The Brandybrook Semiprimitive Area (which we call the GREAT
Mitchell Swamp) is a large, forested, federally-owned natural area
that is part of a much larger swampland complex. The area has a
tremendous diversity of habitat types, from old growth hemlock and
white pine to lowland hardwoods to shrubby marshland, plus a
50-acre wildlife impoundment. Although the area has no developed or
marked hiking trails, there are a number of small,
closed-to-vehicles two-track roads that will take you through a
variety of habitats if you are willing to do some hiking and
exploring.
This area is a well known place to see black bear. Bears
come to this swampland to feed on the ripe, starchy nutlets of
skunk cabbage that grow here in large patches. Look for bear
tracks, droppings, and scratch marks on trees throughout the area.
We saw a pair of eagles fly by as we were placing the
cache.
The cache is a regular size ammo can hidden in a usual
geocaching manner. Off-road parking coordinates are included and
following the lightly used trail will lead you towards the cache.
Depending on the season, bug spray will be necessary. Have
fun!