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YouTube Flying Videos by Jan Nademlejnsky

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September 10, 2023

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450. Flying over Ross Moore Lake Wildfire Area, Sep 8, 2023

The flying conditions were very good and even smoke form wildfires was not too bad. I decided to check the status of Ross Moore Lake wildfire with its edge just 15 km south of Kamloops city. The 113 km2 (44 mi2) fire was still classified as out of control, but I did not see any evidence of it. It looked from the air as the fire well in control. I saw just 3 small areas with still smoldering patches. I called the location of the first patch (SW of the fire area center) and I was told that helicopter is flying there every day to check the progress. There should not be any reason to get it again out of control. The fire was very close to a major recreation and residential area of Lac Le Jeune NW of the fire start. I have good aerial view of Kamloops from early morning lit by fresh sun. I finished my enjoyable flight be several low passes over the river sandbars, just south of airport. The edges formations were spectacular. Those sandbars are very dynamic, continually changing by flowing and water level dropping river.

Pictures

449. Kamloops Area Covered with Wildfire Smoke, Sep 2, 2023

It was not an ideal day to go flying because we had some serious, out of control fires near by. Also wind direction helped to blow the smoke from the other places too. I have to turn around in mid flight, because to visibility was getting critical. I still have very good video from South Thompson River valley and from Knutsford area too. I wanted to see the effect of those fires, but it was impossible from the allowed altitude to see anything. I flew over downtown to check the rivers water situation and the headed north to Lac Du Bois (lake), which I visited a day earlier. It is beautiful area and I wanted to see it from the above too. After flying over Mara Hill and NW Ridge I crossed the river for low level passes of the ever changing river sandbars. This is always is a highlight of my flying day.

448. Low Water Level of Thompson Rivers. Kamloops Aug 19, 2023

I flew above both North and South Thompson Rivers to check how low the water level is. North Thompson is receiving extra water from the rains upstream, which is good news. It is very well seen in Kamloops downtown in the river confluence. The outflow from N Thompson River is in totally different, grayish silt color. I labeled it in the video as “New water”. It is not “fresh water” because it is really badly looking. Water level up MW spilled into dry land and islands flushing all that accumulated stuff back into the river which we are just receiving here in Kamloops. We are in level 5 drought category with serious water usage restrictions.

447. Kamloops in the Middle of Wildfires. July 23, 2023

It was my interesting, early morning flight.. Flew south by the monster, out of control, wildfire by Ross Moore Lake. There is high elevation view of the ever expanding fire, affecting many evacuated residents. I was surprised to see the fire up to the up wind edge regardless of very strong wind in the previous day. I expected to see large burned out area on the up wind, western side, but not. I guess, it is the unpredictable nature. One half of Kamloops was in serious smoke cover while the other half, west side was reasonably clear. I also noticed another, to me just starting fire further north. It looked like some large camp fire. I reported its location to Kamloops Flight Services. Later that day I noticed this as already registered Frisken Creek fire. The video shows the interesting view of Kamloops city partially shrouded in thick smoke screen…. Overall, it was good 127 km long flight.

446. Scenic Flight to Chase, Mt Martin, Monte, Campbell and Scuitto Lakes. July 18, 2023

Beautiful and very scenic flight through the Chase-Falkland Rd valley. The nature colors are changing very quickly in these unusually hot and dry conditions. There are still some regions which are very healthily green. I was surprised with unusually, 23 min long wait for my position to land. I felt like in an Oshkosh.

445. Scenic Flight to Little Shuswap Lake. High Level Views of the River Valley. July 12, 2023

I was originally flying to Salmon Arm airport, but heavy smoke from surrounding forest fires made me to turn back earlier. Regardless, I have very good video of the South Thompson River valley from the higher elevation then usually. This brought larger areas into my cameras views. It also shows our vital river quickly losing the water level due to hot and dry weather. It might be interesting year in Kamloops. Also visited fire fighting air base to check the water bombers and take some pictures.

444. Scenic Loop to Highland Valley Copper Mine, Spences Bridge Area, Ashcroft, Savona… July 4, 2023

It was a perfect and scenic flight through very interesting country sites in various styles. Very nice aerial view of super big, Highland Valley Copper Mine, open pit operation. I continued then into Nicola River Valley to check the hwy 8 which was practically destroyed by serious 2022 river flood. There is a 800 ft long and straight piece to highway which was cut out from the rest of the highway by the river. This could be potentially used as a landing strip. The location looks a bit intimidating, but it could be perfect for the mountain type of pilots. I turned north upstream of Thompson River to Ashcroft. I skipped the nearby Cache Creek airport, because the turbulence started already knocking on my back and I wanted to be back ASAP. The Nicola and Thompson River valleys are spectacular, but again intimidating for low level style of flying. I crossed Walhachin, Savona, Tobiano and finally Kamloops. I was really moving on my last leg over the Kamloops Lake with whitecaps, with 30 km/h (19 mph) tail wind. The tail wind almost instantly changed to headwind just by the Kamloops airport. It really woke me up from my peaceful flight. It was rough few seconds.

443. Flying to Bonaparte Lake & Bonaparte Provincial Park via McLure. June 30, 2023

It was 177 km (110 mi) long flight of pure fun. I tried several times to fly to Bonaparte Lake area, but the bad turbulence always changed my plans.

I was really surprised with number of lakes and lash green and beautiful areas. I also saw ravaged areas from 2021 forest fire, but the nature is slowly recovering from that disaster. I captured the Kamloops downtown in the early morning sun and quickly loosing water level in our rivers. We could already see river sandbars which are normally still under several feet of water.

442. Flying to Deadman Falls over Tobiano, Savona, Deadman River and Straight Line Back. June 26, 2023

I visited the Deadman Falls in 2021 by motorcycle. I also flew very nearby previously, but at that time I didn’t know about the waterfalls there. I decided to check it out. It was very good, 153 km long and very enjoyable flight. The scenery and the nature are spectacular. I followed the Deadman River deep valley there and I flew straight line over totally unknown terrain on the way back. Check it out; you will like it.

441. Flight through Nicola Valley to Merritt, Logan Lake and Tunkwa Lake, Kamloops June 17, 2023

This was the day to fly. Absolutely the best conditions to do video. The fluffy clouds created beautiful spotty patterns on the ground. Everything around was in full green and healthy looking shape. I flew to small city Merritt airport through one of the most scenic region Nicola Valley. It is filled with many lakes in deep valleys, meadows and rolling hills all in multi shades of spring green color. After short pit stop I continued above highway 97C to small village Logan Lake, which almost burned down in serious forest fire in 2022. I flew over Tunkwa Provincial Park and Duffy Lake back to Kamloops. It was 180 km (112 mi) of pure pleasure filled with natural beauty. I was back on the ground at 8:15 am.

440. Local Flight to Test Gimbal Head GoPro Camera, Kamloops June 6, 2023

I replaced my Insta360 X2 camera with GoPro Hero 7B mounted in 3 axes stabilizer Removu S1. The 360 deg camera is very good, but editing and lining the wanted views is very tedious and time consuming. I was looking for better results, but I was disappointed. I was hoping that motorized Gimbal head with 3 gyroscopes would be proper solution. It is not as shown in the video. I will be going back to Insta360 X2 as front view camera. You could still enjoy aerial views of Kamloops when all is green. It looks so good.

439. Scenic Flight from Vernon to Kamloops in Extreme Turbulence. Part 2 of 2, May 31, 2023

The return leg from Vernon to Kamloops was very interesting to say it mildly. I was mega challenge of extreme conditions in my experience so far: Terrible turbulence and landing into strong gusty wind, which was not forecasted.

I chose more scenic road through the Falkland Valley. This area is known for strong and sudden bursts of wind. There is even sign on highway warning drivers from strong winds. It gave me full work out and tested my skills, and will to live. It was 20 minutes of swearing and wishing not to be there. It topped up the landing into totally unpredicted gusty wind of 28-44 km/h (17-27 mph) wind. The original forecast was 6-8 km/h (4-5 mph).

438. Direct and Peaceful Flight to Vernon, Part 1 of 2. May 31, 2023

I was considering this flight to neighboring airport in Vernon for several years now. It was definitely out of my comfort zone, not because of distance or terrain, but the unpredictable flying conditions. The terrain between Kamloops and Vernon is combination of mountains, large lakes, many complexly laid valleys and large open spaces. This creates ripe conditions for multidirectional and gusty winds and of course turbulence too. The terrain is spectacular, which was the main attraction for me.

I was up in the air at 6:15 am to avoid heat changes from cold(er) morning to hot noon, which brings turbulence. I chose straight line flight over the mountains to Vernon and more scenic route through the Falkland Valley on the way back. The sun position was also the factor to get better light condition for my video cameras. Well, the return leg was very interesting to say it mildly. I was mega challenge of extreme conditions in my experience so far: Terrible turbulence and landing into strong gusty wind, which was not forecasted.

437. Flight to Barriere, Whitecroft, Barnhartvale, 180 km of Beauty. May 16, 2023

This was another beautiful flight through less traveled areas. I followed the North Thompson River up to McLure ferry and then over the mountains to Barriere. The next leg led me to Whitecroft, small village near Sun Peaks. I followed the narrow valley filled with all kind of green colors. The nature is fully transformed now from the dark winter colors to bright greens. The third leg of my 180 km long flight was to Buse Lake area in Barnhartvale area. The Buse Lake is completing its summer transformation into purple/red color.

I tried many times for several years to fly close to the Rock Needle of Buse Hill, but the weather conditions had always different plans. It looked promising this time, but my main, full view camera battery died. I flew close, but still encounter unpleasant turbulence there. I completed my journey above the south side of the South Thompson River and recording views of Barnhartvale, Juniper Ridge and Kamloops Sahali area. Other areas to see are Brocklehurst, Batchelor Heights, Westsyde, Ida Lane hill, North Thompson River valley residential areas.

436. Flight to Sun Peaks, Chase and High Water Level of South Thompson River. May 19, 2023

Beautiful flight to quickly changing Sun Peaks from winter ski paradise to green mountain playground. I continued to small village Chase, which is start of South Thompson River. I flew over the river which is spilling over in some areas; annual cycle from very low at over high water levels.

It is interesting to compare the river valley character between those two extremes. See my video # 432 from Apr 14, 2023 for comparison.

435. Return Flight from Cache Creek to Kamloops, May 11 2023

This is the second part (video #434) of my trip to Cache Creek to see the flooding situation there. The flight is threading through very interesting geographical nature with beauty in every direction.

434. Flight to Cache Creek to Check the River Flooding Situation. Kamloops, May 11 2023

It was an interesting flight in the Thompson and Bonaparte river valleys to see the flooding river conditions. Small town of Cache Creek was already affected by damaging flood and expecting additional flood by Bonaparte River. I flew over Ashcroft and Cache Creek from south to north. I landed at local and to me intimidating and challenging airport with unpredictable weather and thermal conditions. I had to land to change battery of my video camera. Whole area changed already from dry brown and brownish color to increasingly green colors from nature fast spring awakening.

433. Following Tranquille Canyon to Fire Devastated Red & Sparks Lakes Areas, Deadman Valley, Walhachin, Tobiano… Apr 27, 2028

I was considering this flight for several years now, but the terrain looks and is very intimidating. The gold containing Tranquille Creek is running in very deep, steep and narrow canyon. Definitively any mechanical or even environmental failure would be total disaster in that hostile environment. I started early in the morning to limit my exposure to expected turbulence, but it was still not relaxing flight. The strong headwind created mechanical turbulence behind and around the hills. This combined with warm and cold sides of the canyon created very good turbulence. Well, I made it through! It is very nice in the Red Lake area, which follows the Sparks Lake. The Sparks Lake became “famous” in June 2021 when someone set forest on fire. It was hell on earth: 52 buildings, over 90,000 ha of forest gone, and millions spent on aerial and ground fire fighting. It was terrible summer even for us living 40 km away from it. Covered also Deadman Valley, Walhachin area, Savona, Pat Lake, Tobiano, Cherry Creek, South Thompson River sand bars, Tranquille Farm.

The sky was very clear and visibility perfect so you could see the Costal Mountain Ridge still covered in snow.

432. Complete South Thompson River, Low Water Level Aerial Survey, Kamloops, Apr 14, 2023

Here is my aerial survey of all South Thompson River from Chase to Kamloops delta. I wanted to capture the 2023 lowest water level in that river.

