Rob Bedichek's PCT Through Hike -- Ham Radio

There are practical uses for being able to communicate with Annie and with others while I am on the trail. I have reluctantly decided to take a small (85 gram) VHF/UHF transceiver (see my equipment page for more information on the radio itself). Here are my reasons for taking this radio (in contrast to not takeing a cellular phone):

  • It weighs less than my cellular phone, just 85 grams.
  • It is likely to be more effective in the mountains than a cell phone.
  • It is not part of the fast-paced mainstream life that I am seeking a break from.
  • It picks up weather broadcasts, unlike a cellular phone.
  • It is less likely to offend other hikers as inappropriate for the wilderness. However, I don't plan to (1) use it much, or (2) use it within ear shot of other hikers without their permission.

    Here is E-mail with practical advice on using ham radio on the PCT.

    Here is the Wilderness Protocol, which I plan to follow. However, I do not plan to monitor every three hours every day. More likely, I will monitor once a day at 7PM, and only on some days.

    I hope to use my radio to get messages to Annie, to give her updates on my progress and to let her know that I am fine. Also, I may ask her to send me certain things in my next resupply parcel. Using the radio, I'll be able to ask for things sooner and thus get them sooner.

    I have not figured out how to keep my radio charged. It has a nice 600 mAh, 3.8 Vold, Lithium-ion battery. However, it is not easily replaced in the field and is expensive. I built a small solar array (24 grams), but it doesn't produce enough power to be worthwhile. My current plan is to recharge the internal battery using an exteral battery pack with two or three non rechargeable lithion batteries.

    I am taking pages from The Repeater Mapbook and have looked through the The ARRL Repeater Guide.

    My callsign is KE7EF.

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    Last updated April 5, 1999