The Flight Training Adventure of a Lifetime.
Expert, One-on-One Instruction
The rewards of backcountry flying are immense. Imagine flying over river canyons, mountains and deserts, then landing to hike, camp, or take in the view. Like other highly-regarded programs, our comprehensive training is syllabus based. Yet, unlike group seminars, our training is individually tailored for the skills, experience, and adventure you seek. Our location on the edge of the Idaho backcountry stretches every training dollar. Our close proximity to Boise's international airport makes travel easy. We are committed to making your training adventure a rewarding experience
See what others have to say: "Hey Fred I made it home last night around 5:00. I was thinking while I was putting the airplane in the hangar that even tho I have had the airplane for 11 years I don’t think I have ever felt so comfortable in it. I also know that after each day that passes that feeling will begin to fade! I just can’t stop thinking about the last few days. What a game changer that it has been. Thank you for all the knowledge that you shared with such enthusiasm but more importantly thank you for keeping us safe!!" ~ Dan from Arizona, Cessna 180J, September 2022
The Ultimate Training Venue
Our base in Cascade, Idaho offers the quickest possible access to Idaho's legendary backcountry airstrips. The environment here includes big, rugged mountains and deep river valleys. Dozen's of airstrips are available that provide everything from beautiful manicured grass to confined, no-go-around approaches demanding expert stick and rudder skills. See our Idaho Map for more.
We Use Your Aircraft
Our backcountry instruction services are in high demand and training dates are limited. We've therefore decided to focus our 2025 training efforts by flying with existing aircraft owners rather than offering our aircraft for this use. Our hope is to reduce accidents and encourage responsible use by those already equipped, but not yet trained to operate safely in mountain, canyon and backcountry environments.
Experienced in Many Types
Tailwheel, tricycle and retractable; the Idaho backcountry offers safe and enjoyable opportunities for many aircraft types and variants. Aircraft we've flown and trained in include:
- Aeronca, Aviat, Beechcraft, Bellanca, Cessna, Cubcrafter, Glastar, Just, Kitfox, Luscombe, Maule, Piper, Rans, Stinson, Taylorcraft, Vans, Zlin and more...
Backcountry Training as Fun as it is Instructive
Custom-tailored, multi-day training programs are designed for clients looking to gain the confidence and skills necessary to make their future backcountry adventures safe and enjoyable. We're keen on sharing the outdoor recreation opportunities each airstrip represents. Together, with instructor Fred Williams, clients create a training plan and then proceed with ground and flight training over the reserved days. Clients book a three or four day session and sometimes request itineraries that include stays and meals at one or more backcountry lodges. Flight Reviews can be included in your training. A training day is typically five to six hours in duration, with three to five of those hours in flight.
- Instruction Cost: Three Day Session $2400, Four Day Session $3200.
- Available 2025 Session dates are as follows:
May 21-23,May 25-27,May 29-31,June 2-5,June 7-10,June 12-14,June 16-19,June 27-30,Jul 2-4,July 6-9,July 11-14,July 16-18. (January 27 update: additional dates may be added in July, see next.) - Click here if you'd like to be notified of any date additions or cancellations.
- A 50% deposit is required to secure your session date.
- Clients are responsible for all lodging costs when training includes overnight stays at backcountry lodges.
Space is Limited and Reservations Required. Contact Us Today!
Our backcountry training is in high demand and requires an early commitment. Therefore we encourage you to contact us as soon as possible.
We adhere to and support the Code of Conduct outlined by the Recreational Aviation Foundation. We fervently hope to make you an advocate as well and will donate 1% of the proceeds from any backcountry training you book to the RAF.