Chicago to Sacramento in an Arrow?

[mocaman]

I have a friend that is getting ready to do this trip. I was wondering what route some of you would choose? Any ideas or tips? Thanks

 

[CalifDan]

Weather and time

This time of year it depends on weather and time. Coming straight across you can go at or near Rapid City - Casper - Salt Lake - Reno - Sacramento. You might have to sit a few days along the way wating out a storm or two.

If you want to drop south you will probably have fewer weather issues. You can go down to New Mexico and cross to Phoenix and then towards Palmdale and up to Sacramento. Depending on the altitude requirements you can go as far south as El Paso and then cross everything at under 10K.

If you are IFR capable you just need to make sure the weather is within your capabilities. North would probably be a bigger problem.

CalifDan

 

[mocaman]

Dan, thanks for the input. I will look over that route and have my friend look at it as well. He is Instrument rated, but not up to par on skills. He wants to make the whole trip VFR. The main thing he is scared of is crossing the mountains, and weather.

 

[ajhbubs84]

Great flight!!

Sounds like it is going to be a great adventure. This time of year I would say head south, the weather is so unpredictable near the Rockies.

Try to schedule a pit stop in Liberal, KS. Great FBO and great people. I never miss the chance to hit this airport when I am on this route. And like the previous poster said, Phoenix, via Albaqurque.

Mesa, Falcon Field in Phoenix. My old home base. Another good airport.

Then onto Sacramento.

I am jealous.

Have fun.

 

[CalifDan]

I would add as an alternate to the Southern Route...from Albuquerque (consider Santa Fe for overnight) go to Farmington then across Utah and Nevada north of the MOA's weather permitting. You will see Lake Powell, Brice Canyon, and come out over Toulemme Meadows or Yosemite and then into Sacramento.

If you do go this way, be sure that the weather over the Sierras is clear and the winds are very light. Sometimes a clear winter day is the best trip across. You will need to get to at least 12,500, maybe 14,500 for about 30 minutes over the Sierras. A good place to cross is at Mammoth just south of Bishop. Again, only go this way if it is clear and light winds.

CalifDan