Pepperwood-Canebrake Parasaurolophus Traditional Cache
Pepperwood-Canebrake Parasaurolophus
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Difficulty:
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Terrain:
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Size: 
(regular)
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The upper reaches of Canebrake Valley feature many fantastical rock formations, many of which can be fair game for interpretation by fertile imaginations. This particular feature reminded me of a Cretaceous critter, the crested Parasaurolophus dinosaur.
This cache is hidden near the northern terminus of the Pepperwood Trail, a long established route for generations of Kumeyaay who traveled seasonally between Canebrake Valley and McCain Valley. Morteros, pottery shards, village sites, and pre-historic rock art may be found in this remote and infrequently visited portion of BLM’s Sawtooth Wilderness.
Closest parking is available at the barricaded north end of McCain Valley Road. An unmarked path winds generally northeast then north through rolling high desert chaparral toward Pepperwood Canyon. Parking coordinates are N 32 49.414, W 116 20.702, elevation 4400 feet. Within 1/2 mile you will reach a barbwire fence. Cross through it and continue north-northeasterly along a faint path that eventually reaches a more conspicuous trail northward. At Pepperwood Spring, marked on USGS Topos, the best option is to cross over to the east side of the canyon and climb up a short distance to regain the trail northward and down to the cache site. Distance from McCain Valley Road is 7 miles round trip with an elevation loss/gain of 2000 feet.
Alternatively, you can start from the “official” trailhead for the Pepperwood Trail, located in the eastern section of Cottonwood Campground. This route is easier to follow but adds nearly 4 miles round trip to the hike.
The cache container is a red 9-inch diameter Christmas tin. Initial contents include a handmade bead gecko, a Beanie-style gecko, a LIVESTRONG wrist band, a new web belt/strap with buckle, a selection of lizards, and as a special bonus, a complete set of 30 Yrium Memorial Series cards.
The usual desert hazards apply. In addition to an abundance of yucca, cholla, and catclaw, you will be descending 2000 feet, meaning a return climb of 2000 feet. Please make sure you bring ample water as Pepperwood Spring is not a reliable source. It can get quite hot here in the summer months and chilly in winter months. Please plan ahead and be prepared.
Enjoy!
Additional Hints
(Decrypt)
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