By Rod Kunkel
Hi! My name is Rod Kunkel. I’ve been a member of the AZ Pilots Association for about 5 years. My wife Jackie and I own a Cessna 182 based at Falcon Field (Jackie flies with me on days that I can guarantee no turbulence and smooth landings). My typical flights are within an hour or two for breakfast or lunch, but I really enjoy day/weekend trips to interesting locations in and near Arizona. So…
I volunteered to coordinate weekend getaways for our group! My intent is to coordinate a variety of trips (some day trips, some overnights) to interesting locations within a couple hours flying time of Phoenix. My goal is roughly one per month or so. I also plan to write de-briefs after each trip to include in our monthly newsletter.
Here’s a list of places I have in mind for potential getaways. I would appreciate input if there’s ones you particularly like, or if you have ideas for other getaways not listed here. You can provide feedback to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Potential Day Trips
Pinal Air Park (MZJ): Tour of facilities, large aircraft in various states of repair, storage, salvage.
Yuma Territorial Prison (NYL): Historical museum, prison dates to pre-Arizona statehood.
Pima Air and Space Museum (TUS): One of the best aviation museums in the country.
Fort Huachuca (FHU): I honestly don’t know that much about this, but know you can tour the facility.
Lowell Observatory (FLG): Observatory (where Pluto was discovered!) on hill near downtown Flagstaff.
Potential Weekend Trips
Palm Springs Tramway (PSP): Take tramway to top of mountain ridge. Maybe some hiking in the Mount San Jacinto area. Also lots of shops, restaurants, and hotels in town.
Grand Canyon (GCN): Spend a good amount of time staring into / across the canyon. Maybe some hiking along the Rim trail or part-way down Bright Angel trail.
Glen Canyon / Antelope Canyon (PGA): Tour Glen Canyon Dam. Hike into Antelope Canyon (or another slot canyon). Several restaurants and hotels in Page.
Bisbee / Queen Mine (P04): Tour historic Queen Mine. Lots of shops, restaurants, and hotels in Bisbee.
Thanks in advance for your input!