Far above the Columbia River, past some grassy meadows and up along a rocky creek, a small waterfall spills into a massive three-sided headwall near the top of Archer Mountain. A vast area of rocks with large patches of green moss and a few stubborn maple trees covers the landscape below the cliffs. During the rainy season, you will see many smaller falls running down the cliffs into the moss covered rock slopes.
Somewhere up there near the base of the headwall is where you will find the cache, but getting to it will be an adventure. There is no trail once you reach the creek from the parking area. So be sure to wear sturdy hiking boots with long pants and a long sleeved top (Devils Club). You may find yourself with a few easy stream crossings, just depends how you choose your route. You will also find yourself walking along rocky slopes that can be very slippery in wet weather. Oh yeah, Did I mention the patches of Devils Club along the way? But other than that, it's an enjoyable hike up to this great spot that rarely will see any visitors, except for an occasional geocacher. Don't forget a lunch, because there are some great spots up near the cache to sit on the moss, take a break, and enjoy the surroundings.
Begin your adventure at the parking coordinates listed below, which is the end of Smith Cripe Road and can be accessed off Hwy 14. Hike up the road past the gate through an old orchard and some grassy meadows until you reach Archer Creek at the base of Archer Mountain. Find a faint trail that runs above the creek towards the cache. From here you are on your own. Once the trail drops down to the creek, the easiest route may be to stay along the creek and cross back and forth a few times picking the best route as you head up the creek. Good luck and I hope you enjoy the adventure!
PARKING COORDINATES
N 45° 36.785' W 122° 07.053'
- On certain days, because of the cache location, satellite geometry may make it difficult to get a full lock on enough birds. You may need the detailed hint and a compass.
- Allow 3-4 hours to complete your adventure.
- Plan on approximately three miles roundtrip with 600 feet of elevation gain.
- Do not attempt this cache without sturdy hiking boots.
- Cross country travel is required along part of the route and some rocky portions can be very slippery when wet..
- This cache is not suitable for children.
- Do not attempt this cache at night.
- Wear some rain pants in wet weather, you'll get soaked from the underbrush.
- Cache is a small ammo can.
