High Sierra Fly-In Special Gallery

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The High Sierra Fly-In (HSF) is a large annual gathering for backcountry aviators, attracting over 200 airplanes (predominantly taildraggers) and hundreds of people to a remote dry lakebed in Nevada.
  • The event celebrates a DIY spirit and a love for backcountry flying, welcoming diverse aircraft from kitbuilt planes to unique vintage models, all utilizing the vast dry lakebed as a landing surface.
  • Key activities include STOL (Short Takeoff and Landing) drag races, extensive "hangar flying" (socializing and sharing pilot stories), and communal camping, fostering a strong sense of community.
  • Despite occasionally challenging weather, including brisk temperatures and strong winds, the HSF offers a unique experience for aviation enthusiasts to connect and enjoy flying in a rugged, natural environment.
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High Sierra Fly-In
Despite weather that challenged many enroute to Dead Cow and prevented many others from coming, the 2017 event was very well attended, with more than 200 airplanes and several hundred people, not counting dune buggies and dirt bikes that stopped by the playa. PHOTO: Joey Myers
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