GC1Z7MD The Magnificent Other Half Dome (Traditional Cache) in California, United States created by Balthazar 'DragonsWest' Muir

This cache has been archived.

DragonsWest: This location is now out of bounds. But who knows, America's great treasures sometimes appear in different places.

GC1Z7MD ▼

A cache by Balthazar 'DragonsWest' Muir Message this owner

Hidden : 9/27/2009

Difficulty:

Terrain:

Size: Size: other (other)

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Geocache Description:

One of America's lesser known wonders

Once there was a mighty mountain man who told tall tales and stretched yarns such that you could knit a sweater for all of California from them, had you a mind to. He related his adventures of rafting mighty rivers, scaling towering cliffs and catching a ride with eagles so's he'd be home in time for supper. And that mountain man was none other than Balthazar Muir, John's forgotten half-brother.
	Now old Balthazar he got into his cups and when he did he'd get all misty-eyed and tell of the one great regret in his life. He'd heard tell of another Half Dome, which he was certain would have made his name, if only he could have discovered it and told President Lincoln to preserve that land, too, so future generations may enjoy it. Then he'd be a bit uneasy, as it reminded him of his half-brother John, who had found that old lump of granite up in the Sierras and was be forever associated with.
The wizened old man would often go walking about, days on end, in search of the legendary other Half Dome. Sometimes he'd lose his way ...
	run plum out of water...
or lose his boots and have to continue on barefoot. But you know, that old mountain man, one day he came crawling home, worn to a frazzle and the look in his eyes betrayed the frail health he still clung to life with. He smiled the smile of one who knows something .. knows something wonderous. Something that will change the world and indelibly write his name in the annals of history. Right up there with his famous ol' half-brother John.

He'd found it, he said. He'd finally found it. And with his dying breath he told of that Magnificent Other Half Dome and you, too can share in all its glory and wonder!

Now you know where it is, go out and experience it. Claim, you too have seen the other Half Dome and take your picture with it and post it here to show people you're not some crazy old mountaineer talking rubbish alla time. Just remember to put it back when you're done, cuz it's kinda shy. OK?

A brief note on Rattlesnakes: Yes they have been seen here and this is their home and natural territory. You could as easily meet one in the open grass as it hunts prey. We are visitors in their home. Please be mindful of your surroundings, give them space if you see them and never stick your hand in anywhere you cannot see all around. Best to explore with a hiking pole.

Additional Hints (Decrypt)

Abg va prageny ynetr ebpxl nern, ohg ba gur crevcurel. Frrx n fheercgvgvbhf cvyvat bs fgbar. Nyjnlf purpx pnershyyl jvgu n uvxvat cbyr nf fanxrf yvir va gur cnex naq tenivgngr gbjneqf ebpxf sbe furygre.

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)