Reaching for the Heavens Traditional Cache
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Size: 
(small)
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"The Joshua tree is not a true "tree," in that it does not produce a trunk with annual rings. For the first several decades of its life, the Joshua Tree grows as a vertical stem with no branches. It grows very slowly, only 1/2 to 3 inches (1 to 7 cm) per year, typically reaching 5-10 feet (1.5 to 3 meters) before the first blossoms appear. At this point, the Joshua tree literally takes a new turn in its development. After flowering, the blossoms drop off, leaving a length of dried stalk. New leaves grow beneath this dead portion, and a new branch begins its growth in another direction.
Unlike a typical tree branch, this new stem grows rigidly in a totally different direction, at an angle, horizontally, or even down towards the ground. Each branching stem also abruptly ends its growth after blossoming, and further branches veer off in new directions. As well as ending in blossoming, branching may occur where a stem has been damaged by insects.
After many years, some Joshua trees develop a complex system of twisted branches growing in many directions. Others develop a more harmonious tree shape, while still others remain mostly vertical. The amazing variety of shapes and growth patterns imparts an unusual individuality to each tree.
The largest Joshua tree on record was 80 feet (24 meters) tall and was estimated to be about 1000 years old. Joshua trees typically grow more than 20 feet tall (6 meters). They may take 60 years to come to maturity, and can live more than 500 years."
by Richard Katz
Now with this being said, it makes you wonder about this tree. Did this tree follow it's natural growth pattern or could nature have injected this marvel with steroids?
The cache is an altoids tin container and is placed in the typical desert Joshua bark pile in a bush near a pile of Joshua carcass. With this said, no need to lift any pieces except for one small piece.Like always, never stick your hand in places you can’t see as you will be in critter country. Please respect the Desert and stay on designated roads.
The route here could be a little challenging for a 2-wheel drive with some sandy spots if you're approaching from the north. Running through these sections at 30 MPH will give you piece of mind. You just pick and choose your route. This portion here is GeoCamry safe. Access from La Mesa Road (south of GZ) from Wilson Ranch Road is the best and easiest route. You may have just over a mile of dirt road to deal with from the south and a mile and half from the north. Please be mindful of those who live nearby. No need to blow through these roads kicking up dust, except for those sandy spots mentioned above. Pictures are welcomed and maybe you can give some idea of the height.
September 5, 2018 - The Giant has fallen and now laying to rest at N 34 29.245' W 117 31.448'. No longer will you see him Reaching for the Heavens.....
Additional Hints
(Decrypt)
haqre ohfu, haqre onex, 2aq ohfu sebz ebnq