It was very nice and interesting flight. I received warning form the Kamloops Flight Services about ash from Russian (Kamchatka) volcano 4,800 km away. Eventually I had an experience with that strange phenomena. I saw two big snow falling areas in my path which could be dangerous with very strong winds. That cold air is usually sucked into my sun heated warmer air where I was. I experienced it already once and I don’t care for any repetition. I noticed when editing my videos that the snow area was actually very local ash fall. I noticed it on my camera and my windshield was very dusty. The sky was very diverse and interesting. Unpleasant flight against early morning rising sun with poor visibility turned out to be fun flight fro Chase to Kamloops.

431. Kamloops from the Air in Heavy Turbulence, Apr 11, 2023

I wanted to document extremely low water level in whole South Thompson River. I did the second half of it in my video 429 from March 20, 2023.

I did not make it too far this time, because of very strong and unpleasant turbulence. I was getting air sick and I did not want to push my luck. I had to give up. I hope I could make it soon. I brought very interesting video from around the Kamloops city.

430. Flight to Lac Le Jeune and Detail Survey of Kamloops Sandbars, Kamloops Mar 29, 2023

I flew over scenic road to Lac Le Jeune Provincial Park, campground and residential area. While Kamloops valley is practically snow free and in spring like weather, the area south is still in full winter mode. I turned SE to Knutsford area, over Paterson Creek canyon to Kamloops downtown. I then followed South Thompson River to its delta to Kamloops Lake. I made over 50 km above those spectacular sand bars. The river water level is in its seasonal lowest point so the sand beaches and the sandbars areas are enormous. They will disappear under water in June to August with not unusual flood in lower city elevations. I documented special twist to crop circles. By the SW of river delta. If you have chance to watch this video on TV then you will not regret it. You will not see it again as it is, because they are always changing and slowly disappearing with the spring runoff.

429. Checking Low Water Level of North and South Thompson Rivers, Kamloops Mar 20, 2023

Kamloops probably reached to lowest river level this season. It is really low. Spring and spring temperatures are here which started snow melting from the mountain and high elevation regions. I wanted to capture this event which is only possible to se from the air and preferably from low elevation. I flew east 43 km (27 mi), past the Monte Creek above of the South Thompson River. I also used a clip insert from June 24, 2012 when rivers water level was just peaking out for comparison. After that, I turner NW towards McLure by North Thompson River. I changed my direction due to turbulence. I flew instead over Pinantan and Paul Lakes and over the Lyons Lake to the “end of civilization” of North Thompson River. I followed the rivers to airport which was 72 km (45 mi) away.

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428. Flying to Buse Lake in no Fun Turbulence. Mar 16, 2023

I have been trying 11 years to do close up of Buse Hill rock face needle, but the flying conditions had been too dangerous to do it. The turbulence was too much for my fun even far away from the hill. I toured above several Kamloops subdivisions, like Valleyview, Dallas, NE river shore cliffs, Sun Rivers, Batchelor Hills, North Ridge… I am also showing detail views of spectacular nature creation, sand bars of South Thompson River delta. It is my favorite area to fly, because it is always different. This is the only way to see it and also to see what is under water too.

427. Flying to Harper Ranch, Campbell Creek Rd to Knutsford, Ajax, Afton, Cherry Creek, Kamloops, Mar 9, 2023

I ventured a bit behind the hills in area which might not be very well known. All this is presented with easy listening music. You could see: Brock, North Shore, Sun Rivers, North Ridge with Mt Peter & Paul, Harper Ranch Dallas, Barnhartvale, Campbell Creek, Shumway Lake valley, Knutsford, Ajax mine, Jacko Lake, Afton mine, Cherry Creek area, South Thompson River sand bars.

Pictures

426. Flying to Harper Ski Hill in very Good Turbulence. Kamloops Mar 3, 2023

Beautiful, but turbulent flight to Kamloops area 2^nd largest ski hill.

425. Flying over the City. Short, Intro Video. Kamloops Feb 11, 2023

424. Flying over East of City, Valleyview, Dallas, Barnhartvale and then Sun Rivers, North Shore and Brock. Kamloops Feb 11, 2023

This is the second part of my detailed city fly over.

423. Flying in Survey Pattern over South Side of City, Kamloops Feb 15, 2023

It decided to do detail fly over the south side of Kamloops city in a survey type of track pattern. This covers the largest and the hilliest part of Kamloops. It shows our diverse and very complex terrain which must really challenge for the city planners and maintainers. The video is result of 93 km over that city section.

422. Flying to Beautiful Area of Walhachin. Kamloops, Feb 9, 2023

It was beautiful winter day to have some good fun in the air. Sunny sky and temperature above freezing added to that special mood. The Walhachin area has very interestingly carved winding river banks, looking like being made by a machine. The flight to that place goes through many natural wonders looking spectacular from the ground and the air. Places to see from 113 km long flight: North Shore, Domtar, river junction, Aberdeen, Dufferin, Afton mine, Cherry Creek area, Tobiano, hoodoos, Balancing Rock, Savona, Thompson River rec areas, Walhachin, South Thompson River delta sand bars…

421. Flying with the Clouds. Kamloops, Jan 15, 2023

This video has background music

Another interesting flying conditions: Heavy, multi-layer clouds, blue sky, bright sunshine, dark ground areas. I covered North Ridge, Batchelor area, North Thompson River, Westsyde, Mt Mara, Tranquille Creek valley, Lac du Bois Area. The Tranquille-Criss Creek, normally deep and steep valley was under clouds. This created very interesting visual effect. See also nice Sundog (Halo) effect in the clouds

I had interesting moment before my landing when looking for entry hole in the clouds. I had to ask the control tower to check it for me, which they did. It was difficult to see anything except very bright white fluffs reflecting the sun directly into my face. Another moment happened while I was taking pictures above Batchelor subdivision where I was hit with sudden and strong updraft, which almost ripped the control bar from my hand. It was fun and interesting flight.

420. Flying with the Clouds. Kamloops, Jan 15, 2023

This video has no background music.

Another interesting flying conditions: Heavy, multi-layer clouds, blue sky, bright sunshine, dark ground areas. I covered North Ridge, Batchelor area, North Thompson River, Westsyde, Mt Mara, Tranquille Creek valley, Lac du Bois Area. The Tranquille-Criss Creek, normally deep and steep valley was under clouds. This created very interesting visual effect. See also nice Sundog (Halo) effect in the clouds

I had interesting moment before my landing when looking for entry hole in the clouds. I had to ask the control tower to check it for me, which they did. It was difficult to see anything except very bright white fluffs reflecting the sun directly into my face. Another moment happened while I was taking pictures above Batchelor subdivision where I was hit with sudden and strong updraft, which almost ripped the control bar from my hand. It was fun and interesting flight.

419. Kamloops Winter Sunset: Shorter Version of #418 Video. Dec 28, 2022

This is a shorter version of the video #418, with mainly views from the front camera. It is made for people liking to look around while enjoying the beautiful Kamloops natural beauty. This version has no music, just an engine and wind sound.

Pictures

418. Kamloops Winter Sunset: Uncut Front Camera View. Dec 28, 2022

This is a long version of the video #417, with mainly views from the front camera. It is made for people liking to look around while enjoying the beautiful Kamloops natural beauty. This version has no music, just an engine and wind sound.

Pictures

417. Kamloops Winter Sunset, Part 2 of 2. Dec 28, 2022

Spectacular atmospheric conditions were captured in this late afternoon video. High clouds above, low clouds just below, orange glow from setting down sun, rainbow, blue sky, spectacular clouds colors and shapes…. Majority of my flight was very peaceful and relaxing, but also with sharp awakening by a local turbulence. Good aerial view of Batchelor Hill area, Brock, glowing in the sun Mt Peter, Harper Ranch area, Dallas, North and NW Ridge area, Tranquille Farm / Padova area.

Pictures

416. Kamloops Winter Sunset, Part 1 of 2. Dec 28, 2022

Finally, some decent weather for very nice late afternoon flight. This is short video from above Brock and North Shore areas. I forgot to turn my main camera on, so I had to turn back and start again. The sky was spectacular with beautiful effect from sun setting behind the hills.

415. Cold Birds Views from Kamloops Areas. Dec 13, 2022

I was waiting whole month for this moment due to unreasonable weather. It was worth of wait. The air was smooth like silk which took off the usual nasty weather related surprises. I am showing very detail views of Bachelor Heights residential area (from N to S) and Tranquille Farm (Padova City). I flew low level in 3 different directions to show that mysterious place. It was very good, 96 km long flight.

Pictures

414. Spectacular Flight over Snowy Downtown, Sun Rivers, Harper Ranch and North Ridge. Kamloops Nov 12, 2022

Finally, another nice flight after long pause due to bad weather. Everything looks even more spectacular with the contrasting snow covered and bare surfaces. Check it out.

413. Local, 170 km Long Flight till 30 min after the Sunset. Kamloops Oct 15, 2022

Enjoyable evening flight to see Kamloops sunset and then till the end of allowable legal limit, which is 30 min pass the sunset.

Interesting views of Kamloops, Knutsford areas, North Ridge and Kamloops in nightlight.

412. Rough Flying to See Ravaged Area by 2021 Wildfire of Monte Lake. Kamloops Oct 12, 2022

This was my 3rd attempt to see the effect of the 2021 devastating wildfire in Monte Lake area. The bad turbulence always won over my bravery. Not this time. I stuck with it and even when I complicated it with my 1 pm take-off during heat laden air. The timing guaranteed good bumps. I was not disappointed. The visibility was much better than during my usual early morning take offs, but the turbulence was relentless. I was really swearing into my helmet after some serious jolts.

The area looks like a different world. I felt like being in the volcano crater. Poor residents: they had to live through this nature hell. I think I have very interesting video from 5 cameras documenting my 130 km flight.

411. Fantastic River Sandbars from the Air, Sep 27, 2022

The end of my 133 km (83 mi) journey, flight over the South Thompson River sandbars. They are forming very interesting, complex, ever-changing and very beautiful under/above water creations. Two minutes video.

Pictures

410. Flight to Red Lake to Check Results of the Devastating 2021 Sparks Forest Fire, Sep 27, 2022

Flight started flying west, above the Kamloops North Ridge, following the steep and rugged north shoreline of Kamloops Lake. I then followed the Copper Creek farming valley to the Red Lake area which was devastated by the incredible 2021 Sparks wildfire. This fire consumed 737 km2 (280 mi2) of forest. It was interesting to see how such an enormous fire burned very selectively in many places. Some trees were untouched with many islands of trees still green, while everything around is black. I continued to Deadman Rd valley with several low passes by very interesting steep cliff rock formations, reminding me of many Europeans castles built similarly on steep hills. Strangely, the air was filled with fire smoke, while nothing was burning up wind. I finished my journey with several low passes over the ever-changing underwater sandbars, forming very interesting, complex and beautiful creations.

Pictures

409. Nice Flight in Serious Turbulence, Kamloops Sep 7, 2022

It looked like an ideal condition for flying, but the reality changed very quickly into a nasty turbulence. Decent condition changed within 10 km into scary situation. Cool morning, no wind, cloudy without thermals so why this sudden change? I had to change my original plan because I did not want to push my luck. It was still very nice and eventually peaceful flight. Test

408. My Stupid Mistake and Surprised Trike Reaction, Kamloops Aug 28, 2022

This is short video taken from my previous video #407. I am showing in details my serious mistake and consequence when I forgot to buckle up the seat belt.

My seat belt is not the best kind. It has the flip up latch to open it. This poor design allowed me to unbuckle in flight (3x) when lifting the neck camera. I solved this unpleasant problem with the funny pack covering the buckle. The camera strap does not accidentally unbuckle me now, but complicate situation to buckle up in flight.

The air was very good and steady. I set (tuned) the electric wing trim to level, hands free flight first. The complication started when trying to place both belt ends under the funny pack with camera on the top of it. Then, suddenly and instantly the control bar went to max forward up to the front brace. I did not change the RPM. It had to be vertical puff of air. This proved my point that it is important to relax your hands on control bar, but still control or dampen the bar/wing from reaching the extreme movement due to the asymmetrical vertical air movements.

407. Turbulence Changed my Plan to Fly to another Nature Beauty, Kamloops Aug 28, 2022

Originally I had different plan, but totally unexpected and ever increasing turbulence made me turn around and look for some more peaceful place to fly. I found it and it was very beautiful country site with many lakes, hills and deep valleys. I had also one stupid moment shoving how close I was to some serious problem. I will show more details in my follow up short video to show my stupidity from different camera angles. You will get the pictures in this video.

