We've been wanting to climb this mountain for years now, but
it's name, "Rattlesnake Mountain," was a bit of a turn off. We're
not very big fans of snakes, and when we found out that RSM was not
just a nickname, but the mountain's official name (it even appears
on Google Earth), we kept our distance.
But enough's enough, and today up we went. Now, please note, we
did not see or hear ONE rattler on today's climb, but they are up
there. As we were getting out of the car and gearing up at the
base, a nice gentleman drove by, rolled down his window and said,
"Be careful of rattlers! I take care of a woman's house nearby, and
a 6' rattler just came down the hill and ate a chicken from her
coup." Greeeeeaat. Just what we wanted to hear.
So, the three caches we hid up the hill today will all come with
spoiler photos. We don't want anyone getting hurt up there. PLEASE
use the photo. Bring a hiking stick (or two), and make a lot of
racket on your hike. Wear snake guards or gaiters if you have them.
Of course bring lots of water, even in the winter (we broke a good
sweat hiding these). Finally, do NOT put your hands anywhere you
haven't banged with your stick a few times. These caches are all
hidden in rocks, where you'd typically find snakey snakes.
Have fun, and please be safe.
Best,
Mr. & Mrs. Wisearse.