'An Otter Traditional Cache' wasn't muggled, it was mugged...by a
severe t-storm on the morning of July 11, 2011. That storm, a
'derecho', was estimated to have straight-line wind speeds up to
120 mph in some parts of Tama and Benton Counties. It carved a path
of destruction about 10 miles wide and 50 miles long. You will
probably see remnant damage from the storm as you walk the trails
to this cache.
Like its predecessors, this cache is a little 'off-trail' so
please watch your step, wear bug spray in season, look out for
poison ivy, and just have fun. I was tempted to name this cache
'The Trident' and you'll see why when you find it. Please replace
the cache as you found it with plenty of cover.
The park manager's primary concern is that visitors who are NOT
camping at the improved campground (NE portion of the park) STAY
OUT of that area and respect the park rules and the privacy of all
campers. The park roads and trails on this side of the lake are
quite steep in places so use extreme caution as you drive and hike.
Also note that roads in this park may be closed in winter. If
you're walking - snow or no - you'll get a good cardio workout!
This is a county park so it is closed late in the evening (closing
time is 10:30 PM). Sorry to all the hardcore cache-by-night hunters
out there.
I encourage you to take your time and explore a little but
leave-no-trace and respect the area and all its inhabitants. Thank
you.