Pictures

406. Flight to Salmon Arm Airport Coffee and Return Flight Back at Hot Noon, Aug 17, 2022

I was considering this flight for long time, but the hot noon weather effect scared me from doing it. Salmon Arm flying club, about one hour away, has Wednesday morning coffee fly-ins, which starts at 10 am. Normally, I am back from my flights by 9 am to prevent the nastiness of the hot weather turbulence. This time it was different. I took off at 9 am (22 C / 72 F) and returned at noon at 29 C (84 F). The first leg was a straight line over some mountain area very hostile to emergency landing. I encounter turbulence close to the peak. The turbulence is not the problem, but the apprehension about what will come next. Is this the first warning, would it get worse, what to do next. I could go higher, but eventually I had to go low too… Salmon Arm is very member active airport located is beautiful area by enormous Shuswap Lake. I had coffee and Tim bits, took some pictures, talked to other pilots and headed back.

I followed the highway and the river valley through the civilization on my way back. The sun was in my back, so it was better for the cameras. This video is extract from my 10 hours, 5 camera videos, 214 km (133 mi) long flight through one of the best nature in this region. There was practically no heat turbulence except above the concrete runways, like always.

405. Beautiful Flying to Douglas Lake over Many Other Lakes, Aug 12, 2022

190 km (118 mi) long trip through the most picturesque hills, valleys and lake areas to a special recreational area of Douglas Lake Ranch. The ranch is owned by an USA company as a self contained small village even with private airstrip and church. I visited this area several times by road and flying there and every time I discover something new. Enjoy my video!

Pictures

404. Mountain Flying to Greenstone Mt, Ajax Mine, Kamloops Downtown and Watching Creek Wild Fire, Aug 6, 2022

It was very relaxing and a bit colder flight (11 C (52 F) to very nice area of Greenstone mountain. It used to be the forestry fire watch tower, before they switched to satellites and electronics. The shack is still there and maintained be volunteers even though it was several times vandalized. It is one of the highest peaks in that region which offers perfect 360 deg view. I flew to Ajax dormant gold mine for low path views, Kamloops downtown, Kamloops landmarks Mt Peter & Paul. Finally I flew for aerial view of still classified as out of control wild fire started by Jul 29 lightning. I have been watching and video this Watching Creek fire progress from ground up and now from top down. You could see defensive reddish lines from the local jet water bombers and fire break path to stop the fire progress. It is still burning (smoldering) in the E and NE slopes.

403. Hot Summer Morning Flight to Isobel and Many Other Lakes, Jul 28, 2022

I took off at 7:30 in 24 C (75 F) sweating temperature to cool off in higher up, but no luck. Regardless, I flew over another spectacular and diverse terrain with many lakes, hills, deep valleys, meadows and forest. I am shoving this beautiful Kamloops region which is relatively easily accessible by the roads and very popular with locals looking for a fun in nature. Places to see:

Long Lake, Lac Du Bois, McQueen Lake, Griffin Lake, Isobel Lake, Battle Bluff, Frederick, Tranquille Creek Canyon, Tranquille farm, Kamloops Lake, North Ridge

Pictures

402. Another Fantastic Flight to Knuff Lake and Sun Peaks, Second Largest Ski Resort in Canada, Jul 20, 2022

Morning flight to beautiful recreational area of Knuff and Sullivan lakes and then to Canada famous Sun Peaks. Sun Peaks is the 2^nd largest ski resort in Canada. It is year round super fun to spend time there. I had opportunity to add extra perspective into that spectacular playground. I was a bit chilly at 8000 ft (2438 m).

401. Flight to Ashcroft and Landing in Cache Creek, Jul 14, 2022

Perfect flight in spectacular river valley and good combination of sun and cloud for good video. I did this route several times and it is always challenging with very variable weather conditions. There are several valleys meeting in one point which is very often rough to fly through. After every landing in Cache Creek I made decision not to land there anymore, but, like this time, I did it again. This is short video from 165 km flight made into very nice music. Check our luckiness to live in such complex natural beauty. I had very rare opportunity to video two opposing trains in the same place, but separated by river. It looks like model trains running in the loop.

400. Flight over Mountain to Chase and S Thompson River Track Back, Jul 2, 2022

It was one of my best ever flight; perfectly relaxing and without any unpleasant weather surprises. I flew in straight line over the Paul Lake and Harper Ski Hill to Chase at 7:30 am with sun directly into my face. I could not wait for my return flight with sun in my back and perfect visibility. This video is made into very happy and jumpy music to boost your mood. I spent an extra time over the Sun Rivers subdivision, spectacularly located and built under Kamloops famous landmarks, Mt Peter & Paul.

Pictures

399. Hot Evening Flight over Flooding Rivers, Jun 25, 2022

It was the first very hot day and in this case evening, 30C (86 F) at 8 pm. I flew to check the status of our two major rivers flooding. It was a bit let down, because the water level was lower then previous night. This is good news that the predicted, half century flooding will not happen. We cannot do victory lap, because the nature could always surprise us with own quirks.

It was very good flight and the resulting video, fully annotated is showing it. I really like to read your comments, which is the only reward for my hours of hopefully not wasted life.

Pictures

398. Flying over Flooding S Thompson River from Chase for Kamloops Lake. Jun 20, 2022

I flew 150 km in early morning to see the state of the South Thompson River. This followed my previous flight (video) in Jun 11, 2022 over N Thompson River.

The flooding of N and S Thompson rivers is an annual event. Each spring those rivers change from shallow rivers with many islands, beautiful beaches and interestingly sculptured sand bars into raging rivers (almost like small lakes) flooding many low laying fields and areas. Time to time they create disaster floods as marked on the attached photo of the historic floods. So far, the rivers are at annual flood, but forecast is for disastrous flood in the level of 1972. It was very relaxing flight above all green and yellow terrain except usual and sudden turbulence to wake me up from my daydreams.

397. Flying over Kamloops Flooding Rivers in Turbulence. Landing Experiment. Jun 11, 2022

An unusually colder spring delayed snow melting in the mountains. Finally we had several very warm days and mainly nights which is now accelerating the snow melting. The rivers cannot keep up and so we are expecting some serious floods. I flew to check it out. The North and South Thompson rivers are already spilling out in the low laying areas. It was almost relaxing flight until I hit serious turbulence in the 7:30 morning sun heat. This cut into my original plan.

I did also my pre landing experiment to lower the effect of dark and hot runway in the middle of green and cold grass. It really took an age from usual unpleasant turbulent landings. My experiment worked.

396. Flight to Buse Lake Area in Sudden and Crazy Turbulences. May 29, 2022

Early morning flight into a special natural rock formation in very weird weather. I started with no wind, which was changing up to 53 km/h. The flying was from very relaxing to instant heavy turbulence. Landing was interesting too with head wind speed from 52 km/h to no wing within 1000’ elevation difference. I was hoping to fly close to the Buse Hill rock face, but the weather conditions there were too risky.

Pictures

395. Beautiful Flight to Paska and Other Lakes. Playing in the Clouds. May 24, 2022

Super flight to Paska Lake Recreation Resort, low level fluffy clouds to Ajax mine and Kamloops area.

394. Beautiful Flight to Roche Lake Area. May 21, 2022

This was one of my best flights over many lakes, meadows, hills and valleys. The sky was sprinkled with scattered clouds creating interesting patterns of shadows down below. The flight was mix of relaxation to full attention from turbulence. It was also my best landing with zero kinetic energy into my wheels. I was impressed.

393. Turbulent Flight to Deadman River Valley, May 17, 2022

The flight was almost relaxing until I entered the Deadman Valley (NW of Savona, BC). I experienced very good turbulence dance and on few occasions “trap door open” feelings. I was pushed up at 1000’ per minutes in one location. There were now clouds above me. Overall, it was very good flight in, as always, spectacular nature.

392. Flying between Battle Bluffs and Harper Ranch in Heavy Turbulence, May 10, 2022

My original plan was much more ambitious, but I had to change it due to increasingly more unpleasant turbulence. Terrain is more beautiful with greens covering the majority of its surface. My flight is over the most beautiful natural area of Kamloops showing the diversity and complexness of our nature.

391. Flying to Tobiano, Savona Mt, Tunkwa Lake, Logan Lake, Lac Le Jeune, Ajax, Petersen Creek, Apr 23, 2022

Flying 145 km round trip through some spectacular and also sad scenery. The SW portion of my flight was over the remnants of the devastating 2021 forest fire(s). It looks interesting, but also very sad. The small town (pop 2500) Logan Lake was the center of unwanted attention during that fire. The people saved themselves by installing external sprinkler systems on their structures. It was very close call.

I captured also different and complete view of Tobiano and nearby hoodoo areas. East side of Mt Savona looks very interesting.

I flew over several still frozen lakes around Lac Le Jeune. I had an opportunity to spot the three large flocks of cranes, but much lower then I was flying. I made a few attempts to get closer, but they were faster in their maneuvers. They were very well aware of my presents above them.

I made closer aerial video of the Petersen Creek canyon and Kamloops downtown. Don’t forget to watch the river underwater structures, my popular and continually changing nature beautification. It was very good flight

390. Flying to Louis Creek, Whitecroft and Heffley Lake, Apr 15, 2022

It was very nice flight through the backcountry in deep valleys. In 2021 fire season the Whitecroft was in unwanted center of attention when it was part of very bad forest fire. The fire result could be seen in video. It was very close to the Whitecroft village and just barely separated from the very popular Sun Peaks Ski Resort, the 2^nd largest ski resort in Canada. We were very lucky.

Nice view of still frozen Heffley Lake.

The landing was as expected, hairy. There was no reported wind at the airport, the air was about 5C, but the dark runway was heated to perhaps to 15C. This created very unpleasant turbulence near the runway surface. I also felt twice sudden push from the back, which was the first one for me. I was bounced in every direction, which is not very pleasant experience few feet from the ground.

389. Round Flight to Merritt BC through Beautiful Nicole Valley, Mar 29, 2022

I few to small city airport in Merritt. Merritt was seriously damaged during the autumn 2021 flooding. Some houses and properties were destroyed. I could not see much of that effect from the air. Merritt is located in beautiful mountain surroundings and connected with famous Coquihalla Hwy well known from reality TV show Highway thru Hell. I flew over the city and stopped for brief chat with local pilot, changed camera battery and flew back close to “Highway thru Hell”. Sun heat started thermal turbulence already (11 am), but it was not too bad. It was very nice, 190 km long flight.

Pictures

388. Exploring Kamloops Area Natural Beauty, Mar 24, 2022

I am presenting fantastic beauty of the Kamloops NE Ridge area. I flew above 3 herds of wild horses grazing in very picturesque setting. It was windy, but not gusty day to have very good flying experience. Join me to see what only a few people could experience.

Pictures

387. Flying back from Cache Creek Challenging Airport, Part 2 of 2. Mar 16, 2022

This is second leg of my flight as describes in video #386. I was not looking forward to take off due to high wind in about 45 deg to my left. It was bumpy, but not too bad. Trip scenery is always spectacular, because it is very diverse. It is very complex terrain all around us. I wish it was a bit green to make it more colorful, but it is still too early for that. The flight was very easy and smooth except, of course, just above Kamloops runway. The sun was already cooking and with no wind, there were very good thermals all the way down.

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386. Flying to Cache Creek Challenging Airport, Part 1 of 2. Mar 16, 2022

The weather was just great with blue sky to fly 45 min west to small, single runway, mountain type airport. I was following Thompson River valley, over Tobiano, Savona, Walhachin and Cache Creek. This flight was over relatively safe terrain for some emergency landings. The airport location creates challenging (to say it mildly) landing conditions. It is the place where all kind of mountain wind streams are colliding. I am used to an “unlimited” space at Kamloops airport, so everything else looks very small from the air and it looks really small. The short and narrow runway is surrounded by Coastal Mountain Ridge, snow covered on the west, deep and relatively narrow, sun heated valley on the east. South side is even worse with a hill then narrow valley and then steep up to the runway edge. I was not trilled with stacked up concrete barriers just of the west side of runway. I had a hard time to spot the wind sock. Eventually I spotted straight line of the wind sock, indicating the wind speed is at least 25 knots from south. I was considering skipping the landing, but eventually I did landed there. I stayed just a few minutes to replace battery in one camera and take some pictures. There is practically nothing around, because of the 2018 devastating area fire.

