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Hut Ridge Trail End (McMurdo, Antarctica) Traditional Geocache

Hidden : 10/28/2012
Difficulty:
2.5 out of 5
Terrain:
4 out of 5

Size: Size:   small (small)

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Geocache Description:

ROSS ISLAND TRAIL SYSTEM ANTARCTICA




CACHE AT THE TRAIL END


The Hut Point Ridge Trail is one of the newest additions to hiking opportunities in the Ross Island area. Dedicated in December of 2004, it gives hikers new terrain to explore, and provides a different perspective of McMurdo and expansive views to the west and north.
The Hut Point Ridge Trail passes between two science experiments; one managed by the US Antarctic Program (USAP) and one a joint effort between the USAP and Antarctica New Zealand. Please refrain from disturbing these experiments.

 PLEASE RESPECT THE AREA AND DON"T LEAVE THE RAIL.


Current Hazards
This cache is part of a series along the Ross Island Trail System and is known to those in charge of the Trail System

NOTES FROM THE McMurdo eFoot PLAN
The Hut Point Ridge is composed of varied terrain, which includes steep slopes, exposed ridgelines, snow cornices and loose rock. Use caution and turn around when route conditions exceed your abilities. Gusty winds can be very strong along the ridgeline; therefore, remain well clear of the edge. Bunny boots are not recommended for this route, use sturdy hiking boots instead.
Arrival Heights is designated as an Antarctic Specially Protected Area ASPA to provide a quiet, undisturbed area for sensitive science experiments. Commotion from vehicles, radio traffic, electronics, and even walking through the area can cause interference. You must stay on the marked trail and refrain from entering the ASPA.
The trail also passes closely to two other restricted areas: the Explosive Storage area and the sea-ice and ice pier in the Hut Point vicinity. Please remain clear of all of these areas.
Proper Gear
While ECW clothing is not required for the Hut Point Ridge trail, it is recommended that you bring layers of warm clothing. During periods of cold and windy weather, ECW clothing (excluding bunny boots) is highly recommended.

The cache is a metal box. At the start, the cache contained
green log book
Pencil
sharpener
ear plug
key tag
2 pathtags

DON'T FORGET GLOVES

Additional Hints (Decrypt)

Boivbhf ynory; ba gur yrsg fvqr bs gur znexre

Decryption Key

A|B|C|D|E|F|G|H|I|J|K|L|M
-------------------------
N|O|P|Q|R|S|T|U|V|W|X|Y|Z

(letter above equals below, and vice versa)