Just wanted to share a little Activation Report from my adventures this past weekend in my beloved Catskill Mountains.
This weekend’s activations were particularly exciting for me, as it was the maiden voyage for my brand new Elecraft KX2 radio.
Friday 10/10 - Halcott Mountain
Halcott pronounced “Hawk-it” has no official trail, just a herd path up the mountain. But a fresh layer of autumn leaves erased the path, instantly turning the hike into a proper bushwhack.
Not a difficult hike overall, but a much slower pace than normal. Some very steep loamy sections and lots of quick pauses to check the maps to make sure we stayed on course.
4.5 miles with 1800ft of elevation gain.
Despite the slow pace, we had beautiful autumn weather with blue bird skies.
Eventually we found the “can” on the summit and signed our names.
Then it was time to get on the air!
Using the KX2 for the first time in the field was a treat. This is a beast of a radio and Im still getting use to it. But after a few more activations I know it will feel like second nature and I’ll be using the radio to its full potential.
This was my first time using a random wire antenna, and I have to say I’m quite smitten with it. The easy set up and compact nature makes this an ideal piece of kit for me. Especially on some of the more densely treed summits in the Catskills.
As always my faithful trail dog Crimson, keeps watch during the activation.
Saturday 10/11 - Slide Mountain
Saturday was another wonderful autumn day with cool crisp air and beautiful soft light. A perfect day for hiking and playing radio.
This is was not my first time hiking Slide, but this was my first time activating this summit.
5.53 miles with 1800ft of elevation gain.
With a proper trail, we were able to fly up the mountain. Crushing the pace from the previous day.
Once again, The KX2 was outstanding.
I was able to make two S2S contacts, one on 20m and another on 40m.
After wrapping up my CW activations, I put my roll up j pole antenna onto my POTA explorer mast and made a few 2m contacts with the Yaseu FT-60. CW is my bread and butter, but there is something just so fun about making SOTA contacts with the HT.
And finally a couple crispy beverages as a reward after a long hike.
