Description

Tucked into the dramatic gorge of Oregon's Owyhee Reservoir, this remote airstrip — affectionately known as "Pelican Point" for the peninsula it occupies — offers a truly one-of-a-kind fly-in experience. Situated 45 miles south of Ontario and just 16 miles from the Idaho border, it stands apart from every other airport in Oregon's system: it serves no community, has minimal emergency utility, and can only be reached by air or a roughly 1.5-hour boat ride from Lake Owyhee State Park to the north. There is no road access whatsoever.

The runway itself is dirt, 1,840 feet long and 30 feet wide, sitting at an elevation of 2,680 feet. The reservoir typically comes right up to both ends, and while there are no obstructions to worry about on approach, pilots should expect loose rocks, a occasionally rough surface, and potentially soft conditions following rain. In dry weather — which is most of the time — expect dust. Surrounded by significantly higher terrain on all sides, the gorge can generate severe turbulence when winds are strong, so this is a destination that demands the right aircraft and a confident, experienced pilot.

Most days, Pelican Point lives up to its reputation for solitude. The scenery is spectacular, with sweeping vistas around every bend of the gorge. Deer are common visitors, and bighorn sheep occasionally appear on the hills to the west. Wildlife also includes rattlesnakes, so watch your step. Fishing in the reservoir can be excellent, but an important caution applies: due to naturally occurring mercury in the water, pregnant or nursing women and children six and under should not consume any fish caught here. Older children and healthy adults should limit consumption to no more than eight ounces, no more than six times per year. Catch-and-release is a sensible approach. Consult the Oregon Fishing Regulations for full details.

Just east of the runway sits a humble structure known — with considerable affection and a straight face — as the "Owyhee Hilton." It's first-come, first-served, and while most visitors will prefer a tent, the cabin can serve as a genuine refuge when conditions turn. Local pilots maintain it for the benefit of all who pass through, so please leave it better than you found it. Emergency food supplies are sometimes kept inside; if you contribute, make sure everything is stored in a rodent-proof container, as pack rats have well-established residency here. The cabin's sign-in logs are worth a read — they offer a rich, informal history of everyone who has made the journey to this unlikely little corner of Oregon.

Because Department of Aviation staff only make it out here every three to four years, pilot reports on runway conditions — good or bad — are genuinely appreciated and help set expectations for those planning a visit.