Tunnel Meadows Airstrip

Tunnel Meadows Airstrip (US-1640) in Three Rivers, US, is not an active airstrip for public travel, and therefore, there are no recent traveler reviews or experiences to summarize. Historical accounts indicate that the airstrip was closed to general aviation in 1978 with the establishment of the Golden Trout Wilderness area, with outfitter flights ceasing by 1982.

Historically, the airstrip was known for its challenging nature due to its high elevation (over 9,000 feet) and surrounding terrain, leading to frequent accidents.

What Travelers (Historically) Loved:

• Access to Remote Wilderness: The airstrip provided a unique entry point to the Golden Trout Wilderness and the area south of Mount Whitney for fishing, hiking, and camping.
• Mountain Flying Experience: For experienced pilots, it offered a challenging and rewarding mountain flying experience.
• Outfitter Services: In its operational years, services like Bob White Flying Service offered transportation from Lone Pine and provided amenities like tents, beds, and linens at an air camp.

Common Complaints (Historically):

• Difficult Landing Conditions: The airstrip was considered one of the most challenging fields to land due to winds and terrain difficulties, resulting in numerous accidents.
• Limited "Go-Around" Options: Landing to the west allowed for a go-around, but approaching from the other direction was considered marginal.
• Lack of Facilities (Basic): While an air camp existed with basic provisions like a Forest Service magneto-crank phone, a ranger station, and tents, it was far from a modern terminal facility.

Today, few signs of the air camp remain, with only remnants of old corrals and buildings visible to keen observers hiking in the meadow. The landing strip is still somewhat visible on satellite photos. Any discussions about Tunnel Meadows Airstrip in online forums are typically historical in nature, focusing on its past use and closure rather than current traveler experiences.