GC3KQBZ Vale of Geocaches (Traditional Cache) in New York, United States created by Sara-Cap NYS Parks

This cache has been archived.

Sara-Cap NYS Parks: Good job to all who found this cache. It keeps going AWOL so it is being archived.

GC3KQBZ ▼

A cache by Sara-Cap NYS Parks Message this owner

Hidden : 5/19/2012

Difficulty:

Terrain:

Size: Size: regular (regular)

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Geocache Description:

This cache is placed as part of the New York State Park Saratoga/Capital District Region Geocache Challenge. The Vale of Springs is one of the most unique trails in the state of New York. Four different mineral springs are located in close vicinity of the trail which makes for a truly hands on hike.

This cache is placed as part of the New York State Park Saratoga/Capital District Region Geocache Challenge. There are 44 geocaches hidden within 11 state parks and state historic sites in the Saratoga/Capital District region, and geocachers finding them all will be eligible to enter their names in a drawing for valuable prizes. If you are interested in taking up the challenge, you can pick up a geocache passport at any of the participating parks and sites, or download the passport at www.nysparks.com.

This cache contains a unique stamp which must stay with the cache. Use this stamp to stamp your passport. This stamp is NOT a trade item.

Parking available for free in the east SPAC (Saratoga Performing Arts Center) parking lot off of Route 50 or at the Geyser Creek Picnic Area for an $8 park entry fee. When SPAC has concerts the parking lots can become extremely congested. To check on concert dates please see their calendar (visit link)

The Vale of Springs is one of the most unique trails in the state of New York. Four different mineral springs are located in close vicinity of the trail which makes for a truly hands on hike. Starting at the northern end, Orenda spring flows over the trail creating a large mineral deposit called tufa (too-fah). Walking south, you come to the Island Spouter which has been wowing visitors since the 1930’s. Across from the Island Spouter is Hayes mineral spring which is said to calm the stomach and clear the sinuses if inhaled. Slightly farther down and on the left side of the road is a smaller, more mild tasting spouter called Polaris.

The challenge doesn’t end when you find the cache. Located inside the cache is a list of the main mineral springs at Spa Park. If you’re an adventurous geocacher please take a list and see if you can try them all!

Additional Hints (No hints available.)