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NEVADA

Desert Skies and Hidden Gems

Flying over Nevada reveals a land of striking contrasts and hidden treasures. From the vibrant lights of Las Vegas to the serene beauty of the Great Basin, Nevada is a state where the natural world meets human ingenuity in captivating ways. Each photograph in this collection captures a moment in time, offering a unique perspective on a landscape shaped by both nature and history.

As an aviator and AI thought leader, I am drawn to Nevada's blend of rugged wilderness and bold innovation. The words of Mark Twain, who spent time in Nevada, resonate with me: "The secret of getting ahead is getting started." Nevada embodies this spirit of starting anew, of pushing boundaries and exploring the unknown. Through my lens, I aim to capture the essence of this dynamic state, where every vista tells a story of resilience and discovery.

From the sweeping dunes of the Mojave Desert to the shimmering waters of Lake Tahoe, Nevada offers a rich tapestry of landscapes waiting to be explored. My photographs invite you to look beyond the surface and discover the intricate details that define this unique state. In each image, I strive to reflect the sense of adventure and wonder that Nevada inspires.

Let these images serve as more than just a visual record; let them be a testament to the spirit of exploration that defines Nevada. Through the eyes of an aviator who captures not only scenes but also the soul of a place, I invite you to experience the wonders of Nevada from a perspective that few have the chance to see.

24mm f1.78, 11,000 ft @ 110 knots from a Beechcraft Bonanza A36. Glasair Sportsman (N224BL) over Laramie Mountains, Wyoming during a fly-by with the Beechcraft Bonanza A36

Fly-by of a Glasair Sportsman (N224BL) Over Laramie Mountains, Wyoming

On Friday, July 19th, in our Beechcraft Bonanza A36 from Rawlins Municipal Airport (RWL), Wyoming, to La Crosse, Wisconsin, we had the opportunity to do a fly-by of a friend's Glasair Sportsman (N224BL) near Casper, Wyoming. The sight of the Glasair Sportsman soaring through the skies was a testament to the freedom and adventure that aviation offers.

120mm f2.8, 11,000 ft @ 110 knots from a Beechcraft Bonanza A36. Glasair Sportsman (N224BL) over Laramie Mountains, Wyoming during a fly-by with the Beechcraft Bonanza A36. Bob in his Glasair Sportsman in return, photographing us as we photograph his aircraft.

120mm f2.8, 11,000 ft @ 110 knots from a Beechcraft Bonanza A36. Glasair Sportsman (N224BL) over Laramie Mountains, Wyoming during a fly-by with the Beechcraft Bonanza A36

This is the true spirit of flying, where it becomes more than just a means of transportation; it becomes an adventure and a learning experience. Performing a fly-by, which involves flying in close proximity to another aircraft, requires skill and coordination—qualities that come from experience and training. It's these moments of camaraderie and shared passion that make flying so special.

The Glasair Sportsman 2+2 is a single-engine, four-seat, high-wing, homebuilt kit aircraft, equipped with a Lycoming O-360 engine. It is known for its versatility and performance, making it a favorite among aviation enthusiasts who enjoy building and customizing their aircraft.

Flying over the majestic Laramie Mountains in Wyoming added to the excitement of our journey. The Laramie Mountains, part of the larger Rocky Mountains, extend from southeastern Wyoming into northern Colorado. Rich in history and natural beauty, the range has been a vital corridor for wildlife and humans for centuries. The mountains are characterized by rugged terrain, dense forests, and stunning vistas, providing a breathtaking backdrop for our aerial adventure. This region, with its unique geological formations and diverse ecosystems, showcases the natural splendor that makes flying over such landscapes an unforgettable experience.

120mm f2.8, 11,000 ft @ 110 knots from a Beechcraft Bonanza A36. Glasair Sportsman (N224BL) over Laramie Mountains, Wyoming during a fly-by with the Beechcraft Bonanza A36

24mm f1.78, 12,400 ft @ 180 knots from a Beechcraft Bonanza A36, over Marlette Lake Near Lake Tahoe

Flying Over Marlette Lake Near Lake Tahoe On the Way from SQL to RWL

On July 19th 2024, during our journey from San Carlos Airport (SQL) to Rawlins Municipal Airport (RWL), we flew over Marlette Lake, a hidden gem nestled near Lake Tahoe. This picturesque body of water, surrounded by the stunning Sierra Nevada Mountains, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance.

24mm f1.78, 12,400 ft @ 180 knots from a Beechcraft Bonanza A36, over Marlette Lake Near Lake Tahoe

Marlette Lake was created in the late 19th century to serve as a water source for the burgeoning mining towns of Virginia City and Gold Hill. Constructed in 1873, the Marlette Water System was an engineering marvel of its time, using a series of wooden flumes and pipelines to transport water across the rugged terrain of Nevada. The lake remains an integral part of the region's water supply, managed today as part of the Marlette-Hobart Water System, which continues to provide water to Virginia City and Carson City.

