I was driving on an FSR the other week and for the first time had a loaded logging truck coming down - it was easy to see+pull off to the side, but I realize that isn't always the case.

What are my options for the most basic setup so I can hear the logging trucks? I've heard of the Baofung UV-5r?

I don't really want an "installed system" given the INfrequency that I go on those roads, and don't otherwise do offroading/overlanding.

With something like the Baofung would I be able to hear the trucks coming down given the twists+turns around the mountain landscape, the trees surrounding the road, etc.? Something else I should be considering?

The Baofeng UV-5r is a Ham Radio, do you have a Ham license? If so and assuming the loggers are on a Ham radio it would work depending on the distance and obstructions. Although the BaoFeng BF-F8HP is a more powerful alternative for not much more.

How To Program Your Radio for BC’s Backroads | West Coast Placer


Maybe helpful.

I never would have guessed you need a license to use a ham radio. the more you know I guess.

Technically, you can listen without a license. You need the license to transmit. In the scenario OP mentioned, listening might be enough.

Ability to transmit is priceless in many situations. Get licensed and not worry.

Logging trucks probably aren't on amateur (ham) frequencies, which by their nature, are non-commercial. It's possible they could be bootlegging amateur frequencies, but more likely they are on commercial frequencies or CB radio (or both).

The Baofeng can be programmed to receive commercial frequencies in the VHF and UHF bands, but NOT CB which is AM and in the 27 MHz band.

Another alternative for receive only is a scanner. They can be programmed to receive pretty much any frequency, including commercial, ham and CB.

You might take a look at Radio Reference (RadioReference.com - Scanner Frequencies and Radio Frequency Reference) and ask you question there. RR is radio and scanner oriented and you have a good chance of getting more specialized advice, including which specific frequencies you will need to monitor.

This and a $30 Baofeng UV5R would allow you to monitor the freq's used once programmed into the radio.

If the provided stubby antenna does not provide acceptable reception you could also add a $20 NAGOYA NA771 antenna or for max reception a $35 NAGOYA UT-72 rooftop magnetic mount antenna.

If you wish to transmit on said freq you may be required to have a license as I am not sure on the Canadian freq usage.

Dollar amounts are in USA funds not sure about Canadian pricing.

Get yourself a Tech license, it's not that hard. But as an aside, I'm assuming that the logging trucks aren't using amateur radio frequencies, or at least shouldn't be. In the U.S. I don't think they can be used legally for any commercial purposes.

I'm hoping that if/when I get a 4Runner to put a mobile 2 meter radio and antenna in it.

If you already had your tech license you would already know the answer to the use of Ham Band for commercial purposes as it is on the test.

The OP was asking about the logging trucks in British Columbia when driving on FSR roads they use a specific set of freq's regulated by the BC government, These freq and there use is covered in the above link provided by BackOff