For a few years in the 1930's Gabriola Island quarries provided
sandstone for industrial use. Millstones cut from the cliffs near
Descanso Bay were used in the pulp and paper industry to grind wood
into pulp.
Visit the Gabriola Island Museum for more information.
Today, the quarry site is off limits due to safety concerns, but
you can walk a short trail and see a pile of old millstones. The
site also offers a panoramic view of Descanso Bay.
There is a trail head on Easthom Road which will lead up to the
quarry and the cache. As you walk up the trail, you might find an
old drill bit used to core out the mill stones.
There is a steep and high cliff at the end of the trail, and
there's no need to get too close. Respect the signs and hold any
small children by the hand.
EDIT 2025: I'm no longer able to visit this cache. I made this cache many years ago when I was visiting the island regularly. Sadly, I haven't been to the island in some years. I do enjoy occasionally getting messages that someone has visited. Hopefully, someone else can keep this cache going. - Baloo