Today JD (K7JDF) and I headed out for an easy 1-point summit: Wildcat Mountain. This summit is on the eastern edge of the Tillamook State Forest and is very accessible from the Portland metro area and provides an excellent operating position at the top as well as a fantastic view. After turning left on Hayward Rd from US26, we went a few miles and parked at the gate blocking Wildcat Mountain Rd. We followed this about 0.7 miles to the point at which the instructions describe making an easy bushwhack across to the next logging road. From there, we followed the road to the top, for a total of about 1.7 miles of easy hiking. The top has an excellent spot for operating -- a wide flat clearing with rocks and logs for anchoring guys. Bordered on one side by forest and on the other side by a small berm, the spot provides a little protection from any wind and plenty of space to set up. To the north and east, clear views of Mt. Hood, Mt. Adams, Mt. St. Helens, and even Mt. Rainier are available. Today, we set up first on 17 meters and JD worked a bunch of contacts, including DX to Wales! We moved up to 15 meters and I made a bunch of US contacts, followed by a quick trip down to 20 meters to pick up a few more. Finally, I set up my Arrow 2 meter beam and called (for what seemed like hours) into the noise. I did make two contacts with folks from the valley, but was hoping for something a little more interesting. It was a great day, with great weather, and a easy (but not trivial) hike. With a GPS, this one would be a great first activation or be perfect for someone looking for a lower-level summit to do for a quick afternoon trip.
