UPDATE July 2021 - The lookout is sometimes staffed by a person (at that lookout for 42 years) that incorrectly believes that ham radio requires a Special Use Permit at this location. It is recommended to not activate at the summit or discuss radio with this person, but activate out of sight of the lookout tower off the road.
On July 27, 2013, my wife, Christina, and I activated Castle Rock (W7O/CM-116) near Cougar Reservoir in the middle Cascades. This 3808’ summit is easily reached by roads and a moderate hike.
First Activation of Norse Peak, Pierce / King County Line, Washington.
I attempted to activate Horsepasture Mountain in the middle Cascades on 27/7/13. At the base of Road 1993 that leads up the mountain, I encountered a sign saying that the road was closed at 3.0 miles. Curiously, I drove up to have a look. At a little over 3 miles up the road there is a large landside with dirt, rocks, boulders and large trees across the road. I may take awhile for that to be cleared. If you are thinking about activating the summit, check with the Forest Service.
Completed my second SOTA activation on Black Crater on July 23, 2013. Black Creater trailhead is located just east of McKenzie Pass on OR 242. The trailhead is well marked. Parking and the trail are both very good. Trail to the top is about four miles with about 3000ft elevation gain. Trail starts in dense forest and the forrest thins out as you go higher. There were lots of bugs at the parking lot but once on the trail, they were not a problem.
First Activation of Crossman Peak, Mohave County, Arizona.
First SOTA Activation of Tamarack Peak, Washoe County, Nevada - Ace Number 3.
First SOTA Activation of Mount Houghton, Washoe County, Nevada - Ace Number 2.
Great outing on sunny and warm day (80F at 2:00 PM). With Loren Chotzen, Dexter the Labrador and Max the Husky.
This was a fun activation of Mt. Hood. I decided to splurge on weight and bring the FT-817 and Buddipole (no coils) for 6m and 2m SSB. Once I got the antenna up, I found a number of chasers waiting on 50.125, so I'm glad I brought equipment for 6m. The mast was supported by shoving it into the hard snow on the summit.