Hiking

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.

Hiking and Activating Le Donon with FT8

Nestled in the stunning landscapes of France, Le Donon stands tall as a haven for hiking enthusiasts seeking both a physical challenge and breathtaking views. On my recent expedition to this remarkable summit, not only did I conquer the trail, but I also activated the summit for the Summits on the Air (SOTA) program using the FT8 mode on my ham radio equipment. The journey was a test of endurance, especially under the scorching sun, but the rewards at the top, both in terms of stunning scenery and radio contacts, were well worth the effort.

Are you an outdoor enthusiast who loves hiking, running, and biking? Do you also have a passion for ham radio? If so, have you ever considered combining these two interests by participating in Summits on the Air (SOTA)

SOTA is an amateur radio program that encourages radio operators to hike to the summit of a mountain or hill, set up a portable station, and make contacts with other SOTA participants. It’s a great way to combine your love of the outdoors with your passion for ham radio, and it offers a unique challenge and sense of accomplishment.