Ugh! Just now realized the cache is need of attention! I'll make
a point to get out there as soon as possible and get a new
container in place. I guess it isn't bad for 7+ years.
You will start at the trailhead and hike to the top the ridge. To
reach the physical top of Rocky Mountain (and the cache) you will
have to leave the trail at the ridge top and hike south for about
.2 miles. The cache will be hidden among an interesting rock
formation. Be sure to search around the entire rock pile.
To get there:
From Blue Ridge travel east on E. First St. (top of hill from door
of Toccoa Ranger Station) to Aska Road (1.5 miles). South on Aska
Road to Deep Gap (4.4 miles). Parking area on west side below gap.
If desired to access the western terminus continue south on Aska
Road past the parking lot to intersection with Stanley Creek Road
(3.7 miles). Turn west, continue 4.2 miles to parking area 100
yards below Stanley Gap. Stanley Creek Road becomes Rock Creek Road
after crossing Fannin/Gilmer County road.
Warnings:
While the trail is well marked, you will need to leave the trail
for a fair distance to reach the cache. It is probably a good idea
to drop a waypoint at the point you left the trail to ensure you
can get back. There are some steep drops in the area near the
cache. Watch your footing and be sure you know where you are about
to step. This is prime timber rattler and copperhead country and
they seem to like rocky places. Watch where you step and reach.
Finally, please keep an eye out for the local wildlife. While I
have not seen a bear in this location, I have encountered them in
that area. It is always a good idea to make noise as you hike so
that you don't come around a bend and suprise Smokey.