Hike Up and Help Out!

The Road Show Amateur Radio Club is proud to support the Make-A-Wish Trailblaze Challenge, providing essential safety communications for this important event. They need your help to make it happen!

Event Overview

Event Date: Saturday, Oct 11, 2025

Location: Foothills Trail – starting near Whitewater Falls (Cashiers, NC) and ending at Oconee State Park (SC)

The Trailblaze Challenge is a 28.3-mile hike along the scenic yet rugged Foothills Trail, starting near Whitewater Falls in Cashiers, NC at around 4:00 a.m. and ending at Oconee State Park, SC. This event raises funds and awareness for Make-A-Wish, and the role of amateur radio operators is to ensure the safety of participants throughout the day.

Volunteers Needed

Hiker Hams – 4 operators needed

• Must be able to hike portions of the Foothills Trail with the event sweeps.
• Longest segment: a little over 12 miles.
• Required gear: Handheld 440 MHz radio with spare batteries (backup power is essential).
• Primary role: shadow the sweep team for emergency communication purposes.

Non-Hiking Hams – 3 operators needed

• Stationed at aid stations along the route.
• Preferred gear: Mobile radio for stronger, more reliable communications.
• Support role: relay messages and assist with coordination.

Additional Details

• Terrain: The Foothills Trail is rugged and challenging; be prepared for variable weather and trail conditions.
• Net Control: KE4VXC (Chet) will serve as Net Control for the duration of the event.
• Safety First: Our communications team is there to keep participants and volunteers safe, ensuring swift response in case of an emergency.

If you’re ready to lend your skills and help Make-A-Wish create life-changing experiences for children in our community, please contact KE4VXC (Chet) for more details or to sign up. (QRZ)

Your participation will make a difference—both for the safety of the event and for the kids Make-A-Wish serves.