Glider Tows at Salida, CO

Several friends (old and new) and I just spent eight days at Salida,
Colorado flying in wave and thermals. The flying conditions and scenery
were simply the greatest and I wanted to put in a plug for the airport
and the towing.

First, the airport: The terminal has a pilot room, a couple of couches,
a TV with VHS and DVD (and plenty of movies), a wood burning stove,
continuous weather display, etc. Outside you'll find water (for your
wings), tie down straps, paved parking, etc., all for $3.00/day
($25/month). There are also two(!) airport courtesy cars, and the
airport has a security fence, to which you'll receive the entry code
when you arrive. There's also oxygen available on the field, though
Miguel and I rented a large bottle and filled up everyone who needed it
at no charge.

Towing: Steve Bush provided the tows with a 260 HP Pawnee which is
equipped with a Tost release system. Steve is an experienced tow pilot
who lives within two miles of the airport and he arrived each day around
1100 to see what our daily needs would be and stayed until all who
wished to fly were up and on course. Rates are similar to what we pay
at Moriarty, NM.

The area: Just look it up! Our wives were never bored given all there
is to do in the area. I managed to hike with my wife at altitudes up to
10,000' MSL on two occasions. Fourteen thousand foot plus hikes are
possible, but I'm just not that much into pain...

--
Dan Marotta