call everyone Steve. You're welcome, Steve. 😊

[caseyhutson]

Man that landing at Orofino was perfect!

[brucecuratola]

Your departures and arrivals are well thought out and well performed! You sure don’t act like a low time pilot!

[noelmasc.]

Brave young man, good show! Cant' wait to hear more.

[agenttex]

Thanks so much for sharing…. Brings back similar (Mooney) memories for me. Really enjoy listening!!! Pictures and videos are great…!

[JakeArey]

Loving the series. I have a 62 C that’s a pavement baby but this makes me want to get on some other surfaces!

[paratyshow]

Well BrYan was right about you, a natural story teller you are. Would love to run into you around a campfire or informal dinner table and just sit and listen. Please keep them coming!

[BumAviator]

Dang! I want to hear the rest of the story! That’s just about the same journey I want to take from South Dakota in my Cherokee 180.