The posted coordinates are in the general area of the cache, but they do not pinpoint the cache location or the nearest parking spot.
Solving the Puzzles
Below are nine separate logic puzzles, “A” through “I”. The rules to solve these are simple. You have to draw lines between the dots to form a single continuous loop without crossings or branches. The numbers indicate how many lines surround it (the number). There is only one solution for each puzzle. If it were easy, it wouldn’t be any fun!
The Puzzles
Finding the Coordinates
Once all nine puzzles are completed the results must be used to solve the equations below to determine the Cache coordinates. Determine the "Inside Sum". That is the sum of the numbers inside all nine loops (A-I). And then the "Outside Sum". That is the sum of the numbers outside all nine loops (A-I).
The Equations
The Actual Cache Coordinates
Take the results from the equations and plug them in here:
Checking Your Coordinates
If you’d like to check your solution prior to venturing out (recommended), click on this link:
Verify Your Coordinates
Finding the Cache
When you set out to find this cache you will not – if you are careful – need a four-wheel drive vehicle to negotiate the various dirt roads, but you will certainly be well served by a high clearance vehicle. Since the area is remote, and out of reach of some cell phone services (although I did have AT&T 3G at the site), you should let an acquaintance know where you plan to go and when you expect to return. You should take water and food in the event you get stranded.
You will need sturdy walking shoes (for the short 10 minute hike) and maybe a walking stick for traversing the rough-surfaced lava and sand. There is a decent "ramp" about 120 yards south of the parking area you can use to get into and out of the cache area.
There’s a nice place here to park, have lunch, and enjoy the quiet surroundings.
Keep a close watch for rattlesnakes which especially favor rodent burrows and the numerous recesses around the craters and lava flows. Remember this is the desert; everything here can stick you, sting you, or bite you.
Give a wide berth to individuals walking across the desert because illegal immigrants and even drug couriers sometimes manage to cross the border, elude the Border Patrol, and pass through the area.
First to Find
Congratulations to Mr. Waldo!!! For his efforts, he picked up a new Winchester pocket knife and holster. But no worries... there should still be plenty of bling remaining in the cache can.