This is a virtual cache because the local park authorities do not want visitors to stray off the trail. PLEASE DO NOT STRAY OFF THE MARKED TRAIL INTO UNSAFE AREAS.
Some will come by car, some will come by horse, and others will come on foot. You could approach by boat, however this is not recommended, as the final cache spot is not accessible by boat. Many will bring their children for an outing of fun and adventure.
Stop in at the Nature Center/gift shop for a trail map, and try your luck at spotting wild birds in the area. Take the short, self-guided nature hike and see some interesting plants, including some poison ivy. Use the facilities at the Nature Center, as there are no restrooms very near to the cache.
Let the “Buzzards” lead you on journey to the cache. Stay on the trail and you will be rewarded with a beautiful view of the lake from a vantage point about 40 feet above the water. WARNING: no one is allowed on the rocks for any reason at the final cache location. Climbing on the rocks is unsafe and against park rules.
Park closes at sundown.
As always, be alert for mosquitos, poison ivy and snakes.
See encrypted hint below for help on the easiest route to the cache.
Tips to enhance your visit to the park:
- Bring your fishing gear or you can get a loaner at the Nature Center.
- Bring your canoe, horse, and your bird-watching binoculars
- Visit the other areas of this park. Activities include hiking, canoeing, and horseback riding. Most hiking trails are easy terrain. UPDATE: January 2014, canoe rentals ARE available at the main picnic area at the end of the road.
- More park details and a PDF map available at http://charmeck.org/mecklenburg/county/ParkandRec/StewardshipServices/NaturePreserves/Pages/Latta.aspx/
- Of course, visit the Carolina Raptor Center http://www.carolinaraptorcenter.org/ for an up close look at live hawks, eagles, owls and possibly a turkey buzzard.