Wind, Wire, and QRP — A CW POTA Activation at Montezuma’s Pass

Описание: POTA @ AZ Scenic Trail System (US-4557) — Montezuma’s Pass, SE AZ 🌬️📡

Chapters:
00:00 - Intro
04:01 - Setup
07:08 - Setting up the IC-705's WiFi
17:13 - Activation
01:08:00 - QRT

This video documents a Parks on the Air activation on the Arizona Scenic Trail System (US-4557) from Montezuma’s Pass in southeastern Arizona — a location that delivers both incredible views and very real operating challenges.

About a week before this activation, I made a scouting trip and filmed the ascent to the pass. I returned the following weekend specifically to get on the air and complete the activation — and was met with relentless wind that forced some on-the-fly improvisation and operating from the back of my truck.

For this activation, I ran my usual portable loadout:
• 📻 Radio: Icom IC-705
• 🎛️ Tuner: MAT-705+
• 📡 Antenna: Chameleon 17' vertical whip
• 🔋 Power: 10W QRP

The wind at Montezuma’s Pass was strong enough that a normal free-standing vertical wasn’t an option. To keep the antenna upright and operational, I ended up lashing the vertical to the side of my truck bed — a practical reminder that field activations don’t always go according to plan.

This activation is a good example of adapting to the environment, keeping things simple, and getting the job done even when conditions aren’t cooperative.

If you enjoy real-world POTA activations, practical portable setups, and honest field experiences, consider subscribing. More activations coming.

📞 Callsign: KM7CBE
🏞️ Park: AZ Scenic Trail System — US-4557
📍 Location: Montezuma’s Pass, SE Arizona