Super Awesome Fossil Adventure Traditional Cache
Leaf Hunter: Unfortunately, this cache no longer exists. Sorry folks, it was fun while it lasted.
Super Awesome Fossil Adventure
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Difficulty:
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Terrain:
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Size: 
(small)
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This cache is not a park-n-grab, but an excellent day hike to explore vestiges of Humboldt's past, millions of years of natural history, and beautiful landscapes. Located near the Scotia Bluffs, it is one mile down the trail that borders the Eel River and the Northwestern Pacific Railroad. I won't spoil all the fun things you'll find along your journey, but fossils are abundant.
The cache is a lunch box sized official geocache container of clear plastic. It contains some local agates and fossils to trade. Make sure you bring something geology-themed to trade.
The trail itself is an easy and level hike: its getting to the trail that requires some care. Take the Scotia Exit from the 101 Highway. Make a right at the "T" intersection and park on the gravel shoulder before the bridge, but do not block the gate. (Are these instructions too boring? Try the additional waypoint.) Once you're at the parking spot, Trail access is found on either side of the bridge. Be careful, the decent is steep. Once down, the trail is directly in front of you. Turn right (North East) and begin your Super Awesome Fossil Adventure.
Update 7/2013: As some have indicated in the logs, this entry point may be inaccessible. An alternate trail head is found by starting at Fireman's Park in Scotia and following the train tracks. The waypoint is located below.
Please be aware of the hazards inherent in hiking the north coast; such as poison ivy, ticks, and eroded trail. You should enjoy this cache with common sense and when the conditions are right. Additionally, there is no need to cross the railroad bridge to obtain this cache. The trail continues beyond the bridge, but is only for those interested in an additional (and dangerous) adventure. The bridge is missing sections and is not for those afraid of heights.
For more information about this geological site and others in Humboldt County, you may want to reference Leslie Scopes Anderson's "A Beginner's Fossil Guide to the Northern California Coast: Unearthing Evidence of Creatures from Deep Time." © 2011
Additional Hints
(Decrypt)
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Treasures
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