Pioneer Cache Traditional Geocache
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Size: 
(regular)
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Elevation 1245' A hard 5 mile hike in and a multiple of choices to hike out.
There are numerous creek crossings, easy to cross, make sure your boots are waterproofed. You must have a topo map of this area, a trail map is best, the trail is sometimes difficult to decipher but with a trail map and compass you shouldn't have too much of a problem.
In the early 1800's, Sylvester Paddy began the first logging of this area. The timber was transported by river to St Louis that supplied a great deal of the lumber used for the construction of that city. From the mid and late 1800's until the 1930's, the area was homesteaded and grazed as open range.
The Paddy Creek Wilderness is 7019 acres located in northwestern Texas County, the area is characterized by Big Paddy & Little Paddy Creeks with steep cliffs, rock outcrops and beautiful overlooks.
Throughout the area, wildlife typical of the Missouri Ozarks is present. Whitetailed deer, wild turkey, squirrel, rabbit, fox, coyote and bobcat are common.
You will find this treasure trove not far from the junction of the Big Piney Trail and an old Military Road NW of an old homestead where only the chimney has survived. The Big Piney is an impressive Missouri trail that rewards the hiker with refreshing spring water, inspiring vistas and gorgeous pines.
When you visit, please practice "leave no trace" techniques of traveling and camping. This includes not leaving refuse or litter (CITO); anything that could pollute a stream, lake, or other water; leaving a fire burning; cutting or defacing live or dead vegetation, etc.
Only hikers or horseback riders are allowed in wilderness. Groups should remain small (less than 10 people); stock should not be tied to trees, and camps should be at least 100' from water or trails. Trails are primitive with no bridges and few markings.
Be prepared with maps, compass and of course gps unit, and plenty of supplies.
From Paddy Creek:
Trailhead & Parking is at N 37 33.502 / W092 02.829
Elevation 944'
If you loose the trail; head for N 37 32.702 / W092 03.720
Elevation 1222' you will find US Bearing Markers and the trail close by.
From Roby Lake:
Trailhead & Parking is at N 37 31.280 / W092 07.416
Elevation 1139'
The Paddy Creek is a longer and more strenuous hike whereas the Roby Lake is a shorter hike into the cache. I recommend the Roby Lake hike in and to take the North Loop; it is a very scenic and enjoyable hike. Many surprises on the way around to the cache, including a step across the thresh hole where Mother Nature's fury strikes hot and never hits the same spot twice.
A topo map is a must!!
The cache is 125' off trail, it is a small ammo container & it is stocked full trinkets for trade.
GOOD LUCK & GOOD HUNTING!!!
Thanks to the Forest Service, Nancy Freakes & Carol Trokey for allowing this cache to be re-placed and good for the hunt again.
Additional Hints
(Decrypt)
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