The cache is near an environmentally sensitive area, particularly
in wintertime. To minimize traffic, the actual co-ordinates are not
given above, you must find the "Key" to search for this cache. The
key is a travel bug, see http://www.geocaching.com/track/details.aspx?id=1626
for its present location.
The co-ordinates above are for one of several parking areas in
the vicinity of the cache, not the cache itself. There are closer
places to park, but the co-ordinates above will give you a nice
walk.
Terrain is mostly flat, a pleasant walk. It's possible to drive
within 500 feet of the cache if you choose. This is an
environmentally sensitive area. Bikes are discouraged, dogs should
be on a leash. It is NOT necessary to go into any roped-off or
off-limits area to find the cache. Tree cover makes GPS reception a
bit tricky. You might want to get a distance and bearing from a
clear spot for reference.
Difficulty of 3 because you must find the key, poor GPS
reception, and because the cache is well hidden from casual
observers. Please be discreet when finding and re-hiding the cache
and leave it as secure and well-hidden as when you found it.
Cache contains useful stuff for all ages as well as some
"themed" items referencing the area.
Here's how it works:
- First, find the "Key to the
Monarchy" travel bug. It should be in a geocache in the Santa
Barbara area.
- Follow the instructions on the key tag, which will have the
actual co-ordinates to the cache. Take the key with you when
searching for the cache.
- After you find this cache, write down the travel bug's number
and place the "Key" travel bug in another geocache in the Santa
Barbara area, preferably a different one than where you found it,
NOT IN THIS CACHE! The "Key" shouldn't wander too far from the
greater Santa Barbara area.
- Register the travel bug's new location in the cache where you
placed it. If you can't figure out how to do this, send me a note and I'll fix it.
Idea stolen from the "Nutria" cache in Oregon.