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385. Exploring North Thompson River with Insta360 One X2 Camera. Mar 6, 2022

I had very nice flight while testing additional features of my new camera, Insta360 One X2. In this video, I used explanatory comments of tested features.

Pictures

384. Super Day over Super Nature – The Way the Birds See It. Mar 3, 2022

It was unbelievable sunny day with very complex sky and complex ground. Dark and still some snow covered surface created indescribable nature complexness which would be a big challenge for any artist to paint. I tested my Insta360 One X2 camera in another location, but I am still not happy with the result. The next time I will mount it on the wing. This video plays into classical music, creating relaxing mood. The last few years of camera technology progress surprises me every time I view my videos. Let me know if you like it.

383. Testing my New Camera Insta360 One X2, Part 2 of 2. Feb 18, 2022

Side mounted camera vibrated too much in previous video. This time I mounted it up front on the trike nose. Resulted video, which looks like globe must be edited into viewable clips to be integrated and synchronize with other GoPro cameras. A big advantage is that I could keep horizon level in turns. This has to be done manually in post editing process. Also the GoPro camera video could be speeded up max 3x without too much of extra distractions. Faster it plays more jerking it become. I tested the Insta360 in speed 8x faster, which translates into perceived flying speed of 960 km/h (597 mph). I was very impressed with the results. This and part 1 videos just test the features. I will be very careful not to be sucked into gimmicks. The bottom line is that camera is very impressive.

Pictures

382. Testing my New Camera Insta360 One X2, Part 1 of 2. Feb 18, 2022

Just bought the Insta360 One X2 camera and testing it in two positions. In this test it is on my side long mount. The bracket is long but it is vibrates too much.

I am learning totally new field of editing. This camera is actually two cameras together taking 360 global views. I have to edit individual views, play speed, horizon angle correction in turns…, just more time to kill. I also wanted to know if it will integrate with my GoPro cameras. So far it works. This and part 2 videos just test the features. I will be very careful not to be sucked into gimmicks. The bottom line is that camera is very impressive.

Pictures

381. Interrupted Flight due to Heavy Turbulence and Strong Wind. Feb 10, 2022

It was beautiful sunny day with no wind and +2C (36F). I was planning to fly to different airport, Merritt BC. I noticed over Knutsford area my ground speed was 177km/h (110mph)!! Wow, that’s the first one! I was pushed by 65km/h (40mph) tail wind. Such a drastic change between elevations.

I knew that I would have hard time to fly in that headwind back. It was decision time: Should I or shouldn’t I? Suddenly terrible turbulence started which bounced me very good. It decided for me. I turned back and was inching towards Kamloops while being kicked by the Mother Nature. I heard from another pilot that it is decent at 7000ft, and it was. Practically no turbulence but painfully slow progress in that 65km/h headwind. GPS was showing that I am still moving, but I have no sense of motion from my elevation. I was not looking forward the fly down through that nastiness, but it was not bad west of the airport. Eventually I made it through into total calmness. Wow. What an experience.

Pictures

380. My Best Flight to Harper and Sun Peaks Ski Hills. Feb 6, 2022

This was my age depressing, 75^th birthday flight. I needed to take some edges of those “It’s over life feelings”. Fortunately, the weather was perfect to relax in the air. I flew first to Harper Mountain Ski area, showing our smaller ski hill. The next on my list was the 2^nd largest ski area in Canada, Sun Peaks. I made several fly-arounds to show the vastness of that enormous playground region. The visibility was very good to see 100 km or so all around. It is not boring and uniform terrain, but very complex and diverse configurations in all directions. Bring your coffee, sit down and watch our beauty from very unique perspective. Watch it on large screen of smart TV. It is worth it.

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379. Day to Explore Natural Beauty of Kamloops, SW and NW Areas. Jan 24, 2022

This was one of the best days for winter flying with smooth air and very little weather surprises. I flew over many frozen lakes and mountain ridges, eventually view Kamloops form 8,000’ elevation from over the NW Ridge. https://youtu.be/9K_CWbdOuc8

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378. Beautiful Winter Flying in N Thompson Valley, Jan 18, 2022

Nice flying day to get some fresh air and have fun with it.

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377. Kamloops First Flight in 2022. Relaxing, Awesome and Turbulent, Jan 15, 2022

After long period of very cold weather, the Mother Nature smartened up with quickly disappearing snow and above freezing temperatures. Patches of the disappearing snow created very interesting ground patterns with awesome results. It was very good flight at totally relaxing mode, but also with some shaking up turbulence. New camera mount and view angle.

376. Kamloops Winter Beauty, Dec 19, 2021

It was cold, but sunny so it looked very inviting to go flying. We received some snow, but wind formed many high drifts. I spent more then hour to shovel my access to runway.

I started at -7C (19F), but ended up at -10C (14F). I found that all my 4 GoPro cameras were off when landed, while batteries showed 100%. This was serious letdown. Eventually I learned that Hero 7 cameras are good only down to 0C (32F). Previously I had few unintended cameras off at minus 5C, but I thought it is the usual GoPro quirk. They definitely did not like -10C (14F). BTW, it is nor written in the manual. I Goggled it. Regardless, I have only half on my flight which sill shows Kamloops in its full winter beauty. My, high tech and expensive Volt heated gloves were also disappointing. I did not feel any difference between my regular mitts and these gloves. My thumb and 1^st finger were still getting numb.

Pictures

375. Low Level Flight over Kamloops Downtown, Tobiano and Spectacular North Ridge, Dec 6, 2021

It was perfect flying day at -6C (21F) and some fresh snow. I was lucky again not to worry about wind nastiness and turbulences, so I could enjoy closer (then normally) proximity of Kamloops area natural beauty. I have good views of snow covered Tobiano. I then crossed the Kamloops Lake to Frederick area and followed steep cliffs and deep valleys around the Battle Bluffs. I flew those areas many times, but every time I discover something new. It is never boring for me.

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374. Low Level Flight over Kamloops Downtown, Mt Peter & Paul and Frederick Road, Dec 3, 2021

The weather was perfect for low level flying without worrying about turbulence and wind flow over different hills. I follower Petersen Creek bike path, then to Mt Peter and Paul to show how big it is on the top. The next points were low level flights over Mt Mara, Battle Bluffs and surrounding hills and valleys. Finally I follow the Frederick Rd to small off grid residential area, Frederick by Kamloops Lake. This road has very steep grades, sharp turns and twists, which would be very challenging to drive for many people. It appears that it is not big deal for Frederick residents to drive their big, bus like, motorhomes and big holiday trailers. That area is spectacular.

373. Low Level Exploration of Phenomenal Walhachin Area, Nov 26, 2021

The river banks of Walhachin (small village west of Savona, BC) area are very interesting natural formations. The banks are very steep and with perfect angle of repose. They look like made by a landscaping company with army of people raking those slopes by hand. The river is relatively flat so the river meandered in many snake like patterns and carved those 3D twisted slopes. I attempted several times before to fly low there. This time, the air conditions were perfect to allow me to have closer look. It was fantastic experience. I followed the north ridge of Kamloops Lake which is on its own a special experience of complex and diverse terrain.

I made mistake in my video labeling: What I noted there as Juniper Beach RV Park is in fact the Rock and River Rustic Retreat located in Thompson Rivers Estates. Juniper Beach is further to the west.

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372. The Best Time to Fly; First Snow Made Everything Even More Beautiful, Nov 19, 2021

I love this time of the year: Fresh snow, blue sky and no wind and turbulence. The snow really enhances the Kamloops area interesting and complex terrain into even more interesting patterns. It highlights every crack, ridge, dips, road, trail… in contrast white and brown colors. It looks like photos enhanced by a paint program gimmicks. It was supper flight above and around clouds. I used very relaxing, lazy weekend music for your enjoyment.

371. Flight over the most Beautiful Areas in Kamloops, Nov 13, 2021

It was beautiful flight with some serious turbulence too. I covered areas in Dufferin, Aberdeen, Rosehill, Barnhartvale, Harper Ranch, NE Ridge, North Shore and Brock. Check my guided excursion made into relaxing music.

Pictures

370. Guided Tour through Kamloops Area Beauty, Oct 31, 2021

I think that this is one of my best videos. Slow and low over North Ridge popular hiking areas, Lac Du Bois Grasslands Westsyde, Bachelor Heights. I paid a special attention of slow flying over Ground Zero of “Indian Residential School” awareness. This Kamloops beautiful area become center off world wide attention after finding of potential school children unmarked graves. This unfortunate event exploded into movement right across Canada. It become as symbolic with “Every Child Matters” as the USA “Black Life Matters”. I posted some links under my YouTube video for more info. Canadian PM visited that site and even Pope will visit Canada in 2022 with big hope that he will visit Kamloops, Ground 0 of those, unfortunate historical events.

Info Links:

https://tkemlups.ca/

https://nctr.ca/

https://www.bcachievement.com/2020/09/29/every-child-matters-the-meaning-behind-orange-shirt-day/

Enjoy relaxing and even upbeat music. Watch it on large screen for better experience.

369. Relaxing Flight over Beautiful Countryside of Knutsford Area, Low Level Downtown and More, Oct 30, 2021

Chilly, sunny and no wind morning flight over some of the most beautiful areas of Kamloops. I covered NE ridge by Sun Rivers, south across Dallas to west ridge of Campbell Creek Rd, Beresford lakes, above clouds in SE Knutsford area, close up of Ajax mine, Jacko and Inks lakes, close look over Aberdeen, downtown and many more places. Just listening to the video classical music is experience on its own. Check it out.

368. Challenging and Turbulent Adventure Flight around many Kamloops Lakes and Provincial Parks, Oct 19, 2021

It was fun, but a bit challenging flight. I had to wait till 1 pm for sky to open and it really did. Still a bit hazy, but happy, sunny day.

I flew through 4 provincial parks and around 14 (annotated) lakes. I experienced totally relaxing flight in no wind, 55 km/h (34 mph) headwind to 85 km/h (53 mph) tail wind and all this within 15 min. A significant portion of the flight was in turbulence, but it was not as scary to me as it used to be before.

Half of my flight was above burned out forest section which was significantly destroyed during 2021 summer Tremont Creek fire. There is a lot of evidence how the fire progressed to small town Logan Lake (pop 2070). Logan Lake was lucky that the village survived. It was very close call for them and stressful time for all of us in Kamloops region too. It is enjoyable video with nice scenery and relaxing music.

367. Flying to Tobiano and Spectacular River Sandbars. Oct 14, 2021

This was my second flight of the day. The first flight was very turbulent and so I was hoping for something more relaxing. It started in very good weather and smooth air up to a point. Eventually it became very turbulent, just west of Tobiano. In this video, I spent more time in low level flight above the Kamloops famous sandbars. They are spectacular and never the same. I call them famous, because I make the famous. You cannot see it from the ground level. You have to be high above the water, but not too high to lose all those underwater detail. My craft is ideal to see all that natural beauty. The best is to watch this video on TV or large monitor. Phone is not enough to appreciate what is hidden from you.

366. Flying into Very Sudden and Nasty Turbulence. Oct 14, 2021

I found (eventually), that I had cracked and leaking fuel tank. I almost run out of fuel during my Johnson Lake flight (Video # 364), with just 5 L remaining after landing. It was mystery why I used 2x as much fuel as it is normal. I did not find any fuel leak even after another flight, which showed normal fuel consumption (Video # 365). Only 2^nd day after that I found puddle of gasoline on my hangar floor. Regardless, this flight was my test flight after the tank welding repair. I stayed close by the airport, just in case I need to go back. Everything was good except very nasty turbulence in two very specific occurrences. I flew into air boundary where wind changed direction from east to west. This is very typical in our area, fortunately not too often during my flights. Check it out. You could see and appreciate that spectacular scenery when view it on large TV.

365. Short and Sweet Aerial Video from between Kamloops and Walhachin. Oct 6, 2021

Short video of Kamloops area natural beauty. It includes West of Kamloops, Tobiano, Savona and Walhachin area. Video plays with good mood music.

364. Flying above Beautiful Landscape to Johnson Lake. Oct 1, 2021

We came back from holiday into very beautiful fall weather, big contrast to smoke ravaged air from the summer forest fires. I flew to Johnson Lake, which supposed to be one of the best area in BC. I tried to verify that claim in that afternoon on my all terrain motorcycle. I choose wrong road which lead me into very difficult terrain, while GPS did not work there. So, I have to try again soon.

