A new twist to an old cache! This is an expansion of our prior Rager Mountain Cache to help you explore the full 1.6 mile loop of the scenic Clark Run Trail. Posted coordinates are for the first stage. Additional key locations are numbered in sequence below. This can be extended to a 5 mile loop by including the Rager Mountain Trail which you will intersect beyond Stage 1
This is probably our most favorite place to hike locally. You've got a great climb up a very steep mountain side to begin the hike and then you'll be boulder hopping your way back on the second half through some gorgeous forest! There is also an impressive view of the Conemaugh Gap! It just gets prettier and prettier as you go!
If you've already done the old Rager Mountain Cache you may still want to do this new one, as the nicer part of this hike is actually the second half, which wasn't a part of the old cache.
To reach this cache, you'll need to park at the Dr. Charles F. Lewis Natural Area, which is located along RT 403, just inside the Indiana County line, at the published coordinates. Follow the Clark Run Trail (yellow blazes) counter-clockwise up the steps along the stream. No bushwhacking is needed.
Gather information along the way and do some math to get the final coordinates. Follow the trail NW from the second intersection coordinates to finish the loop, and to get the final info needed to claim this cache. Check out the other coordinates listed for some interesting points along the trail.
Boots and water are recommended. A hiking stick or trekking poles were helpful especially on the second half of the trail. Expect at least 2 hours for this hike.
Warnings...
- This area is known for rattlesnakes and copperheads. We've never seen them, others have, but just be aware that they're there.
- State Forest Land open to hunting, wear orange when appropriate.
- Due to the steep and rocky terrain, this cache is not recommended for small children.
- This parking area is also known as a meeting point for other noncaching activity. Males hiking alone should be cautious of others.
Good luck and have fun!
Find the following at the posted Stage points:
A B C + zk D E F - Delta numbers from the beach(sic)
G - last digit of "Eric's" year (Also at Stage 1)
The final cache is located at
N40-24. 0 4 0 W78-58. 1 0 0
+ F C E G B A
N40-24. __ __ __ W78-58. __ __ __
The cache is now a medium size lock n lock container with a green lid. Although final coords are now fully available at Stage 1, proceed to Intersections 1 and 2, rather than attempting a straight line approach. Spoiler pic of the hide is provided.