%Mac:
I wast just trying to caution about the dangers of Density Altitude in a Warrior. I grew up flying in California and have been a member of the Civil Air Patrol for twenty years. As a Search and Rescue pilot I have seen first hand the many crashes that occur in the mountain passes and high desert of California. Further I rebuilt the engine of a Beech Sport that crashed on takeoff from Lake Tahoe airport while in college. That was a classic Density Altitude accident.
You are absolutely correct in that the flying here in California will be unlike a lot of Europe but caution is necessary to avoid any unpleasent experiences. I've experienced downdrafts near the mountains along the Colorado river that exceeded the climb capability of the aircraft. Fortunatly I was expecting it and had planned my flight path to escape if necessary. A trip out to Lake Havasu is certainly feasible and would be an enjoyable part of a flying adventure in California. While out that way pop into Bullhead City if you want to try a little Nevada style gambling and enjoy a cheap casino buffet.
Sincerely,
typhoonpilot