This multi-cache will take you to most of the memorial benches and plaques on Bald Hill. Information from those waypoints will help you to determine the actual location of the cache. You will also be able to log a number of other traditional geocaches along the way.
The published coordinates are the best place for you to begin your trek. You can also park here. A trail map can be found on-line here. There is also a trail map at the kiosk near the parking area, but I suggest that you bring one with you.
Although you can visit the waypoints in any order, my sequence is probably the most efficient route. Expect approximately a 3.5 mile hike, with some (but not too much) elevation change. Some of the trails can be very muddy/slippery, so sturdy shoes or hiking boots are highly recommended.
Waypoint 1
WARNING: As of 8/11/2014, there is a hornet's nest very close to this bench. So that you can maintain a safe distance, proceed with the knowledge that A = 8. Approach (or sit!) upon this bench at your risk!
A = the number of letters in the doctor's last name
Waypoint 2
Stand facing the tree so that the two benches are at 10:00 and 2:00 in front of you.
B = the number of letters in the first name on the bench at 10:00
C = the number of letters in the first name on the bench at 2:00
(Be sure to log GC5AJVY while you are here.)
Waypoint 3
D = the total number of letters in the person's name
Waypoint 4
E = the total number of letters in the person's name
Waypoint 5
Look for the plaque near the bench.
F = the number of times that "Midge Cramer" appears upon the plaque
(Be sure to log GC5AJRJ while you are here.)
Waypoint 6
G = the total number of letters in the person's name (do not include the Biblical name)
(Be sure to log GC4EB7E while you are here.)
Waypoint 7
H = the total number of letters in the person's name (not including the name of the poem)
Waypoint 8
As of July 2013, the bench has been removed, but there should be a plaque nearby...
J = the number of words in the bottom row upon the plaque
Waypoint 9
K = the number of letters in the couple's last name
(Be sure to log GC5APV7 slightly down the hill.)
Waypoint 10
Look for the inscribed rock near the bench.
L = the total number of letters (ignoring punctuation) carved into the rock
And now for a bit of math!
M = D + E + F
P = ( G + H + J ) * 3
Q = A + B + C
R = A + B + C + K + L
The cache is located at:
N 44 M.P W 123 Q.R
The checksum of all digits in the final coordinates is 43. The checksum of the bench information (A+B+C+D+E+F+G+H+J+K+L) is 136. NOTE: If zeroes are involved, use your common sense to determine their placement within the coordinates. The final location is on Bald Hill!
Bald Hill is notorious for poison oak. You will NOT encounter it while visiting any of the waypoints. There is no reason to leave the trail at any point during this multi-cache, not even for the final location. However, despite my best attempts to avoid the nasty stuff, apparently there is a single sprig behind the hiding spot and poking up to the right. It is VERY easy to avoid but please be advised that it is present, hence the attribute. (If you are not sure how to identify poison oak, look here.)
The container is a small lock-and-lock. When you sign the log, please write small, do not use an entire page, and use both sides of the sheets. Also please make sure that the log book is in its plastic bag, the lid is securely closed, and that the container is covered with natural camo so that it is not visible from the trail.
Congratulations to step2626 for being FTF!