The 11th High Sierra Fly-In has come to an end for 2022, and this recent installment of the dry lake adventure was truly remarkable. With perhaps the most favorable weather in the event’s brief history – although it was still chilly and dusty – an almost record-breaking number of aircraft and people gathered at Dead Cow Dry Lake in northern Nevada. It was a congregation of fast friends with planes with fat tires and tales of daring deeds, all coming together to roam the desert and spend time with both long-time and brand-new friends.
We are still awaiting the final count for this year’s HSF, but then again, today is the birthday of event organizer and outstanding starting flag-man Kevin Quinn. So, it’s forgivable for him to take an extra day to release the figures.
In the short period since its inception, the fly-in has become one of the unmissable events of the flying year. We would contend that it is second only to Oshkosh and possibly Sun ‘n Fun. And because it is so distinct from anything previously attempted and the location is so remote, there is little possibility that its reputation will do anything other than expand.
So, keep a close watch for those numbers. Based on participant reports, we anticipate it to be one of the largest gatherings at Dead Cow ever. And while you’re waiting, take a look at some excellent photos of the event from Tony Cruz and Paul Ruschman.
