Trilateration.......what??? Mystery Cache

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In geometry, this method is called "Trilateration".

Trilateration is the process of determining absolute or relative locations of points by measurement of distances, using the geometry of circles, spheres or triangles. In the case of this cache, the final is located where the given distances measured from any two of the listed waypoints intersect with the given distance from the starting point.

I know..... UGHHHHHHH!!! Geometry ?!?!........ What???

The Distances and Bearings You Will Need

• Bearing from the starting point to the final location.--BEARING=227.7

From the Final Location
• Starting Point--DISTANCE=2170ft//BEARING=47.7

• Waypoint #1-Buzzard's and Woodpeckers--
DISTANCE=920ft//BEARING=216.1

• Waypoint #2-Elegantly Evil--DISTANCE=780ft//BEARING=147.2

• Waypoint#3-A View From the Ridge--DISTANCE=2250ft//BEARING=203.0

Instructions

This is one way this cache can be found.
First locate the starting point in the Buzzard Ridge Wildlife Area. The starting point is conveniently located next to the sign posted at the trail head. The concept is simple. Follow the trail, that follows along the creek into the park, to the point where you are the distance from the starting point that is given. From that location you will need to choose another of the waypoints to adjust your location so that you are the given distance from the starting point and the given distance from the second waypoint. Another waypoint can be added to the procedure to ensure accuracy.

The second way to locate the cache is similar but it uses the bearing directions in the same manner. From the starting point follow the bearing given (Bearing from the starting point to the final location.). This will get you started in the correct direction to GZ, It will also be helpful to know the distance you will need to travel. Once you have traveled the distance given from the starting point in the proper direction by following the bearing given you will need to choose one of the additional waypoints to zero in on GZ. Now, all you need to do is adjust your position to where the bearings from the final match the given bearings to the start and to any of the waypoints given.

Some Helpful Hints

• When I tried this, it was easier when I used two gps units with all of the given waypoints loaded into them.
• All of the waypoints and the starting point are existing nearby geocaches.
• It might be easier with two or more people.
• I also use a free android app. named-GeoMT (geocache multi-tool) to help map and calculate distances and bearings.
• Trilateration is not the only way to find the location of the cache, but it is definitely the fun way.
• The coordinates for the final ARE listed on this page.

The Trail

The trail that you will follow through Buzzard Ridge Wildlife Area is mowed and follows along the creek that runs through the valley. The trail is short grass and there are several locations where the trail requires you to cross the creek, so waterproof boots are recommended. Expect to get wet and muddy at the crossings. There is very little cell phone reception in this valley so have your gps handy if you use a phone app to geocache. Enjoy your visit to this scenic area. Take and share some pictures. Remove garbage if you find it. Be mindful of hunters and other visitors in the area. If you are looking for butterflies or dragonflies they are here.

Please remember that all caches in the Jackson County Conservation Areas are CITO locations.

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As always, be safe, be courteous, be respectful and have fun.

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