W7I/SI-190 Camelback Mountain

 At first glance, there is no way to get to this peak without trespassing. However, intrepid hiker, this is a public way. A corner of BLM land crosses West Buckskin Road at approximately 42°52'11.0"N 112°21'32.0"W. This is where you should park.

Heading up the hill.

Since it is only a narrow bit of public land at the road, you have to go straight up a rather steep hill. I lucked out and went after a few warm days had melted all the snow from this south facing slope, but it would be treacherous with snow or ice. After climbing a couple hundred feet in way too short a distance, you reach the top of the first hill. The summit is visible, as is the sub-peak you have to go over. Fun. 

At least there are nice views on the way up. 

There are no trails here, but the brush is easy to go through or around. The climb up the sub-peak is steep, maybe a little less than the first climb. On the top you have to drop again before the final climb. Its a real roller coaster of a hike. The final push isn't as bad as the first two. 

Looking south, I think.

The summit is long and narrow. It was pretty windy when I was up there, but the lee side of the hill was also the snowy side, so I decided it would be warmer to sit in the sun and wind. As I was putting up my wire, it broke at the feed point. I didn't want to take off my gloves, so I put it away and did an activation with only the whip. 20m was wide open, and I got a decent pileup. A few people got some extra QSB as the wind blew the whip over and I had to put it back to vertical.

I was able to fix it once I got off the mountain.

To get back, just retrace your steps. The downs seem even steeper than when you went up. Crazy how that is. Back at the road, with tired knees, I got back in the car and drove back into town. It was a fun hike. Maybe someday a spot with better access will open, but until then I'm glad there's a place it can be done from.

Trailhead: (42.86945, -112.35832). There is a pullout here with space for about two cars.

Website: SOTA Site.

Maps: AA6XA SOTA Hikes map.

Route: Head straight up the hill, staying on BLM land. Head over to the sub-peak, then up to the main summit.

Red Tape: I didn't see any signs by the road, but try to stay on public land.

Video: Coming soon!