Backcountry Wings

A Must Experience for Everyone!

Living in Central Idaho is like being on the doorstep of the wilderness. From the numerous hiking trails just minutes from our homes to the world-class skiing, fishing, and backcountry flying opportunities that abound here, we are truly spoiled. Friedman Memorial Airport is a local gateway to the backcountry via bush plane and small backcountry planes.

Summer is the ideal time to explore the backcountry by plane. With many local pilots and companies that fly the backcountry, finding your way there isn’t too difficult — just a little extra pocket change or the right friend will do the trick. The River of No Return, a real Central Idaho gem also known as the Middle Fork of the Salmon, is a mecca for fly fishing, rafting and remote lodges accessible by backcountry landing strips.

Whether you’re hiring a company for a backcountry flight or you’re lucky enough to have befriended a backcountry pilot, this area is a must to explore if you’re visiting Central Idaho. We’ve compiled a shortlist of companies that will take you into the backcountry as well as a list of lodges where you may consider staying. If you’re thinking of floating the Middle Fork, book a river trip in late summer and you’ll have the opportunity to fly into this stunning country.

Enjoy a few images from a recent trip into Indian Creek — a remote landing strip along the Middle Fork. It’s quite an experience hugging the canyon walls while looking down at the pristine river as the pilot banks hard left to descend to the runway. For me, there was too much adrenaline coursing through my body to be scared.