The flight was very relaxing over low cloud/fog in the river valley, forming spectacular views. The steep hills were filled by fall colors, while horizon Dunn Peak area mountains were in the fresh snow. The terrain bellow is beautiful, but very hostile in any emergency. It would not be fun with engine out there.

363. One of the Best Days to Fly through 200 km of Kamloops Area Beauty. Sep 2, 2021

We had 1.5 month of terrible forest fires all around BC, poor or no visibility and serious restrictions where and how to fly. Everything suddenly changed. Crisp clear, but cold morning provided perfect weather to do some local exploration. My original plan was to fly to Johnson Lake, but all valleys in that area were under low level clouts. These clouds provided special attractive feature into our complex and exciting landscape. It was like flying in the dream land with all those peaks sticking out from the milky fluffs in the valleys. It was also trilling to fly again over our famous and always changing sand bars appearing from the continually dropping water lever in South Thompson River.

362. Flying over Tremont Creek Fire Ravaged Area (Mt Savona, Tunkwa Lake, Logan Lake…). Aug 24, 2021

Interesting birds views of Tremont Creek fire, the east side of burned out areas. The fire started in July 12, 2021, 27 km west of where I was flying, burning solid for 2 weeks. I did not use in this video my usual short cuts, but I kept continual views from my full view front camera.

It is interesting to note that not everything is burned out. The fire is actually very choosy and the result is patch work of black/brown and green areas.

I started east of Mt Savona then follow close to Tunkwa Lake Rd to Leighton and Tunkwa Lakes. That recreational complex was in serious jeopardy, but the nature and firefighters’ action spared that community from major damage. The next I flowed to Logan Lake village, where fire was just behind some residential back yards. Fortunately, the residents did very good fire prevention measures, including water sprinklers installed on roofs. Again combination of prevention, fire fighting and nature kindness spared this community from disaster. There were many smoking areas all around my flight path. I continued NE over results of the Durand Lake fire, to east of Kamloops and then back to airport. I was very unique experience for me to see the first time this side nature power. Pictures

361. Kamloops in the Middle of Wild Fires from 11, 340 ft. Aug 18, 2021

It looked like nice weather for change, but it did not last very long. I was planning to fly to Merritt, but right after take off I saw it would be impossible. The smoke on south site of the city was so thick that the upper Kamloops was totally covered with zero visibility for me. I change my plan to fly just around Kamloops. Very bad smoke was up to 5,500’ ASL. Eventually I ended up 10,000’ above airport, 11, 340’ ASL. The wild fire smoke created interesting patterns among to various peaks and valleys. It was good flight.

360. Kamloops, Walhachin, Barnhartvale in Clear Sky while Surrounded by Wild Fires. Aug 9, 2021

Exceptionally nice weather with good visibility, rarity in these days when Kamloops is surrounding by many out of control fires. I flew west to Walhachin and then at 8,500’ east of Kamloops.

359. Kamloops Area is Burning – Extremely Smoky Sky. Aug 6, 2021

I could not wait to get back into the sky. We are here in Kamloops in the middle of serious forest fires with many areas evacuated or ready to go. The air is loaded with smoke and ash. After almost 3 weeks of solid smoke, I felt that it was a bit break in the situation to check how this area looks also from the above.

The visibility was very poor with two lines above horizon: smoke line at around 7000’ and very close above it the cloud line. I could not go higher then 8,500’ to have clear view, because the clouds were low. There was certain beauty in this ugliness and very spooky feeling. The visibility was very bad on the way back.

358. My Record Adventure Flight to 3669 m / 12,004 ft. July 17, 2021

I took off into smoky (forest fires) skies in west direction to check on developing and existing, out of control fires. Previous day, I visited some those effected places by motorcycle and now it was the time for the distant bird view. I had to climb to over 3048 m / 10,000 ft to just clear the smoke layer to see distant fires. I hit the smoke wall above Savona bridge and had to turn around. The view was spectacular with very distinctive smoke line between north and south. The smoke in some areas looked like famous Australian spider invasion covering vast areas in webs. The north was 100% in smoke and south 95% beautifully clear. Even Durand Lake, still listed as out of control was looking very peaceful and no trace of any smoke. I was flying east at 3505 m / 11500 ft above Kamloops area well blanketed in smoke. I called in two fires (just in case) in SE direction from hwy 5A. I could not see anything from Spark Lake and Sunpeaks area fires. Eventually I ended up at 3669 m / 12,004 ft, which I notices at home when loading GPS data. This was my new altitude record. I spent almost 1 hour in 5C / 41F and I was just comfortably cold until on my descend back to airport. I was getting into serious shiver. 24C / 75 F on the ground was very pleasant for change. I flew also over 3 arson fire areas (annotated). We don’t have enough of fire misery here, people must create more.

357. Flight in very Smoky Air. July 14, 2021

We have 320 wild fires burning in BC. The air was loaded with thick smoke, which looked worse with the increasing elevation. It was decent when I left home, but it was changing quickly. I ended up with fire ash covering my front camera lent.

I wanted to check the latest fires (from distance, of course), but the west side was like wall of smoke. The east side started to get very turbulent, when I reached the valley level when the latest fire was burning. I turned around and cut this flight short. The video still turned out interesting, with rising sun just slightly poking through like orange ball and layers of smoke of different colors and shades.

Pictures

356. Kamloops Area on Forest Fires. July 6, 2021

We have in British Columbia (BC), which is the most western province (state) in Canada, 199 active forest fires as of July 7, 2021. We had very close call on Canada Day (July 1) when the serious heat turned into serious thunderstorm which started many fires. I was watching from our window 3 lightning strikes which also started forest fires. The worst case became forest fire near Juniper Ridge subdivision. It was scary to see when whole valley, which is steep and crispy dry was on fire during the night. At the same time, we were also lucky, because the thunderstorm brought also heavy rain in some places. Juniper Ridge fire was that lucky place, where rain saved us from deadly disaster. I made several flight passes over that subdivision. I started west of Kamloops where there are 2 major fires which covered whole region in heave and dense fire smoke.

I had to go up to almost 10,000’ to clear the smoke.

355. Early Morning Hot and very Turbulent Flight. June 26, 2021

I took off at 6:30am at 26C, no ground wind and perfectly sunny day. It quickly changed into 30 km/h headwind and very unpleasant turbulence, which was coming in serious bursts. I was looking for different elevations, but it was actually getting warmer with height and more unpredictable higher up. Eventually I did not want to push my luck and turned back I could feel the hot blast from the concrete runway during landing. The air temperature was already at 28C

354. Last Day of Spring, Hot Evening Flight. June 20, 2021

I took off soaked in my own sweat at 7:45 pm and 28 C (82 F) and almost cold at 2290 m (7,500’) at 17 C (63 F). It felt at about 1000’ above ground while coming down like opening oven and walking through it. It was good flight above our nature beauty which is all aground us here in Kamloops region.

353. Flying to Roche Lake Area, June 17, 2021

Explored new region to me, which is set of lakes around Roche Lake recreational area. It is SE of Kamloops. It was beautiful flight with forest fire smoke hanging in the valleys, making the distant mountains and peaks sticking out into interesting patterns.

352. Checking Flood Situation of our Rivers and Terrible Turbulence, June 6, 2021

I started at 6:30 am to avoid thermal turbulence, but it did not help. Within 5 km the situation changed almost instantly from peaceful to dangerous. I had to cut short my original plan to check the both Thompson Rivers and their critical water levels. The river banks are more then full. The most visible effect is close to South Thompson delta to Kamloops Lake. The land and pastures are deep under water. You could compare the difference between low water levels in my video # 341 (https://youtu.be/nLLc8NRD7kI).

351. Challenging Flight to Dunn Peak Mountain Area, May 22, 2021

This was my 2^nd flight (https://youtu.be/3pdqw_gorPY) to the highest mountain peak in this region. The flying conditions here are by default unpredictable and they change within minutes or few kilometers. I took off at 6:40 am to beat the sun generated turbulence. The flight started right off the deck with turbulence getting progressively worse. I was contemplating to call it off and suddenly everything stopped into very peaceful flight. I flew up to Dunn Peak near Little Fort, BC and then turned east climbing up to 3139 m (10,300’). Luckily it was even warm over the show covered mountains at +3C (37F). I always worry about my fingers which go first to indicate they have enough.

The mountain area is spectacular and huge. I spent more time there then in 2019, to record and absorb all that beauty. How lucky I am to do this! I wish I could take a busload of people with me to share my experience there. I was glad when I was back in the river valley, back to civilization. The mountains are spectacular, but potentially dangerous. The return flight was peaceful down to Barriere village, then another challenging spot to overcome through the canyon valley and then turbulence really started. I was flying lice garbage bag in the wind. There was no return for me; I had to carry though it. Everything stopped again in about 15 minutes. Landing was another issue when landing on hot dark runway. I was bounced there very well.

350. Morning, 128 km Fight in Kamloops Area Beauty, May 16, 2021

I discovered new (to me) lakes, meadows, hills and plains in this spectacular region, lucky to be living in.

349. Early Morning Fight Joined by another Homebuilt, May 11, 2021

This was different and very unique experience for me. I was joined by another local pilot in his beautifully built Zodiac homebuilt aircraft. We took of at 6:30 am to avoid turbulence from the powerful Kamloops sun and headed north to Barriere village. We started with short briefing what and how to do it safely. I was lead, because of all my mounted cameras and he supposed to fly in the cameras views. It started a bit bumpy, but eventually it turned out into very pleasant flight through the beautiful North Thompson River valley. We had 147 km of fun at 8C above freezing.

348. Beautiful Flight to Sun Peaks and South Thompson Rive, May 5, 2021

This early morning flight was very relaxing and enjoyable. I took off early and 6:30 to beat the powerful sun heat and of course turbulence as shown in my previous video. This made the trick. My first leg was east, straight into very low rising sun. I felt like Lindbergh in his Spirit of St. Louis. I could see nothing with that sun shining directly into my face through the windshield and my helmet visor. I had to look sideways to see where I am going. Everything changed when I turn north towards the Sun Peaks. The Sun Peaks Ski Resort is the 2^nd largest ski area in Canada after Whistler, BC. I did several passes above the hills and village and departed south towards South Thompson Rive. The river valley is one of the most beautiful area in Kamloops region. It looked even more beautiful with the sun in my back and perfectly blue sky in front of me. I saw three groups of wild horses there.

I landed and taxied to my hangar at 8 am and suddenly, like if someone turn switch on, the wind started to blow but only in the east part of the airport. The wind sock in the west side was still limped. It was very good flight

347. Flight in Terrible Turbulence but Beautiful Weather, May 2, 2021

My plan ended up totally differently from the original one. I started in calm, sunny and warm weather, but it changed quickly into very nasty and few times terrifying turbulences. I was looking into different elevations but no luck. I made it just 20 km north from the airport, just 1/3 of my planning distance to Bonaparte Lake. I decided to give it up, before it would be too late. I turned east to North Thompson River which I followed back to Kamloops and to Knutsford area. It was very bad there too. But I have very good and bouncy video.

346. Beautiful, Exciting, Intimidating and Turbulent Flight to Vidette, Apr 20, 2021

I followed Deadman Rd valley from Savona area to north to Vidette. The first part was over small fields and meadows in very deep valley. This peaceful flight eventually turned into flight over very (emergency landing) hostile environment. The air temperature at up to 6,000’ was +12C and very ripe for some nasty turbulence. There was still ice on some lakes below which helped turbulence to show its power. I was bounced very well. It was scary. I was even rehearsing what to do first just in case: press SOS on my Spot (satellite tracking device) and then pull the trigger of my ballistic parachute or the other way around. I was flying low over the ground on the way back. It was relaxing to watch winding Deadman river spilling already from its normal banks.

345. Beautiful Sunset Flight in Summer like Weather, Apr 17, 2021

I was thinking about this flight long time. I wanted to know how those navigation lights would look like in darkness. It was exceptionally warm evening from 24C to 19C and surprisingly no surprises from touchy Kamloops weather. I had fun

344. Beautiful Flight from Salmon Arm Airport to Kamloops, Apr 15, 2021

This is return leg of my 223 km cross-country flight, this time from Salmon Arm back to Kamloops. I chose more direct flight over the mountain, while very scenic it was also very hostile terrain to have power failure. The worst part for me is always the anticipation of worsening thermal conditions. This part of the Canada is so beautiful and definitely not boring to fly over and through it.