This pristine, high-altitude lake is surrounded by lush forests and is part of the Marlette Lake Water System's protected watershed. It is a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities such as hiking, fishing, and wildlife observation. Marlette Lake is known for its pristine waters and is a habitat for native species like the Lahontan cutthroat trout, which has been successfully reintroduced to the lake as part of conservation efforts.

Flying over Marlette Lake provided us with a breathtaking view of this remarkable area, showcasing the intersection of nature's beauty and human ingenuity. This moment highlighted the diverse landscapes and rich histories that are an integral part of our cross-country journey to Oshkosh.

24mm f1.78, 12,400 ft @ 180 knots from a Beechcraft Bonanza A36, over Marlette Lake Near Lake Tahoe

LOL! Over Lovelock, Nevada

LOL! We are over Lovelock, Nevada, on the way to Elko, Nevada and going to do a LOL (Derby Field) fly-by. Derby Field, humorously denoted by its call sign "LOL," is not just an airport with a quirky identifier; it is an integral part of Lovelock, Nevada's rich history. Situated approximately 65 miles northeast of Reno, in the heart of Lovelock, this regional airport, known by its code LOL, plays a crucial role in the aviation network.

77 mm f2.8, 8000 ft @ 100 knots from a Cessna 182T, LOL (Derby Field) airport

Lovelock itself, steeped in history, was named after George Lovelock, a 19th-century shopkeeper and local landowner. The town has evolved from its early days as a stopover for settlers on the Humboldt Trail to a vibrant community, with Derby Field adding to its historical tapestry. Serving as a key refueling point for eastbound and westbound aircraft, Derby Field is a testament to the growth and development of Lovelock, blending its historical roots with the modern demands of aviation. The airport's light-hearted call sign, "LOL," adds a touch of whimsy to an otherwise serious endeavor, reflecting the unique charm of Lovelock, Nevada, and highlighting the often-overlooked significance of regional airfields in America's aviation history.

26 mm f1.5, 8000 ft @ 100 knots from a Cessna 182T, over Lovelock, Nevada with LOL (Derby Field) airport at 11 o'clock

77 mm f2.8

Fuel stop at Elko, Nevada (KEKO)

Elko Regional Airport (KEKO) in Elko, Nevada was our last stop before landing at our home base in San Francisco Bay Area at Palo Alto Airport (KPAO) on the way back from our AI Demo Day II, Oshkosh WI. Nestled in the heart of the Ruby Mountains, Elko, Nevada, offers a unique blend of Wild West history and stunning natural beauty. Elko is also the unofficial cowboy capital of Nevada.

26 mm f1.5

The popcorn you see with our Cessna 182T was from the last airport’s FBO (Fixed-base operator) at the Casper County International Airport in Wyoming and not this one (Mountain West Aviation) at Elko Regional Airport in Nevada.

14 mm f1.8

26 mm f1.5

The neighborhood is made up of single-family homes, most of which were built in the early 2000s. Blue Water Court is a popular place to live for families, as it is located in a good school district and has several parks and playgrounds nearby.

According to Zillow, the median home value in Blue Water Court is $569,000. The homes in the neighborhood range in size from 3,000 to 5,000 square feet and have an average of 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. Blue Water Court is also a relatively safe neighborhood, with a crime rate that is below the national average.

The Elko Regional Airport in Elko, Nevada, is notable for several reasons:

1. Strategic Location:The airport is strategically located in northeastern Nevada, serving as a crucial transportation hub for the region. It provides access to remote and often difficult-to-reach areas, making it an essential resource for business, medical, and emergency services.

2. Mining Industry: Elko is situated in a mining-rich area, and the airport plays a vital role in supporting the mining operations in the region. It facilitates the transportation of personnel, equipment, and supplies to and from the mining sites, contributing significantly to the local economy.

3. General Aviation: In addition to its importance for commercial travel, Elko Regional Airport is also utilized by general aviation enthusiasts. It offers facilities and services for private pilots, recreational flyers, and flight training, making it a focal point for aviation activities in northeastern Nevada.

4. Community Connectivity: The airport connects the relatively isolated communities of northeastern Nevada to larger urban centers. It provides residents with access to essential services, healthcare facilities, and educational institutions that may not be available locally.

5. Wildfire Response: Due to the region's susceptibility to wildfires, the airport serves as a crucial base for firefighting efforts. It supports the coordination and deployment of firefighting aircraft, helping to mitigate the impact of wildfires on the surrounding landscape.

77 mm f2.8

77 mm f1.5, 50 ft @ 80 knots from a Cessna 182T

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