Overview:
On a clear, calm day with smoke creeping in from eastern fires, I set out to activate Winchester Mountain (W7W/WH-122) and 30.06 Peak, also known as Bear Mountain (W7W/WH-123). This report details the equipment used, trail conditions, band conditions, and memorable moments from both activations.
Weather and Views:
The weather was cool and clear, providing remarkable views despite the encroaching smoke from fires in the east. From both summits, I enjoyed stunning overlooks of Twin Lakes below, framed by the majestic North Cascades.
Trailhead and Access:
The trailhead for both Winchester Mountain and Bear Mountain begins at the Twin Lakes parking lot. This convenient starting point provided access to the short, steep trails leading to each summit.
Winchester Mountain Activation:
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Trail Description: The hike to Winchester Mountain is a short, steep trail of about 1.5 miles to the summit. The summit block is large and features a lookout structure.
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Summit Conditions: Upon arrival, I found several campers around the summit block, some in tents and a couple inside the lookout structure. Since I began my hike early, I reached the summit before the campers were awake. I activated just below the summit out of earshot to avoid disturbing them.
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Equipment Used: I used my handheld transceiver (HT) on FM with a portable Arrow Yagi antenna for this activation.
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Activation Details: To avoid triggering the spot for Bear Mountain, I refrained from operating in CW mode and focused on FM contacts. The activation was smooth, with several successful contacts using the Arrow Yagi.
Bear Mountain Activation:
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Trail Description: The hike to 30.06 Peak (Bear Mountain) is a steep, off-trail alpine scramble just over a mile from the Twin Lakes parking area, gaining over 1500 feet of elevation. The final ascent includes an easy class 2 scramble to the summit.
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Summit Conditions: The summit offers a 360º view of the North Cascades, including East and West Goat and the prominent peaks of Shuksan and Baker.
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Equipment Used: For this activation, I used my Elecraft KH1 combined with a newly built End-Fed Half Wave (EFHW) antenna designed by K6ARK.
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Antenna Details: I was eager to test my ultra-portable EFHW antenna, designed with two segments: one tuned for the CW portion of 17m and an additional section making the antenna resonant on 20m. A quick press of the ATU also provided excellent SWR on 15m.
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Activation Details: Band conditions were excellent, allowing me to make CW contacts as far away as Pennsylvania (KC3RT) and Japan (JG0AWE). Operating with just 5 watts from the KH1 combined with the newly built K6ARK EFHW kits performed exceptionally well.
Conclusion:
The SOTA activations of Winchester Mountain and Bear Mountain were both challenging and rewarding. From the early morning solitude on Winchester to the exhilarating scramble and expansive views from Bear Mountain, each activation offered unique experiences and opportunities for amateur radio operation.
The favorable band conditions and the successful performance of my equipment, especially the new EFHW antenna, made these activations particularly satisfying. As I reflect on these adventures, I am reminded of the joy and fulfillment that come from combining outdoor exploration with the art of amateur radio. I eagerly anticipate future activations and the continued pursuit of new summits and connections.
