You can download a topo map of tekoa and some information on vegetation from (Here)
The Sawbreaker series of caches will take you on a nice, gradual ascent to the top of Tekoa Mountain- One of the most stunning and prominent geographic features in the Greater Westfield area. It is known for it's rocky ledges visible from route 20 and the Mass Pike. You will be rewarded at the top with some stunning views of the western pioneer valley as well as the eastern Berkshire hills with a 360 degree panorama.
One thing we have learned through our time geocaching is that we HATE "micros in the woods". So what did we do? We set up an entire series of micros in the woods. Hey- we've never been known for doing things that make sense!
There are a few things you need to know before starting this series:
1. Parking by gate at posted coordinates
2. The hike is approx 5-6 miles ONE WAY so remember that you will also have to hike back!
3. Alternatively we have posted coordinates for parking at the old Strathmore Plant which is on the other side of the mountain. One suggestion would be to park one car at "Gate Parking" and then drive to "Strathmore Parking" to make it a one-way hike. This is a great, but STEEP, hike that will aford you the opportunity for some amazing views and also to find some other caches in the area. the total distance for this hike is approx 7 miles.
4. Do not underestimate this hike. Bring plenty of water, start early in the day. There are severe cliffs and dramatic drop-offs near the top so use caution with children and animals. No cache is worth you life (or so we've been told).
5. Wear good, WATERPROOF, boots. Many sections of the trail can be very WET at certain (most) times of the year.
6. Yes- the entire series of caches are bison tube caches hidden in the woods. Fear not! Many of them are very easy, some are not so easy, and there are a few surprises thrown in just to keep it interesting. If you are the type of person who doesn't have the time, patience, or inclination to hunt for micros in the woods without going crazy (like we are) you may want to skip this series.
7. There are no published trail maps of the area and the trail system is fairly complex. Stay on the trails and use waypoints!
8. GPS signal can be bouncy in some areas so if you find better coordinates for any of the caches please post!
HAVE FUN!!!
if you have any questions on the area/trails/Sawbreaker series, please feel free to email us at TeamWegiel@gmail.com. or through one of our profile pages. (Jawbreaker1222) (Sawdust11)
Load the cache Just Scan This Code