343. Beautiful Flight to Salmon Arm Airport, Apr 15, 2021

Very scenic flight following shore of famous and in summer popular Shuswap Lake to charming city of Salmon Arm. This is first part of my 223 km long cross-country trip. Return trip will be more challenging over hostile terrain and unpredictable weather condition.

342. 145 km Flight over Knutsford and Tobiano Areas, Apr 13, 2021

Very scenic flight over complex terrain and spectacular views. It was good day.

341. Flying to Chase, Apr 6, 2021

Very good flight east through South Thompson Rive valley, one of the most scenic area in Kamloops region. I hit one serious air hole on the way back, which was very quick awakening from relaxing flight.

340. Very Unpleasant Flight in Pure Turbulence, March 31, 2021

After several days of serious winds, this day was totally calm with blue sky and +8C. I was really looking forward to my cross country flight, but it was quickly clear that it will not happen. I was bouncing like yoyo as soon as I took off. I was in one continual turbulence which eventually made me nauseated. Four days before I flew on commercial flight (as passenger) in heavy turbulence, which was my second worse turbulence on commercial flight. I become air sick which I felt for 3 days. My flight only multiplied that sick in stomach feeling. At least I have very good video from just 30 min flight.

339. Very Nice Flight to Nicola Valley and Glimpse Lake, Mar 16, 2021

I took advantage of perfect weather to fly through spectacular BC countryside.

338. Flying in Campbell Creek Valley to Barnhartvale, Mar 9, 2021

I attempted to fly this valley several times already, but the non cooperating weather always changed my plans. I was lucky this time. It is very nice area which I explored on motorcycle from ground up. It was time to do it from the air. The valley is usually very windy with crazy turbulence, because the air is compressed into narrow and winding trough. One of my 4 cameras did not record anything, so I lost one view, but I still have nice video into classical music.

337. Flying to Knutsford and North Ridge. Heavy Turbulence, Mar 2, 2021

It was decent day for https://youtu.be/xOV1d5IvHewflying with no wind at the Kamloops airport. I had an ambitious plan, which was quickly changed when I entered worsening turbulence. Kamloops has own unique micro weather, which is very unpredictable and challenging. The countryside is extremely beautiful with complex terrain. Several valleys are joining in one point right in downtown. This alone is usually not very good for predictable fun. Well, regardless, it was very good flight and I have this video to prove it.

336. Flying form Cache Creek in Exciting Flight, Feb 21, 2021

I was getting anxious to go back after 40 minutes flight from Kamloops. I did not want the weather change on me. I was already experiencing unpleasant turbulence when flying in.

I met another ultralight pilot there, Daniel Berwin who landed after me. He decided to follow me a bit and take some aerial pictures. It was nice change, because it is just 2^nd opportunity in my life to fly with somebody. Another excitement happened in about 10 minutes in my flight when I spotted another plane (Cessna) well down under me flying to Cache Creek. He really sucked the air from my track resulting good bump. I started in -2C in Kamloops landed in +6C in Cache Creek and +8C back in Kamloops. It was very good and exciting day.

335. Flying to Tobiano, Walhachin and Cache Creek. Good Turbulence, Feb 21, 2021

This was the first leg of my 1.5 hour flight to Cache Creek. I flew via golf and residential area high above Kamloops Lake, Tobiano and down in the valley on the end of Kamloops Lake, Savona. I continued in the complex valley of winding South Thompson River creating spectacular scenery. I flew over small historic village situated high above the river valley, Walhachin. I continued towards Ashcroft through to deep canyon of South Thompson River, but I felt in my bones that it would not be smooth sailing. The complex terrain and shifted winds create unpredictable flying conditions. Eventually, I had enough of bouncing around and got out before it would be too late. The Cache Creek Airport and its location are a bit intimidating. First it looks very small from the air especially when flying from Kamloops with such large airport runway. Secondly the location in the middle of the mountain slope creates good crosswinds and up or downdrafts by winds from the perpendicular valley. I met there another pilot, Daniel Berwin with his Zenair bird. We exchanged few Covid distant words and experiences. He followed me on my way back and took several pictures from his ultralight. It was nice.

334. Beautiful Winter Flight in Beautiful Wintery Kamloops, Feb 16, 2021

Finally, after several windy days of real winter in Kamloops, there was no wind and temperature just below freezing. It was beautiful flight after morning snow starting to melt on sunny sides. The contrast between the snow and bare surfaces creates unique enhancement of the Kamloops very complex topography.

333. Flying in Fresh Snow to Kamloops Juniper Ridge and Area, Feb 6, 2021

It was gorgeous day after overnight fresh show, blue sky and above freezing temperature. I took off downwind (~13 km/h) west, turned to east in totally calm air and in about 200 m higher I got into serious tail wind of up to 45 km/h from west. The wind was flowing simultaneously from opposite direction within short elevation difference. I flew over Juniper Ridge subdivision, which looks very flat from the air, but it is actually very hilly and assuming also challenging to drive those steep streets in winter. I explored Rose Hill and Knutsford area too. It was very good flight.

332. Experience with “GoPro Hero 9 Black” as a Prime Camera for Unrestricted Frontal View, Feb 2, 2021

I sold my GoPro Hero 7 and replaced the front full view camera with the latest GoPro Hero 9 Black. The reason is Hero 9 horizon lock to prevent horizon tilt when turning. Tilting horizon is annoying in my videos, so I always switch in those moments to side camera views. Well, the horizon lock did not work very well and actually it was very bad. I could use only few clips from this miracle Hero 9 camera. I return the Hero 9 back to store. Now, I need to buy another Hero 7 Black. I am showing examples of badness and my interpretation of how this horizon lock would not work in my case. I was hoping for steady “Super stabilized” views, so I could run video 4x faster without any distractions. I am sorry to report that the result was totally unacceptable. This is excellent camera for other application, but not for what I wanted it for. For that purpose Hero 7 Black is far superior. If you are considering to buying it for flying then you should watch this video.

331. Following North Ridge to Harper Ski Hill in Heavy Turbulence, Feb 2, 2021

I sold my GoPro Hero 7 and replaced the front full view camera with the latest GoPro Hero 9 Black. The reason is H9 horizon lock to prevent horizon tilt when turning. This was annoying in my videos, so I always switched at those moments to side camera views. Well, it did not work very well and actually it was very bad. I could use only few clips from this miracle camera. I return the Hero 9 back to store. Now, I wish to buy back my Hero 7 Black camera. I am looking. I will post me experience and example, why this camera is no good for aviation at least for full camera view without any part of airplane in the view. It was expensive experiment for me. I sold my like new camera cheap and most likely I will pay more and most likely for abused and bruised camera.

It was beautiful and calm (!) day, but not for long. Within of about 5 minutes it started kicking up and down. It was getting progressively worse on the way back. I was looking for some smoother air level, but there was nothing available for me. When I crossed the N Thompson River west, the peace returned again. At least I have good video.

330. Flying over North and South Thompson Rivers, Jan 29, 2021

I have very good video from cold flight. We had some traces of new snow, which makes the surrounding scenery more contrasting and more interesting.

329. Kamloops Aerial Photos: Peterson Creek, Downtown, North Shore, Brock - Slideshow, Jan 20, 2021

Pictures taken from the top (south) of Peterson Creek in small increments through downtown then west up to airport. Pictures are from video # 327

328. Beautiful Nicola Valley Aerial Photos - Slideshow, Jan 20, 2021

Pictures taken only in Nicola Valley during the flight shown in video # 327

327. Low Flight through the most Beautiful Valley in Kamloops Region, Jan 20, 2021

It was an excellent, but a bit chilly flying day. I tried several times before to fly low in the Nicola Valley, but it was always very drafty a of course unpredictable. I was lucky this time. This is one of the most scenic roads in BC and especially on motorcycle. It looks so peaceful from the road, but it is totally different from the air due to the complex terrain causing unpredictable winds and wind flows. I have very good video from one hour flight at 90 to 140 km/h ground speed.

326. Cloud Challenge to Keep within Clear Sky, Jan 15, 2021

The airport area was without clouds when I took off. As soon as I was above their level I could see that it would be wise to stay within that hole only. The clouds eventually cleared on the west side and open up also south. I flew over Ajax mine, Tobiano and sandbars. The flying conditions were very interesting. I could see just peaks of the Kamloops landmarks poking through to cotton balls. It was warmer by 5C just under the clouds then by the river. The ground was calm, but 40 km/h wind at 5000’.

325. Following South Ridge to Buse Hill and North Ridge to Sandbars. Turbulent Air, Jan 15, 2021

Finally after 16 days of warm, but very windy weather, the Mother Nature finally brought crispy, blue sky and no wind day. Masses of people enjoyed this sudden change together with several local flyers. I was planning to go for low and close aerial exploration of Buse Hill which looks very cool on its north side. I soon discovered that I would be lucky if I even make it there. The air was very bumpy with many very sudden kicks and pushes, which took a bit of optimism from my joy. I made it there, but I did not dare to go any close to it. The flight on the way back was not any better. I saw 9 wild horses on at the foot of North Ridge. I finished my flight with a victory lap over the river delta sand bars. They are amazing creation of nature, which could be seen only from the above, high just enough to see the underwater formations. When I landed I found out that my full view, front mounted camera refused to record. Those cameras are not very reliable. It was very good day anyway.

324. CBC Radio Interview with Me, Jan 7, 2021

This is radio interview with me about my flying in Kamloops. I turned it into a slide show to make it more enjoyable to watch. It was very good and I am happy how it turned out.

323. The Last Flight of Decade, Low Level over Downtown and North Shore, Dec 31, 2020

Very good video from the low level flight over the Kamloops key areas, like University, Aberdeen and Sahali shopping. After flight over Mt Peter and Paul I went down over the center of North Shore and Brock. Kamloops is very interesting no matter of weather or season. This is not visually boring city or region. I wish the 3D effect could be reproduced in 2D video. The terrain looks flat from the air, but in fact it is very hilly with steep streets, which are fun to drive on in the winter (not).

322. Flying to Savona-Deadman Rd Area via North Ridge and Tobiano, Dec 27, 2020

Another decent day to fly, with temperature just hovering around freezing, but sunny west of the airport. This is what I selected to fly; following the sun. The mountain views of the N-W Ridge are spectacular. The snow and bare area create pencil like drawings with so much details filling every pixel. It was beautiful. I flew above many eagles on South Thompson River.

321. Flying to Harper Mt Ski Area by South Thompson River, Dec 27, 2020

It was beautiful, sunny day to fly over just 2 day old snow covered terrain. This valley is the most picturesque area in the Kamloops region. I spotted again two groups of wild horses, but I could not find them when I was editing this video.

320. Following Hwy 1 to Tobiano in Low Level Flight, Dec 12, 2020

Finally, we had good flying weather with temperature a touch above zero. I was following TransCanada hwy #1 to Tobiano. This very winding road is carved through very nice hills and valleys while passing through the upper Kamloops on the hill. This used to be the main highway, before high mountain Coquihalla highway was built as short cut connecting Kamloops to Vancouver. There are nice views of still green Tobiano golf and residential area. Of course, I could not resist to do a few almost ground level passes over the South Thompson River sandbars. This is only way to see underwater nature creations, which look like very complex 3D carvings.

Pictures

319. What to Wear in Cold Weather, Nov 28, 2020

Several people posted on Facebook question about what to wear in winter while flying open aircraft. This short video shows what I wear and what works. I used to fly down to -25C (-13F), so I feel to be qualified to show what works.

318. Low level flight over Knutsford area and North Thompson River, Nov 28, 2020

I wanted to fly over 7 peaks south of the Campbell Creek. Unfortunately, very low cloud ceiling forced me to turn around and look for some better conditions. I flew north up to McLure, very low to get better view of my surroundings. Weather was excellent and flight very enjoyable. The video looks very good and I hope that at least people living in those areas would like it. Just after take of I felt me knees getting cold and realized that I forgot to put on my snowmobile (winter) pants. I flew 1.5 hours and I was a bit stiff, but not too bad. This trike is reasonably “warm”. I flew 1.5 hours at average ground speed of 121 km/h. That’s very good!

