Bonanza! Virtual Cache
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Difficulty:
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Terrain:
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Size: 
(virtual)
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This cache, located in the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge,
commemorates a brief, but wild, episode in Oklahoma
History.
GOLD! The gold rush fever was at an inevitable high pitch in
the Wichita Mountains at the turn of the century. The gold rush
abounded with miners, prospectors, grafters, and promoters in the
early 1900's. In 1901, when the land was opened for settlement, the
"gold fever" increased until several hundred miners set up camps in
the Wichita Forest Reserve and the adjoining area, in search of
precious metals.
The site that is the subject of this cache is identified as the
Bonanza Mine by some topographic maps. This mine shaft is one of
the few horizontal tunnels that can be entered and explored. The
mine is a real testament to the determination and fortitude of the
prospectors that sought fortune in these mountains.
This virtual cache lies in the valley south of Elk Mountain and
can best be approached from the Treasure Lake parking area.
Roundtrip hiking distance is approximately one mile over rugged,
rock-strewn ground. The Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge is home
to buffalo, longhorns, and other potentially dangerous animals. Be
alert.
To claim this cache: e-mail a photo that shows you
and your GPS at the mine opening. OKDoke@cox.net
Alternatively: e-mail me the answers to the
following questions:
1. Approximately how large is the opening to the mine?
2. Approximately how deep is the mine shaft?
3. Describe the large, natural object that lies about 40 yards to
the southeast.
Do not post photos or the answers to the questions (even if
encrypted) in your log entry. You may post your "find" log before
you receive a response to your e-mail, but I reserve the right to
delete any logs that do not comply with the requirements.
Happy Geocaching!
Additional Hints
(No hints available.)