GC4BK5D Big smile (Traditional Cache) in California, United States created by Scstroller

This cache has been archived.

SCStroller: This one seems to be gone. It’s home inside Big Smile tree is pretty wrecked. Tree is rotting from the inside out. Plus lots of rodent droppings inside. So, we will put a new cache in the general vicinity soon.

GC4BK5D ▼

A cache by Scstroller Message this owner

Hidden : 5/4/2013

Difficulty:

Terrain:

Size: Size: small (small)

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Geocache Description:

A beautiful and under utilized state park right off Highway 152 at the top of Pacheco Pass. The cache is about a 15 minute hike from the parking lot. Room for a few trinkets but BYO pen or pencil. Day use fee or annual state park pass to park inside the gate, or park outside and walk a bit farther.

Pacheco State Park is one of the newer state parks. We first visited it in 1998, soon after it opened. We saw some of the most wonderful spring wildflower displays we have ever seen anywhere. The rolling hills, oak trees, and wildlife (and domestic cows that still graze here) have always made it a favorite place to hike.

It is also a place where you need to be prepared for the weather. Never hike here without plenty of water as temperatures can become very hot in late spring through the fall. Winds can be fierce, and in the winter rain can soak you to the skin, but the park and the views are worth it!

This cache is near the main parking area, about a 15 minute hike. Park your car, pick up a trail map, and walk up the road past the picnic areas and through the road gate until you see the trail head on your left. Follow your gps up the trail from there. The cache is about 8 feet off the trail. Watch for ticks in grass season, and be careful that the cache does not fall when you are retrieving it.

After finding the cache, if you have the time, continue up the trail. The views from the Spikes Peak Trail are incredible, and you very well may have the entire park to yourselves. Enjoy!
Congratulations to Kemborg for FTF. You had a beautiful day to walk the hills.

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