Hells Canyon, located in the United States, offers pilots a unique opportunity to access some of the most remote and striking wilderness. Now released by BlackWood Studios for MSFS 2024, known for past releases such as Glenswinton Aerodrome, the scenery recreates several backcountry airstrips nestled along the Snake River and in the uplands, allowing pilots to experience both challenging and special adventures.
About Hells Canyon
Hells Canyon is a sixteen-kilometer-wide (ten-mile) canyon in the Western United States, sharing borders with the states of Oregon, Idaho, and Washington. The U.S. Forest Service (USFS) maintains various airstrips that allow access to Hells Canyon’s unique beauty along the Snake River. These airstrips are remote and challenging, and pilots should be experienced in backcountry flying and thoroughly prepared before attempting to land.
Unique Airstrips and Points of Interest
- Memaloose (OR): Serves as a gateway for aerial firefighting, and it offers access to hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities in the surrounding wilderness.
- Dug Bar (OR): It was the site where the Nez Perce people crossed the Snake River in 1877 during their forced relocation. The airstrip provides access to this historic area and is a popular spot for camping and exploring.
- Sluice Creek (OR): Directly east of Memaloose, Sluice Creek is now a protected site to aid the natural environment.
- Big Bar (ID): This is a key access point for backcountry enthusiasts and river users. Volunteers from the Idaho Aviation Association have maintained it over the years, ensuring its usability for pilots.
- Salmon Bar (OR): Known for its challenging conditions, this airstrip is located in a steep-walled canyon. It is recommended for experienced pilots due to its narrow runway and turbulent air.
- Cache Creek (OR): Known for its peaceful and remote setting, the approach at Cache Creek has the highest slope of all the airports in this package. This location is also a popular stopping point for summer activities, featuring a restaurant, picnic area, and boat docking.
- Pittsburg (OR): Serving as a gateway to the Snake River, it is often used by anglers and hikers. It is part of the network of airstrips that support recreational activities in the Hells Canyon region and hosts one of the largest campgrounds along the river.
- Temperance Creek (OR): This airstrip is tied to ranch operations and requires special permission for use. It is located near the Snake River and serves as an administrative site for the U.S. Forest Service.
- Lord Flat (OR): Built in 1943, this airstrip was constructed to provide quicker access to the remote area during emergencies and for administrative purposes. It is primarily used during hunting season and offers stunning views of the surrounding canyons.
- Hat Point Lookout (near Memaloose): Stunning views of the Snake River await there. This spot offers a peaceful and grounding contrast to the thrill of backcountry flying.
Highlighted Features
- Meticulously crafted river and land terraforming.
- Custom 3D-modeled buildings, detailed signs, and authentic props.
- Highly detailed and accurate lookout tower, complete with walkable access to the top.
- Miles of expertly modeled hiking trails and drivable roads.
- Dynamic realism with custom animated windsock objects.
- Beautifully modeled campgrounds in the wilderness.
Closing Notes
The scenery is retailed at Orbx’s website for approximately US$14.44 and is exclusively available for MSFS 2024. Its size is 741.36 MB when installed. If you would like to read more flight simulation news, do not hesitate to check out our Flightbeam’s KSFO Update article.
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