Another cache placed along the hike to Ship’s Peak, this
brings the number of caches along this trail to 4, creating Orcas
Island’s own version of a “power trail.”
Parking is available at the trail head
located at N 48° 38.494 W 122° 58.623. There too, is the only
bathroom you will find on this trip, and yes, it is a port-a-potty.
The hike itself is not long but it is very steep in places so be
prepared (we highly recommend bringing water). There are some
lovely resting places (and caches) along the way that will give you
a chance to catch your breath and maybe take a photo or two.
The trail starts out near what is left of an old homestead. You
can see the beautiful stone foundation and fireplace that are still
standing, and in the spring a few flowers left over from the garden
still bloom nearby. The trail continues on through the woods before
joining up with the old Clapp driveway. This road will take you
most of the way up the mountain to Ship’s Peak. This cache is
located about halfway up, but we strongly encourage you to complete
the entire hike as the views from above are unparalleled.
Years ago, the Norton Clapp family owned a summer residence up
here, which was often referred to as The Cabana. Today, all that
remains of The Cabana is some concrete footing that still sticks up
out of the ground near This Cache Is Calling You (GC2HMXM ). Along
the road in places you can see the rotting remains of log
guard-rails that were placed here at that time. Also, the
occasional remnant can be found of the single power line that ran
up the hillside and serviced the building.
As mentioned before, this cache is located about halfway up the
hillside on the way to Ship’s Peak. Turtleback Mountain and
all of its trails are managed by the Land Bank as a preserve, so
please remember to stay on the trail. There is no bushwacking
required for this cache! As you pass the first viewpoint (and
bench, ideal for catching your breath) and near ground zero, there
is a game trail that leads off to the right. Please take that trail
to access the cache.