Winter Hiking and Ham Radio Adventures: Summiting PAC Monadnock

There’s something magical about winter hikes—the crisp air, the serene landscapes blanketed in snow, and the camaraderie of good friends. Recently, I had the pleasure of embarking on a winter adventure up Mount Monadnock at Miller State Park with my buddies Keith (KC1OZK) and Paul (N1OG) with his Dog Watson. Our goal? Enjoy the great outdoors and activate the SOTA (Summits on the Air) and POTA (Parks on the Air) programs while connecting with fellow ham radio enthusiasts.

There’s something magical about winter hikes—the crisp air, the serene landscapes blanketed in snow, and the camaraderie of good friends. Recently, I had the pleasure of embarking on a winter adventure up Mount Monadnock at Miller State Park with my buddies Keith (KC1OZK) and Paul (N1OG) with his Dog Watson. Our goal? Enjoy the great outdoors and activate the SOTA (Summits on the Air) and POTA (Parks on the Air) programs while connecting with fellow ham radio enthusiasts.

A Perfect Winter Day

As we set out early in the morning, we were greeted by stunning weather conditions—clear blue skies, bright sunshine, and a refreshing chill in the air. The trail was covered in a layer of snow, creating a picturesque winter wonderland. We bundled up in our warmest gear and hit the trail, excitement palpable among the three of us.

Make it stand out

The hike itself was invigorating. The beauty of the landscape around us was breathtaking, with snow-laden trees and sweeping views of the surrounding mountains. We took our time, enjoying the journey as much as the destination. The laughter, shared stories, and occasional friendly banter made the trek even more enjoyable.

Activating SOTA and POTA

Reaching the summit of Mount Monadnock was a moment of triumph. The views from the top were absolutely stunning, and we quickly set up our ham radio equipment to activate SOTA and POTA. The airwaves were alive with activity, buzzing with other hams, Keith (AC1RH) and John (KB1ICL) activating POTA parks in the local area. It was thrilling to know that while we were conquering the summit, others were also on the air, making their own connections.

Getting Ready to Activate

Keith (KC1OZK), Paul (N1OG) (Not pictured) and Eric (N1JUR) are setting up for an activation of Us 2662 Miller State Park.

With our equipment ready, we started making contacts. Each of us took turns operating the radio, and before we knew it, we had made **22 contacts!** The thrill of reaching out to fellow operators across the country was exhilarating. The energy in the air was infectious, and we felt the camaraderie of the ham radio community, even from a distance.

A Thriving Community

What made the experience even more special were the several other hams who were activating POTA parks nearby despite not hiking with us. The airwaves were filled with signals and voices, creating a vibrant atmosphere that showcased the spirit of amateur radio. It was a reminder of how connected we all are, regardless of our physical locations.

As we wrapped up our radio session, we took a moment to soak in the stunning vistas and the accomplishment of our day. The combination of great weather, successful activations, and the joy of connecting with others made for an unforgettable experience.

A Memorable Adventure

The descent from the summit was filled with smiles and stories about our favorite contacts and the beautiful moments of the day. As we made our way back down, we reflected on the incredible adventure we had shared. Winter hiking at PAC Monadnock is not just about reaching the top; it’s about the journey, the connections we make, and the friendships we strengthen along the way.

I highly recommend PAC Monadnock at Miller State Park for anyone considering a winter hike. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker, a ham radio operator, or simply looking for a beautiful escape into nature, this adventure offers something for everyone.

As we look forward to our next outing, we know that the mountains will always be calling, and the airwaves will always be buzzing with activity. Until next time, happy hiking and 73!