W7I/SC-132 Don Benchmark

 I had some free time from work, so naturally I decided to go get a SOTA peak. The peaks above Boise looked like they were still snow covered, so I headed east a bit to some lower hills. I was not prepared for snow. I parked at an unmarked dirt road at the base of the peak. 

Dirt road near the start.

The road looked pretty rough, so I didn't try driving it in the sedan I had. Just up the hill is an unlocked gate. After going through I followed the road for a short distance. After about a half mile I saw a line up the hill that looked good, so I stepped off. My route to the top was more or less west from the road.

Excellent views from the climb up.

I found some places that didn't have a lot of brush. This was nice since I was wearing shorts and my legs were getting a bit cut up. I definitely took a steeper route to the summit, but it wasn't so bad going up.  

Summit cross.

At the summit is a wooden cross. I found the benchmark near the cross. It was pretty windy on top, but I didn't mind since it was such a warm day. I set up my antenna, using the cross as a support. There was good cell service on top. I didn't make a lot of contacts, but I made some on each band. After I had worked everyone, I packed up and headed down.

Peak from the dirt road.

I took a more circuitous route down to get a extra mile or two in before heading back to the car. It was very warm in the valley without the breeze. 

Trailhead: US 20, dirt road south-east of the peak
Website: SOTA Site.
Maps: AA6XA SOTA Hikes map.
Route: Follow the road up the hill. When you see a good spot, head up the hill to the summit.
Red Tape: None. Peak appears to be on BLM land.