This cache will bring you to the top of San Carlos Falls. This is one of my favorite waterfalls. It’s in a pristine river valley. From Hidden Waterfall the trail descends to the river. It’s a well beaten path with markers. It is a fairly steep grade but not too bad. Please be cautious as this is a boonie stomp. The trail ends at a river bank on your left. You will need to use the rope there to descend to the river. It is about a 20 foot steep slope down to the water. Once you are at the river I am sure will enjoy the spectacular scenery. You need to go downstream to get to the cache.
After enjoying the spectacular view from the top of the waterfall you may want to go down to the large pool at the bottom to swim. The path is to the left of the top of the falls. Take the rope up the trail, and then there is another rope that will take you down the descending trail. (The descending trail is very steep.
For the ultimate hike, you can then go downstream until the river forks. Take the right fork that goes upstream. This will lead you to San Carlos Pool. It is a huge clear water pool with a 12 ft. high ledge on one side that is a great rest spot and also a good spot to dive off into the deep pool.
This cache is located off the access road on Nimitz Hill. The waypoint (N 13° 27.058 E 144° 43.359) is marked at a pump station about halfway to the Korean monument and 25 Miracles. Turn right at this waypoint and follow this road to the end. At the end you will see a path. The path leads directly to the tunnel.
If you have an off road vehicle it will cut at least 15 minutes off coming and going. This is what I would rate as a medium to difficult hike if you go all the way to the bottom of San Carlos Falls and to San Carlos Pool. I recommend you don’t go alone on this trek to the waterfall. Have some teammates to accompany you. Be sure to bring at least a quart of water. The trail is pretty evident for the most part, but there are white and orange tags along the way.