Backpacking into North Cascades National Park (US-0055)
Date: September 6-8, 2024
Overview:
Access via the Hannegan Trailhead: On a recent backpacking trip deep into North Cascades National Park, I had the opportunity to activate two summits for Summits on the Air (SOTA) and the North Cascades National Park (POTA US-0055). This journey marked the first Silesia Ridge (W7W/WH-063) and Copper Mountain (W7W/WH-071) activations. With incredible alpine scenery, challenging ridgelines, and exposed summits, this trip was a technical and adventurous achievement.
Trailhead and Approach:
The trip began with a hike deep into North Cascades National Park. Carrying all my gear for a multi-day trek, I set out from the trailhead toward the remote and rugged terrain surrounding Silesia Ridge and Copper Mountain. Both summits offered stunning views and distinct challenges, with the ridge walks offering different experiences. Permits can be tough to come by, and this year was no exception. Since the park service reserves a small percentage of the permits for walk-ups, we secured the permit two days prior at the Ranger Station just outside of Glacier, WA.
Weather and Views:
The weather during the activation was hazy and hot, which was not ideal for long-distance hiking and SOTA operations. The Easy Ridge fire was still burning, and the off-shore winds increased the presence of smoke along the trail. As one can imagine, the lack of tree coverage on both summits provided unobstructed panoramic views of the surrounding North Cascades. But there are few places to throw a line and hoist an antenna. Knowing this in advance, I brought my trusty SOTABeams mast. Despite the lingering smoke, the granitic rock formations, and the wide-open alpine terrain, the landscapes were awe-inspiring, making the long journey worthwhile.
Silesia Ridge Activation:
- Ridge Walk: The walk along Silesia Ridge was relatively tame, allowing for steady progress and fewer technical obstacles. There was a fair amount of side-hilling and a mild class three scramble near the top. The well-defined ridge provided stunning views with a challenging, steep approach.
- Summit Conditions: The summit of Silesia Ridge was composed of exposed granitic rock, with no tree cover to interfere with radio operation. This made for an ideal spot to set up the antenna and enjoy the activation, albeit hot. The summit’s open exposure allowed for smooth operation and a memorable first-time activation of this peak. But plan on using a mast or tripod-mounted vertical.
- Activation Details: I used all five watts from my Elecraft KH1 combined with the K6ARK EFHW antenna. Friday’s activation of Silesia Ridge was excellent. Within just 20 min or so, I had six contacts, one memorable contact, F4WBN (my first DX SOTA QSO) as far away as France. The band conditions were favorable, allowing me to make successful contacts with several stations across the Pacific Northwest and well beyond.
Copper Mountain Activation:
- Ridge Walk: Our first night led down Silesia Ridge eventually setting camp at Egg Lake. The following morning, we set out for Copper Mountain, a more strenuous and technically demanding ridgeline. The route included a mild class III exposed section that required careful navigation. For those uncomfortable with the exposure, an alternative bushwhack route was available through a partially forested area, though it added scrapes and complexity.
- Summit Conditions: Copper Mountain’s summit was similarly granitic and fully exposed, offering 360º views of the surrounding alpine wilderness. Shimmering peaks in the distance, including the jagged spires of the North Cascades, created an epic backdrop.
- Technical Activation: For this summit, I used my Elecraft KH1 along with my newly built K6ARK End-Fed Half Wave antenna. Despite the satisfaction of the rugged approach, this activation was more challenging. After about 60 minutes of calling CQ on 20, 17, and 40 meters with only a single contact with NR1D in Connecticut, I switched to my HT paired with the RH 770 and managed three FM contacts, including one S2S.
Parks on the Air (POTA) Activation:
As both summits are located within North Cascades National Park, this trip allowed me to attempt to activate POTA entity US-0055. The combination of high-elevation activations and the designation of the national park made this an especially rewarding and unique experience.
Conclusion:
The first-time activations of Silesia Ridge and Copper Mountain were both challenging and immensely rewarding. From the steep ridge walk along Silesia to the exposed class III scramble up Copper Mountain, each summit offered its own set of obstacles and stunning alpine beauty. The exposed, rocky summits provided an excellent environment for SOTA and POTA operations, with my portable setups performing admirably.
This journey into the heart of North Cascades National Park, combined with the adventure of activating new summits, was an unforgettable experience. The rugged terrain, wide-open views, and clear radio conditions reminded me of why I cherish these remote activations. I look forward to future expeditions, always seeking out new summits and opportunities to explore the synergy between amateur radio and the great outdoors.