Hiking Adventure at Grand Ballon

SOTA Adventure at Le Grand Ballon, FL/VO-001

Embarking on another thrilling SOTA (Summits on the Air) adventure, I set my sights on the magnificent Le Grand Ballon, FL/VO-001 in France. This journey turned out to be more than just a conquest of the peak; it became a memorable experience marked by my first summit-to-summit contact at 144MHz in FM. Amidst the spectacular weather, I decided to extend the adventure into a serene overnight stay, sharing the summit with fellow camper van enthusiasts.

The Ascent to Le Grand Ballon

Navigating the challenging yet exhilarating trail to Le Grand Ballon, the highest point in the Vosges mountain range, I reveled in the breathtaking views that unfolded with every step. The clear skies and perfect weather heightened the joy of the ascent, creating a picture-perfect backdrop for my SOTA expedition.

First Summit-to-Summit Contact

Upon reaching the summit, I quickly set up my radio equipment and experienced a defining moment in my ham radio journey. My first summit-to-summit contact at 144MHz in FM was with HB9CRY/p, who was situated atop the Nüenchamm (Reference HB/GL-045) in Switzerland. Connecting with a fellow enthusiast on a different summit added an extra layer of excitement, uniting us in the shared joy of conquering peaks.

Overnight Stay Amidst Camper Vans

With the day offering impeccable weather conditions, the decision to stay overnight was an easy one. Joining a group of approximately 6 other camper vans, we transformed the summit into a tranquil, communal space for a quiet night under the stars. The camaraderie among like-minded individuals, all sharing a love for adventure and exploration, turned the overnight stay into a cherished part of the overall experience.

SOTA Activator Stats

Activating Le Grand Ballon not only added another significant summit to my list but also marked a milestone with my first summit-to-summit contact at 144MHz in FM. The 10 points earned from this activation, coupled with the unique summit-to-summit achievement, contributed to my growing SOTA activator stats, reflecting the joy and accomplishment derived from this extraordinary journey.

Conclusion

Le Grand Ballon, with its sweeping vistas and perfect weather, provided an ideal backdrop for a SOTA adventure that exceeded expectations. The summit-to-summit contact with HB9CRY/p atop the Nüenchamm, coupled with the decision to extend the journey into a tranquil overnight stay, made this expedition truly unforgettable. For SOTA enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, Le Grand Ballon stands as an iconic destination, inviting explorers to revel in the beauty of the Vosges mountain range while creating lasting memories with each summit conquered.