High Sierra Fly-In Special Gallery

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The High Sierra Fly-In (HSF) is a popular gathering of approximately 200 airplanes, predominantly taildraggers, held on a remote dry lakebed known as Dead Cow Lake in the high country of Nevada.
  • Founded by Kevin Quinn, the event celebrates backcountry flying and embraces a DIY spirit, featuring activities like homemade fireworks and STOL drag races.
  • HSF attracts a diverse range of aircraft, from classic taildraggers and rare birds to kitbuilt planes and powered parachutes, all enjoying the vast landing surface of the lakebed.
  • Despite sometimes challenging weather with brisk winds, the event fosters a strong sense of community with attendees engaging in extensive "hangar flying" and communal activities.
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Sunset at the High Sierra Fly-In
The dry lake is a good surface for tying down light planes. Only one plane suffered damage from the winds on Thursday night, with gusts estimated at around 70 knots, and that was a result, reportedly, of a faulty rope and not the anchor. PHOTO: Deon Mitton
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