Some say Kyle ran through the valley, across the ravine and didn't stop running until he got to the ocean. Others believe Kyle was cursed and became the lonely bigfoot of the valley stalking all who dare enter his territory. Yet some others say that the valley is haunted by Kyle and that the howling of the wind is really just the cry of his snow ghost on a cold winters night.
This cache (and several others) are located in Cottage Grove Ravine park. The park consists of 515 acres of hills and dramatic, heavily wooded ravines with occasional clearings of old field and prairie. This varied topography and landscape types mean that its slopes receive different sun exposures. This creates an unusual variety of vegetation and habitats. Look for grouse, ermine, cottontail rabbits, deer and a number of bird species, including the pileated woodpecker. If you have never been here before the cacher could literally spend the entire day caching here.
This particular cache is located near a dry creek which is not dry in the spring. You might describe it as marshy. or wet. or muddy. There are ticks. There are thornbrush and stickers and sandburs everywhere you turn around. If you have a k9 companion, make sure you check for ticks and and sand burs before leaving. Chances are you and your pup both will have a few. The clearing for the electric power high towers that are in this park are the real source for wind and noise at night as a wind tunnel effect is created and the wind does howl on stormy days if you happen to visit then.
There is ample parking in the ravine park parking lot, city hall, on any of the streets nearby (there are a couple of spots posted no parking though so watch the signs), and there are several walking paths that approach this area from every direction. This park is also on cross country ski trails and snow mobile trails, and this cache can be found in the coldest most frigid winter for those up to it, but you need a CC ski pass from the county.
Details about the park and how to get a CC ski pass can be found here for those who want more info: http://www.co.washington.mn.us/index.aspx?NID=501
The cache container itself is very unique. It really is named 'Kyle' and you will not win a staring contest with it. Check the 'neck' of the container for the Cache log and bring your own pen as this container does not have room for more.