GC3X0EX Two Bridges Cache (Traditional Cache) in Eastern Cape, South Africa created by MountaineerWarrior

This cache has been archived.

Knagur Green: Due to no response from the CO after the request to maintain or replace the cache, I am archiving it to, stop it showing on the listings and/or to create place for the geocaching community.

The Geocache Maintenance guideline explains a CO's responsibility towards checking and maintaining the cache when problems are reported.

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If the CO feels that this cache has been archived in error please feel free to contact me within 30 days, via email or message via my profile ,quoting the GC number concerned

Thank you for understanding

Knagur Green
Groundspeak Volunteer Reviewer

GC3X0EX ▼

A cache by MountaineerWarrior Message this owner

Hidden : 9/17/2012

Difficulty:

Terrain:

Size: Size: small (small)

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Geocache Description:

This is a peaceful spot for a cache and a picnic with the family on the R102.

From this beautiful spot 2 bridges crossing the Van Stadens river can be seen. The largest of the two (on the N2) was opened on 11 November 1971. It took 4 years to complete (1967 - 1971) and is the 1st of 5 large concrete bridges along the N2. The bridge is an arch bridge design with a height of 140 m. (460 ft) and a span of 198.1 m. (649.9 ft). The construction method used was Cantilever construction using temporary cable-stays. It is the largest concrete arch bridge in Southern Africa and the N2 is the only highway in the world (outside of China or Italy) to have 3 bridges in excess of 500 ft (152 m) in height.

Sadly, this incredible feat of engineering, has earned itself the name of 'The Bridge of Death'. Only 12 days after this bridge was opened (Nov 1971) the bridge took its first life. Up to 29 December 2012 a total of 87 people have leapt to their deaths. This is the only bridge in the world to be named The Bridge of Death although the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco has claimed 1200 lives - the highest number in the world. A R1 million video-camera surveillance system was installed on the N2 in August 2005 and has saved 20 lives already.

The second bridge is on the R102 (which you would have come along to approach this spot) and is the old Van Stadens pass bridge. Unfortunately, we have been unable to dig up any history on this bridge.

The concrete remains of the original drift over the river can still be seen amongst the rocks and boulders.

Upstream of the Van Stadens bridge there is a 2 ft (610 mm) guage railway bridge known as the Avontuur Railway Bridge. The well-known Apple Express crosses this on its way to the Thornhill turning point at a height of 253 ft (77 m).

Despite the sadness around this area, take a stroll along the rocky banks and enjoy the sounds of the ever-running river.

Stealth mode is required during weekends and holiday seasons. A logbook and small pencil are available for use. Space for small tradeable items (first trading item is a dinosaur). The container is a clip lock type, please replace exactly as found and seal the plastic ziplock bag properly.

Happy caching! FTF goes to Navimate.

Additional Hints (Decrypt)

2 oevqtrf gb lbhe onpx, 2 qrnq gerrf gb lbhe evtug jvyy uryc lbh frnepu jvgu nyy lbhe zvtug.

Decryption Key

A|B|C|D|E|F|G|H|I|J|K|L|M
-------------------------
N|O|P|Q|R|S|T|U|V|W|X|Y|Z

(letter above equals below, and vice versa)