With my fellow-pilot friend Judy visiting from wet and gloomy Washington, it was imperative that I show her Arizona at its sunny February best.
We lifted off from Goodyear (GYR) at 8:00 am into sunshine and blue, blue skies. Perfect weather for flying. Payson (PAN) is located 45 minutes NE at the base of the Mogollon Rim, so we are climbing out of desert environment into Pine forests and – surprise – Snow!
We enjoyed a delicious breakfast at the Crosswinds Restaurant which included orange cranberry as a bread selection. Advertised as, “Home of the Million Dollar View”, both view and food were NOT overstated.
After a quick fuel stop at Show Low (SOW) for $4.95 per gallon AV Gas (yes, this is a very cheap price, these days). Tanks full to the brim, we turned direct north to Kayenta (047) in the Navaho Nation.
We talked to a pilot of a medical service King Air waiting for his passenger. I asked for a look inside.
Now it was time to reach our main goal for the day – Monument Valley.
From here all I can do is put up the photos and hope to give you just a hint of the feelings of elation we experienced flying among these icons of nature and Hollywood.
Approaching
Getting closer
Going Through
Elation!
Total trip: 8:00 am to touchdown back home at 6:10 pm. Time in the air 7.3 hours
Goal achieved. Arizona (and a bit of southern Utah) showed at their best.
Downwind at Goodyear, lit by sunset.
Great to hear from you again and, wow, what a spectacular flight! Gorgeous photos as always. Clearly, you are enjoying your new flying environment. Looking forward to seeing more!
ReplyDeleteAgree, a great flight!
ReplyDeleteLooks like a lot of fun. But you flew THROUGH those?
ReplyDeleteYup! Right through. That is part of the fun, getting close in situations where doing so can be done safely. This day that was possible, so we did it - repeatedly.
DeleteWOW! That's beautiful! What a great day.
ReplyDeleteAwesome pictures, as always!
ReplyDeleteI am so green with envy at the beautiful scenery surrounding you, I need a change of pace from the mid-atlantic flatlands and beach.
Gary, You ever get out west I'll show you some good places.
DeleteAwesome flight, we missed you at the PNWFF banquet, but Judy had pictures of your adventure on display.
ReplyDeletetwo of my favorite spots!! I visited at ground level of course....LOOKS great from the air...
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed this flight tour. You had wonderful weather and spectacular scenery and took great pic's. Thank You.
ReplyDelete