Pick a radio
Any FRS radio works with the program. We recommend one that monitors two channels, so you hear your group channel and the community channel at the same time.
| Model | Rocky Talkie Mountain Radio | Rocky Talkie Expedition Radio | BCA BC Link Mini | BCA BC Link 2.0 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Two channels | Scan only | Dual channel watch | Dual channel scanning | Dual channel scanning |
| Band | FRS, no license | GMRS, license required | FRS | FRS |
| Power | 2 W | 5 W | 2 W | 2 W |
| Weight | 6.1 oz | 9.1 oz | 6 oz | 11 oz |
| Hand mic | Optional | Optional | None | Included, clips to pack strap |
| Price | $120 | $195 | $119.95 | $205.95 |
From each maker's product page, checked September 30, 2026. Mountain · Expedition · BC Link Mini · BC Link 2.0
Dual-channel monitoring. Set the community channel and your group channel. The radio listens to both, so a hazard call still comes through while you talk to your party.
Single-channel radio. Stay on the community channel and set your group channel only when you need it. Say so on the community channel when you switch away.
GMRS radios such as the Expedition Radio work on the community channels, but GMRS needs an FCC license. Neither FRS nor GMRS reaches emergency services.
Set it up once. Program channels 16, 18, 20 and 22 with privacy code 30, and channel 5 for outside the zones. Then switch channels at the trailhead.
Set it up at the trailhead
Pick the community channel on the trailhead sign, then set privacy code 30 on that channel. Most radios call the code a "privacy code" or "sub-channel" in their menus.
Cody Townsend on radios
A short Instagram video on why he tours with one.