The cache is a 4"x6" lock-n-lock container filled with happy smiley
themed swag. It's to cheer you up while you schlep up the steep
"Stairmaster" trail. Hey, it's steep, you're out of breath, your
muscles ache... but you're outside, you're at the Gunks, and it's
much better than sitting behind a desk at work! Don't worry, be
happy!
It is located on a well traveled trail in the Mohonk Preserve -
do not bushwhack, as Preserve land use policy does not allow off
trail travel. The trail is steep but no scrambling is required. It
is a very popular access trail to the cliffs so watch out for
muggles!
Park at the Warwarsing Parking lot after the Mohonk Preserve
Visitor's Center on Rt. 44/55 just below the hairpin turn. On busy
weekends, especially in the autumn, finding parking will be very
difficult. Best bet is to arrive before 9am or late in the
afternoon.
If you park elsewhere and are hiking on the Undercliff Carriage
Road, you can reach the Stairmaster trail from the top.
The Mohonk Preserve is a private land conservation organization
established to protect the Shawangunk Ridge, it is not public land
funded by the government. Therefore there is a day use fee to use
the preserve which funds its maintenance and programs. For the
current day pass fees, check the Mohonk Preserve website. Note that
dogs must be leashed at all times.
p.s. If this cache has run out of smiley related items, please
send me a message so we can replenish the goodies.