When planning a trip to see family in Idaho, I was looking for summits around Spokane that could be "quick side-trips". Mount Spokane W7W/WE-006 was my first choice, and the summit that I activated on the way there. Steptoe Butte was chosen for the drive back home. Both have been activated multiple times, are easily accessible (drive-up or near drive-up), and have great views.
Directions to Steptoe Butte were straightforward using Google Maps for either "Steptoe Butte" or "Steptoe Butte State Park", and it was located approximately 1 hour drive south of Spokane, WA (and north of Pullman, WA). A paved road takes you to an upper parking area, and there is another lower parking area. From looking at caltopo maps, the lower parking area also appears to be in the activation area. If the upper parking area is busy, it might make sense to activate HF from the lower parking area.
A Washington Discover Pass is required, since Steptoe Butte is located within Steptoe Butte State Park. Please check the state park website if you are attempting activation in approx. Spring 2022. As of July 2021, the website states major road and parking repairs will shut down the park for 12-16 weeks in Spring 2022.
https://parks.state.wa.us/592/Steptoe-Butte
I arrived at 9am on Monday July 5th, and there were 2 other cars on summit. The few people there mid-morning were walking around taking pictures of all the views. I chose to setup my HF antenna at the upper parking area, and strapped the extension mast to a post. I used the PackTenna end-fed since it was smaller with more discrete wire. During the summer, it can get hot and I was glad to be there earlier in the day. I was able to make 18 20m contacts and 1 40m. No success on VHF, but I didn't try too hard and seemed to experience some interference on 146.52 (146.56 and 146.58 seemed ok).
While this trip was a total 3-4 hour "side-trip" on the way home from seeing family, it was fun to experience a new unique summit for the first time. Recognizing the summit is a tourist destination, it is recommended if you are in the area.
