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Wilkinson added that Gaston’s reminds him of why it’s important to stay sharp with seat-of-the-pants flying, even today. “Tucked in the White River Valley south of Bull Shoals Lake, you approach the downwind from the south over a high ridge then let down into the curve of the river for base. It leads you to an open area for approach to the field. Eyes must always be up and out with mind on pitch and power to control the approach. With a steady eye out for power lines along the way and trees at the end, you can set down smoothly on the 3,200 feet of well-kept turf.”
John Young, a pilot who has flown multiple aircraft models (both piston and turbine) into the airport, offered up advice for first-timers. “If it’s your first time to visit Gaston’s, the
(and avid fly fisherman) Rick Gollinger, the restaurant serves a variety of steakhouse fare and of course, trout and other seafood. And what better way to enjoy your days’ work than to hand over your fish to the kitchen for the “You Catch ‘Em, We Cook ‘Em” option on the menu. Chef Gollinger’s team will fillet, clean and cook your trout however you prefer – broiled, fried or pan seared.
If you prefer to cook your catch yourself, be sure to select a kitchenette-equipped cabin complete with pots, pans and appliances. In all, there are 79 total riverfront cabins with assorted layouts. Aside from lodging and dining, the resort also features tennis courts, a pool, a playground, a wild-bird sanctuary, a gift shop, a game room, a duck pond, three nature trails and a conference center.
“What truly makes this place special is we go out of our way to accommodate guests’ needs,” said Gaston. “The various ac- tivities and hospitable demeanor of the staff culminate to cre- ate one of the most inclusive resorts in the Arkansas Ozarks.”
Flying into Gaston’s
Approaching Gaston’s White River Resort is scenic as the backdrop is sweeping, tree-covered hills and backcountry. The final approach into 3M0 is relatively simple, although there are power lines on short final that might surprise any- one new to the airstrip. Zachary Wilkinson, a pilot who has flown a Quest Kodiak into the strip, described the experience as “the kind of flying the first pilots did. The ones who were free to fly low, enjoy the view and land anywhere with an open area of grass.”
key is thinking ahead as you would for any flight. Talk to people who’ve been there before, watch videos online and plan your first visit in fair weather conditions. Backcountry flying is all about knowing your aircraft, your capabilities, having a plan and executing it. What a fantastic way to hone your skills and expand your flying adventure. And for those of you with float planes – Bull Shoals lake is right next door!”
If your aircraft is not suited for off-field landings, there are two alternate airports within a 15-minute drive of the resort: Baxter County Airport (BPK) and Marion Country Regional Airport (FLP). Both airports offer a 5,001-foot by 75- foot asphalt runway, lighted approach and Jet-A. While BPK is around four nautical miles to the northeast of Gaston’s, FLP is about four nautical miles to the southwest. Transportation to and from the airports can be covered by the Gaston’s staff.
With its beautiful scenery, world-class fishing and con- venient landing options, Gaston’s White River Resort easily deserves recognition in this pilot destination series. Stay tuned for our next “Great Getaways” feature in the April issue.
Grant Boyd is a recent marketing graduate of Wichita State University. A private pilot, Boyd is currently working toward his instrument rating and MBA, with the ultimate goal of combining his love of business and aviation with a career at a general aviation manufacturer. You can contact Grant at grantboyd2015@gmail.com.
14 • TWIN & TURBINE
March 2019