317. Flying to Sun Peaks to Check the Ski Season Opening Day, Nov 21, 2020

Sun Peaks Resort is the second largest ski resort in Canada. It is perfect playground for every person looking for year round fun. Sometimes it could get tricky to fly there, because the weather and especially cloud cover could change very quickly. This time I was lucky with perfect wintery weather. The radio communication with Kamloops control tower was vey busy with all other airplanes flying from and to all directions. Nobody wanted to waste the exceptional weather. The trip was uneventful, but of course spectacular, because it is Kamloops area, which is super spectacular, no matter where you look.

Sun Peaks from the top look like true Christmas Paradise even so it is another month till Christmas. I took good fly over and around for good video and picture taking views. I flew again very low over the airport area sandbars, to see the latest nature creations.

316. Flying above Kamloops Rivers, Nov 19, 2020

It was another beautiful day to go exploring the Kamloops nature from the above. I followed North and South Thompson Rivers, Kamloops downtown and of course I had to check the ever changing river sand bars. Flying low is the only way to see the underwater highly sculptures sand bars. If you want to see something which you most likely never have seen before, then watch this video and listen the background relaxing music.

Pictures

315. Flying in Quickly Changing Clouds Ceiling, Nov 10, 2020

We received real winter like snow, but sun started to peek through the clouds. I have to clear snow to get to the runway first, while blue sky was quickly shrinking. Traces of sun were replaced with white clouds pushing downwards and squeezing me out like a tooth paste. I was forced to turn around to just legal limit to avoid those clouds. I still have good video from around the downtown.

Pictures

314. Very Few People have Seen Kamloops Beauty from This Angle, Nov 6, 2020

I changed editing concept in this video and I think I will stick with it. I am using 4 GoPro cameras, which run continually. Previously I cut views in 5 sec clips, while cuts were synchronized with the music beat. My intent was to show all views, front, both sides and pilots view. Now, I run the front camera with full 170 deg horizontal view at 2x speed with minimum cuts. I use the other cameras views only in turns, because the front view does not look good because of the panning effect and horizon tilt.

The weather was exceptional with perfect Alberta blue sky and crisp, cold air at just +3C. It was a bit warmer up in the air at 6C. This video shows the spectacular Kamloops nature beauty and glacier beautiful terrain carving formations. Watch the video on large screen of TV to see all those details. The GoPro cameras (Hero 7 in my case) are so good these days that the results are incredible.

It would be nice if you leave me your comment, and tell me what you think about my video editing change.

Note: I have LG TV with 3D feature (3D glasses). I tried to turn TV on 3D and the view was amazing. I was very, very impressed. How is it done, to convert it instantly into fake 3D, without 3D cameras?

313. Glory, Optical Effect, During my Flight, Oct 31, 2020

Wikipedia: A glory is an optical phenomenon, resembling an iconic saint's halo around the shadow of the observer's head, caused by sunlight or (more rarely) moonlight interacting with the tiny water droplets that compose mist or clouds. The glory consists of one or more concentric, successively dimmer rings, each of which is red on the outside and bluish towards the centre. Due to its appearance, the phenomenon is sometimes mistaken for a circular rainbow, but the latter has a much larger diameter and is caused by different physical processes.

Glories arise due to wave interference of light internally refracted within small droplets.

312. Beautiful Flight along North and South Ridges, Oct 20, 2020.

After unexpected cold snap down to -11C, it was another beautiful day for flying. It is still pleasant to fly at +6C temperature and especially in my “warm” Apollo trike. The Apollo cockpit is very well designed to protect me from the element. It is big difference when compared with my previous AirBorne “cold” trike.

I followed North Ridge west, crossed Kamloops Lake south to Tobiano, then east to chase some clouds, north to downtown and Mt Peter and Paul. Finally, I turned west to Bachelor Heights to follow construction corridor of government Trans Mountain Expansion Project.

311. Flying with Spectacular Kamloops Clouds, Oct 20, 2020.

Late morning with -3C temperature and many different layers of clouds were too inviting to ignore. It was one of the most spectacular flights for me. I am so lucky to have almost 360 deg no obscured view from my trike so see that vast area beauty. I have never seen this type of clouds at the second cloud layer. You cannot see that from the ground, I felt like to jump into them and have some serious fun there. It was very good flight.

310. Flying to Tobiano and Mt Savona in the Best Scenery Ever, Oct 14, 2020.

It was one of my best flights ever. If you want to watch this video then do yourself favor and watch it on a large monitor or at least on a tablet. The phone screen is too small to really appreciate our natural beauty in Kamloops area.

All my cameras worked perfectly and the sun and clouds were in right places to capture the nature at its best. I was a bit sidetracked to check potential forest fire on western horizon. I made low passes over the edge of Mt Savona Provincial Park with spectacular rocky cliffs and top covered with the first autumn snow. You can see very, very long train snaking along the edge of Kamloops Lake and steep cliffs of the South Ridge. I also tested my new bar mitts, with temperature just 2C and my fingers were not frozen like with the original mitts which I shredded in the prop (see video: 306. This is how I Ruined my Flying Days, Aug 2, 2020.)

Pictures

309. Flying above Clouds to Ajax Mine and Tobiano, Oct 11, 2020.

Chilly morning at 3C, but sunny day brought smile to my face. I could fly and enjoy to Covid free time above Kamloops area beautiful nature. It was big contrast between the early summer green fields and slopes and current brown surfaces. It was still beautiful. Unfortunately, my front camera failed to record, so I don’t have any full nature views.

Pictures

308. My First flight after 2 Month Wait for New Prop Blade, Oct 6, 2020.

This was my first flight after the August unfortunate mistake (see Video # 306), which ruined 2 months of my flying days. I also changed this time the prop pitch from 9 to10 degrees. I set it correctly on the ground (when I bought this trike) to prevent potential engine over revving, but I found that in flight it would run about 500 extra RMP. My cruise speed now increased about 5 kn (10 km/h) at 5000 RPM, but I have to push the throttle harder. I think my fuel consumption will go up. I will see the next time during at least one hour flight.

It was short, just local flight, because the sky was still very smoky from the West coast USA fires.

307. Dean with his New Rev X Trike, Aug 15, 2020.

I came to see in real life the famous USA built trike Rev X, and meet its owner Dean Wichmann. It is very nice toy. Jade Waterhouse demonstrated his new 1974 Bellanka in very nice paint job. It was beautiful day at the Knutsford airstrip

Pictures

306. This is how I Ruined my Flying Days, Aug 2, 2020.

It was ideal weather for flying, but I wished I stayed at home. Just a few seconds after take off I felt like a wing cable broke off. Engine started to vibrate. Landed immediately and taxied back to my hangar where I saw what happened. One bar mitts was on the ground. I removed my winter bar mitts, because it was already 25C and put them on my rear seat bag. The mitts are very florescent bright, so they are difficult to miss, but I did. I forgot them behind my back.I checked for damage and there was just about ¼” of prop blade edge protection tape slightly damage. Checked the prop pitch values and the affected pitch was 1 deg off. I figured I got off very easy this time. I set up the pitch, started the engine and the vibration was the same. Now what? Hopefully it is not the engine. Eventually I found that the blade was cracked just on the edge of the blade hub. I was very lucky to be above the runway when this happened.

305. Pritchard to Kamloops Full Screen Aerial View, July 28, 2020.

This is just section from flight as per video # 303. It is unedited, full screen view from just front camera. The best is to watch it on large screen or TV to appreciate the natural beauty of that region in Kamloops area.

304. Sun Peaks Full Screen Aerial View, July 28, 2020.

This is just section from flight as per video # 303. It is unedited, full screen view of Sun Peaks, second largest ski resort in Canada. The best is to watch it on large screen or TV to appreciate the natural beauty of that region

Pictures

303. Flying to Sun Peaks and Chase Village, July 28, 2020.

My first really warm flying, because it was already 19C at 7 am. It was even 19 C at 2334 m (7625’). The sky was very hazy which looked even worse while flying against the raising sun. I made several passes over the Sun Peaks ski area which is the 2^nd largest ski resort in Canada. Sun Peaks is just 40 min driving from our house. This is real winter (summer too) paradise where I can snowboard whole day and be all the time on different slope. This is not boring place. I then turned SE towards Chase village with beautiful lake called Little Shuswap Lake. I followed South Thompson River from Chase back to Kamloops Airport. This is one of the best and very spectacular valley and especially about half way to Kamloops.

302. Flying Savona, Tunkwa Lake, Face Lake, Chuwhels Mt, Knutsford, July 20, 2020.

This was my 3^rd attempt to do the above loop. Finally sky was clear and conditions just right. It was very pleasant and relaxing trip. I am just showing snippets from this 136 km long flight, over very spectacular countryside. The terrain is very divers and complex. It is always pleasure to look around from the eagle perspective.

301. Flying to Barriere BC and Back over North Thompson River, July 17, 2020.

155 km long trip to small town Barriere about 60 km north of Kamloops. I flew first over North Ridge to join the North Thompson River valley. It is relatively safe way to fly as there are many meadows and fields for forced landings. The worst part is just south of the Barriere which goes through narrow valley with steep slopes on both sides. I could see that “new” islands are already appearing in the river while water level is going down after the annual river flooding.

Pictures 1, Pictures 2

300. Flying to Harper Ranch via Cold Creek with some Clouds to Enjoy, July 13, 2020.

I was anxious to try my new drag chute camera. I tried it the previous day, but the view angle was disappointing. I made new camera bracket which did its work. I was also anxious, because potential negative effect on flying characteristic. The camera is attached to “badminton style” basket and pulled on string attached to one side of the wing. This causes unsymmetrical directional force, resulting, as one pilot described, difficult to control in straight direction. I did not find any problems.

My plan was to fly to Sun Peaks, but I found that they were totally in clouds. I turned SE before Mt Lolo to stay clear of that cloud cover. I still had some fluffs to enjoy their company. I have very good video of Kamloops beautiful nature.

Pictures

299. Flying to Kamloops Downtown, Knutsford and Dew Point Areas. Heavy Turbulence, July 12, 2020.

Typical Kamloops weather, which is unpredictable. Originally I had different plan to fly, but unpleasant turbulence change it. It started as beautiful calm morning, but as soon as I crossed the North Thompson River, the turbulence started to harass me. It was getting progressively worse close I was towards Knutsford. Finally I had enough of it and decided to fly back south of the airport. It was very bumpy. Surprisingly, it became again very calm so I continue towards North Ridge. I explored Dew Drop hills tops. This is very popular hiking area, so I am giving people to see it from different angle and perspective. It was very good day.

Pictures

298. Checking Flooded South Thompson River in Kamloops, July 5, 2020.

I flew about 1500’ feel above ground to see the effect to the river flood. I started about 6 km east of Kamloops flying west to airport. North Thompson River was much calmer then a day before. I could not see any debris floating from the north, but the water was still very muddy. This contrasted in the rivers confluence where brown water from the north mixes with the South Thomson River, which is very clear.

Pictures 1, Pictures 2

297. Flying to Tobiano, Savona and Tunkwa Lake with Nice Clouds, July 5, 2020.

Beautiful day to be in the open air. It was still on colder side at 11 to 12C around 8 am, but sky was blue and eventually I met some fluffy clouds to enjoy. I had to change my original plan due to heavy and very intimidating cloud in front of me. It was very peaceful flight.

Pictures 1, Pictures 2

296. Flying to Savona in Turbulent and Hazy Air, July 3, 2020.

My original plan was to fly triangular cross-country, but the poor flying conditions changed my plan. I completed just one side of the triangle and decided to fly back. It started as beautiful and sunny morning, but the sky changed to overcast and very hazy before I got ready. I expected no turbulence, because thermal changes were very small. I was wrong. My trip turned few times and instantly from peaceful to nasty rides. I cut it short, because I did not want to push my luck.

I have still very good video with very good background music which will lift your feet in its rhythm.

Pictures
295. Flying across Nicola Valley to Douglas Lake, June 18, 2020.

170 km (106 mi) flight over beautiful area of rolling hills, deep valleys, many lakes and exceptionally green terrain. It is interesting how green it was. We are living in very dry climate, where everything is normally brown, except spring and early summer. It is amazing how the nature is rushing though its life to push itself to display all its beauty in very short period. My goal was to check the Douglas Lake area which was many times in local media displaying fight among local anglers and the owners of Douglas Lake Ranch. This small paradise on Earth is owned by American multibillionaire Stan Kroenke, who also owns the Denver Nuggets of the NBA, Los Angeles Rams of the NFL and the Colorado Avalanche of the NHL, among other sports enterprises.

