Bighorn Vista Point Traditional Cache
-
Difficulty:
-
-
Terrain:
-
Size: 
(regular)
Please note Use of geocaching.com services is subject to the terms and conditions
in our disclaimer.
A traditional cache placed out on the Mojave Desert southeast of Minneola Ridge.
Having been out to this area a short while back placing a cache named Bosom Gap during a snow storm; we were glad to return on a much nicer day to do a little more exploring of the area. Landloper was in town and wanted to get a little exercise, so we figured this would be a great place to bring him. We actually found the right road into the area this trip and parked within a stones throw of the nearby Mr&MrsWisearse's mystery cache. You'll want to do a little topo homework prior to coming out here, to be sure to find the correct and easier way to access this area. We made it without incident in a 2WD Isuzu Rodeo, which has fairly high ground clearance. We still had to get out and move a rock or two along the way. It would be a long hike back to Newberry Springs from here if one poked a hole in the old fuel tank.
We parked within about a mile of the cache; a 4WD or bike may be able to get a little closer, but you'll all end up hiking a bit before you get to this one. Hiking is fun!!
The cache is in an ammo box on top of a little hill, which offers a great view of the cliffs to the west. I'm sure if one arrived early enough in the morning there would be a good chance of spotting some Bighorn sheep up on those cliffs. They have been spotted on nearby Lava Mountain. There have also been cougar sightings in the area around Minneola Ridge so be wary. Naturally, you need to be aware of all the other desert critters who call this area their home. Watch where you step and place your hands, make noise as you hike along, bring plenty of water and food in case you break down and have to spend the night.
By now there should be quite a carpet of wildflowers covering the desert floor. They were growing vigorously when we placed the cache, but hadn't started to bloom yet. They should all be taller and in full bloom for the next few weeks. A fully blooming desert is quite a sight to see, so be sure to bring your cameras. All the vegetative growth on the desert floor also provides better cover for snakes, so it would be wise to tip-toe through the tulips, rather than just stomp along. Enjoy!!
Additional Hints
(Decrypt)
Pnpur vf ybpngrq va n zvav pnir ba gur abegu rnfg fvqr bs gur uvyy arne gur gbc. N srj jryy cynprq fgbarf uvqr gur bcravat.
Treasures
You'll collect a digital Treasure from one of these collections when you find and log this geocache:
Loading Treasures