The Old Bay Path Traditional Cache
goodguys101: Finis.
2013-2019
37 finds
Had a good run but unfortunately site has been trammeled by seekers more than once. Guess leave no trace doesn’t apply to many folks these days. Farewell.
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Difficulty:
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Terrain:
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Size: 
(micro)
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The paved road just below you is the modern Bay Road, heavily used by commuters and travellers as they travel through the Pioneer Valley. It follows the route of the Old Bay Path, a trail once used by Native Americans and later early European pioneers and settlers.
"The first trails in the area were made by deer and other animals. Indians followed those paths and later white men came on foot and horseback. It was not until 1673 that a true route was laid out. This was the old Bay Path which followed an Indian trail from Boston to Albany, New York......The Old Bay Path was improved and called the Bay Road. Toward the end of the 18th century great coaches, drawn by four or even six horses, passed along the road. Taverns sprang up to refresh the weary travelers and rest their horses. Nearly every house welcomed travelers and the extra income they brought. Many farmers along the route kept yokes of oxen ready to pull the coaches out of the muddy ruts in bad weather." From town website: (visit link)
The M&M Trail crosses Bay Road after descending from the Holyoke Range and reenters the woods here, heading north to Route 9 and Holland Glen (Belchertown) over low, forested hills with occasional and limited glimpses of the Mt. Holyoke Range to the west and the Belchertown ponds to the east. The trailhead crossing on the east side of Bay Road was purchased and protected by the Kestrel Trust in 2003, which has posted a sign at the trail head.
There is limited roadside parking at the trail head along Bay Road. Better parking requiring a short walk to the trail head is nearby at the intersection with Warren Wright Road.
Camo'ed matchstick container. Not available in winter means it is not a winter friendly hide.
Place things back carefully. Enjoy and LEAVE NO TRACE.
Congratulations to chief20r2 and Capt. Bob for the FTF!
Additional Hints
(Decrypt)
qrnq arne gur juvgr oynmr
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