294. South Thompson River Flooding Part 2 of 2, June 3, 2020.

This is unedited and complete aerial view from front camera only. It starts at 17 km east of Kamloops and ends at Kamloops Lake delta.

Pictures

293. North Thompson River Flooding Part 1 of 2, June 3, 2020.

This is unedited and complete aerial view from front camera only. It starts at 28 km north of Kamloops and ends by rivers junction in downtown Kamloops.

Pictures

292. Survey of North and South Thompson River Flooding, June 3, 2020.

Both Kamloops rivers are very ripe to cause some serious damage from their floods. Low laying areas are already submerged and the water is slowly creeping into Riverside Park. I flew straight north about 15 km and then flew above North Thompson River to downtown. Then I turned east and at 15 km I started my flight west above South Thompson River. The countryside is even more beautiful now when everything is green with many patched of yellow flowers. I notice that I left the neck camera on the back seat. It was major decision to land or to retrieve it in flight. I did it in flight.

Pictures

291. Fun with Clouds in Nicola Valley, May 27, 2020.

Beautiful flight, https://youtu.be/LoLslqEodxg

south of Kamloops, over green meadows, fields, hills and lakes. This area is always challenging for me to fly, because the conditions are very often unpredictable and changing quickly. It started with no wind, but turbulent, bumpy ride, eventually smooth and relaxing when flying over the clouds by Stump Lake. I almost wanted to jump into those fluffs, which reminded me my childhood dreams to do something like that.

Spectacular Kamloops downtown rivers junction valley displayed all its beauty and the complexness of that nature creation. I finally checked the Tranquille Farm are flood situation. It was perfect flight 90 min long and recorded by 4 cameras. I found very jumpy music as a background, to highlight my flying mood during that flight.

Pictures

290. Flying along North Ridge and Flooded Tranquille Farm, May 24, 2020.

I had totally different plan where to fly, but sudden and unexpected turbulence put dumper into my expectation. It started peacefully when flying east until I crossed the North Thompson River. It became unpleasant and especially to deal with the anticipation what would come next. Would it stay at lease the same of even worse? Eventually I decided to turn back without pushing my luck. Once I crossed that river again, everything stopped. It became enjoyable flight again. This is typical challenge of flying in Kamloops. I never know what will happen during my flight as far as weather is concern.

Pictures

289. Flying to Knutsford, Ajax and Flooded Tranquille Farm, May 19, 2020.

I decided that it is just about time to land on our grassy landing strip in Knutsford. I was very hesitant to do it, because the terrain is very bumpy and landing is up or downhill. This is very fast trike with landing speed of 90 km/h. I could land in much worse areas in the case of emergency, but this was not emergency and I didn’t want to create one.

Regardless, I did it and I was glad. I met there another trike pilot from Kamloops. It looks like we could do some flying together. See my previous video # 288. I spent there just few minutes, because I was anxious to fly back. The heat turbulence and upper winds were getting more unpleasant then I liked.

I flew over the AJAX gold mine which polarized Kamloopsiens into two groups: People who need money (jobs) and people who want to preserve Kamloops beautiful nature. Final place was to check the flood situation by river delta with Kamloops Lake at Tranquille Farm. This area is always the first one to end up under water. Kamloops is expecting major flood this year and we are on its way to go there and ahead of regular schedule.

288. My Trike in the Air, May 19, 2020.

When circling our flying club airstrip, I noticed another trike on the ground. I could not believe it. So far I was here just lonely ultralight flyer. That’s very good. New member who kindly took the pictures and video. I have tons of pictures and videos, but nothing of me from ground up. I was really impressed how fast this trike really is. It does not feel too fast when flying it.

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287. Flight from Kamloops to Brigade Lake, May 14, 2020.

A day before I explored very beautiful Knutsford area on my motorcycle. I decided to check it out also from the above too. I was not disappointed. No matted what you do, you cannot find boring areas around Kamloops. Then I flew a bit North above North Thompson River to check the developing flood area. City of Kamloops is getting ready for the big one. Almost all the river beaches are under water and my popular sand bars are all gone too. I flew over the Tranquille farm, which has significant section of land already under water.

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286. Flight from Merritt to Kamloops, May 8, 2020.

This is return trip of my previous video # 285. While I was cruising up to 145 km/h flying to Merritt, I could not reach even 100 km/h of ground speed when flying back. I took direction of the famous “Coquihalla Highway to Hell”. This section of highway is featured on continual TV reality serial about heavy rescues from serious crashed during quickly changing weather conditions there. My flight was also not too peaceful, because of large clear cut forest areas, with light brown color.

Those “patches” are much warmer then surrounding green forests, creating serious turbulence. It was bumpy and occasionally unpleasant.

285. Flight from Kamloops to Merritt BC, May 8, 2020.

It was very nice flight in one of those times which don’t happen very often. Warm day with blue sky and no wind. I decided to fly to Merritt following one of the most scenic roads in the Kamloops region, Nicola Valley around hwy 5A. I saw flooded road by Stump Lake, flooded area by Quilchena and Merritt. The beginning of the flight was turbulent air between the Kamloops and Nicola Valley with constant evaluation whether to continue or turn back, but then it was almost too good to wasted it. It was perfect and very enjoyable flight to Merritt airport. This video shows the first leg of my 190 km round trip flight.

284. Flight from Kamloops to Cache Creek, May 1, 2020.

Beautiful, early morning, 140 km long flight through Thompson River valley to Cache Creek village. I went to check the flooded area there, but it did not look too bad.

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283. Flight from Buse Hill to Kamloops, Uncut Version. Apr 19, 2020.

It is always the most difficult and time consuming process to edit my flying videos into short version for human consumption. The problem is that Kamloops area is one of the most beautiful parts of the world, with very diverse and complex countryside. There are no boring sections around which to cut off. Majority of people would take just 20 seconds of their precious time. I bring home 3 to 4 hours of video from my one hour flight. My target is about 3 minutes of final video, but it is not almost possible.

I also learn with my #273 video, that there are people with interest in nature and beauty presented to them in very rare and unique views which few people could experience. That video is my most popular flying video so far and it is long. The new GoPro camera technology (Hero 7) solved the most annoying problems of vibration and jello effect. Hero 7 camera has perfect stabilization producing spectacular HD and wide angle videos. One of my cameras is mounted on the front of the trike showing nothing but the beauty as I fly through it. That technology also allows me to speed up this video 2.5 to 3x so more information is presented in shorter time. Aerial videos are not easy to produce, because the perception of speed is diminishing with the elevation above the ground. Basically, it looks more boring higher I fly.

I am showing in this video flight in west direction, when the sun was behind or on my left side, exactly what I needed for good exposure. Sky was fully seeded with fluffy clouds casting spotty shadows over the hills and valleys. You could see there some spectacular views from about 1000’ above ground. You could appreciate the complexity of the terrain when you look around the screen. It was very good flight.

282. Flight to Buse Hill, Apr 19, 2020.

It was beautiful day to fly over Kamloops spectacular nature areas. I followed the North side of South Thompson River eastwards over deeply scarred terrain by the ancient ice movement. Then I turned south towards Buse Lake and Buse Hill. It is small wonder of the nature. Sky was fully seeded with fluffy clouds casting spotty shadows over the hills and valleys. It was very good flight.

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281. How to Set up SPOT to be Ready in Emergency with only the Last Track.

1. The company lost the original intent of SPOT, which is to call for help and find where you are. It is not to keep tracks of your trips, because GPS is far better for this purpose. 2. It uses confusing name Asset instead Device. It is device and it is very clear what device means. Asset will not make it better, just confusion. I thought that asset was set of points until SPOT agent told me that it is device. 3. Delete button and date filter were removed form the main screen. It is totally illogical to burry it deep in menus. I would never find it there without Company help. There is no manual or tutorial. 4. Current delete button, if lucky to find it, deletes everything. The date filter should be put back. 5. “Check in” button brings out tons of useless info and takes you to a useless place. I use SPOT for flying, the same like many other people I know. We all agree that the latest update is very bad and impossible to use. Many people are talking to switch to other devices. We are all 65 to 85 years old and many of my colleagues are scared of computers. The message delivers frightening presentation and especially when received on phone. The fonts are microscopic and impossible to read. Your default link arrives as a text of 3 lines with unreadable micro text. Did you try to select your 3 line link on phone and the paste it to address bar? 6. I and majority of my fellow pilots use the SPOT 7. I go flying, have to do some work there, waiting for weather until the good time to go. Before take off I press Check in. My message is sent to my wife to start to look after me just in case something goes wrong. She is not very computer skilled, but she is above average computer user. There is no way she could navigate though SPOT presented info which is buried somewhere in weird named menus. She is somewhere out and see the info only on the phone. She cannot see anything because it is unusable on the phone. She needs to see whole map and only map showing the current flight points and preferably with the last known point flashing. The actual coordinates could be read by clicking the point. After landing I press OK again to let her know I made it safely. 8. I found that https://maps.findmespot.com/s/K36V/4R is the perfect. This link or some other to produce the same result is needed. It is very clear and it should be always default. Everything else to be optional. Currently you get tons of info but the most important substance must be painfully discovered. 9. What is alert and what is its purpose? Check in, Help, SOS… are already alerts. Why do we need duplication? 10. The logging button within the map is also messed up. First, it says log out, but it means both. To log in it suggests my email, which is not my ID. As soon as I start type in first character then Password changes to Manage. I have to enter password first and then user ID. That’s amateurish!

280. Kamloops from 10,000’ above Airport, Apr 9, 2020

Due to Covid-19 pandemic, I decided to fly just around the airport without my usual exploration flights. I could return safely back to airport without the engine power. To make it more interesting I set a goal to go up to 10,000’ (3 048m) above airport. I made it to 11,600’ (3 536m) above sea level. Obviously, higher up above ground the perception of speed disappears. You feel like suspended motionless in the air with spectacular 360 deg view. It was very pleasant feeling. My views are especially special, because I am not looking through glass or through small windows. There is nothing between me and the environment. The ground temperature was 12C (54 F) and 3C (37 F) on the top, which is very good. No more frozen fingers.

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279. Short Flight with Fuel Problem, Apr 6, 2020

I originally promised that I will not fly during the Covid-19 pandemic. I did not want to push my luck. I knew that there would be very limited medical help just in case I would need it, plus very high potential to get infected by that virus. It would be certainly fatal in my age.

Lately, we finally have very beautiful days, ideal for flying. I could not take it anymore. I decided to fly only at gliding distance from the airport to mitigate any dangers. I could make it back safely with dead engine. My goal today was to show how this areal looks from 10,000’ above ground. I wanted to spiral in very wide oval into 12,000’ and then idle down back to airport. It was very ironic, because just half way up, at 5,700’ I noticed low fuel pressure. I was not very trilled about it. I looked that my flying will be over, plus the find what the problem is. I turn on an auxiliary fuel pump which increased the fuel pressure, but it was still not normal. Lowered RPM, pump on/off, RPM up… nothing worked, while trike engine did not complain a bit. I called tower with my changed plan due to low fuel pressure. I was asked if I need emergency stand-by, like fire truck and ambulance. I was fine with just bid inconvenience. Eventually I found that it was fuel filter. I never ever had any fuel pressure gauge in my previous trikes and ultralight and I never had any fuel problem. It is a bid disappointing with this trike, because it has only 80 hours total. I think I would be really stressed to be far away from the airport.

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278. Unnoticed Flock of Geese in my Landing Area, March 20, 2020

I noticed a shadow from a bird flying overhead just before a touch down. I never notice any birds (usually geese), so that shadow surprised me. After reviewing the videos from the on board cameras, I saw around 50 Canadian Geese in area where I was touching down. Any collision with those big birds could potentially create serious damage to any aircraft.

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277. Kamloops to Cache Creek Area, March 20, 2020

Really spring weather with 6 to 8C, but of course, that take off and landing turbulence again on sun heated concrete runway. The turbulence was discouraging, but eventually it was very nice flight. It was also first flight after many months without frozen fingers. This area west of the Kamloops is again very beautiful and unique in its character. Thompson Rive did very good job forming that interesting landscape. During the flight I noticed that my front camera was about 5 deg of horizon. This was disappointing, but I could do nothing about it. I will do this valley again in the late Spring and make unedited video to show it how it is.