Old Mission Peninsula EarthCache
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Old Mission Peninsula Earthcache
This Earthcache is accessible via a scenic overlook along Michigan Highway 37. There is ample parking to enjoy the spectacular views!
Glacial History.
The Great Lakes as we know them today formed at the end of the last glacial period (Wisconsin glaciation) around 10,000 - 12,000 years ago, as retreating ice sheets carved basins into the land and they became filled with meltwater. Because of the uneven nature of glacier erosion, some higher land areas became islands or other geological features including peninsulas.
Old Mission Peninsula.
A peninsula is a piece of land that is bordered by water on three sides but connected to mainland. The surrounding water is usually understood to belong to a single contiguous body.
The Old Mission Peninsula extends northward from Traverse City into the Grand Traverse Bay of Lake Michigan, ending at Old Mission Point. The peninsula is 19 miles (31 km) long by 3 miles (5 km) wide at its widest point. The climate on the peninsula is moderated by the surrounding waters, helping to prevent frost during the growing season. The peninsula has extensive cherry orchards and vineyards.
As the glaciers melted, they left behind extensive deposits of till (a mixture of gravel, sand, silt, and clay). The thickness of these deposits varies across the peninsula. The topography of the till consists of rolling plains and drumlins. Drumlins are smooth, glacially formed hills, elongated and aligned parallel to the direction of glacier movement. Drumlins are commonly found in fields; similar forms are found grouped together. The drumlins were probably caused by a re-advance of glacial ice for a relatively short period of time.
In order to log this Earthcache, you must email team wiji (see profile for email) the answers to the following questions:
1. A peninsula is a piece of land that is bordered by water on three sides. At the posted coordinates, look around in all directions. How many bodies of water can you see from this vantage point?
2. You are standing on the highest point (a drumlin!?) of the peninsula. Take an elevation reading with your GPSr. Knowing that the mean elevation of the shoreline is 580 feet, how many feet above the water are you?
3. OPTIONAL - Take a photo of your GPSr or yourself/team with a spectacular view in the background. You may include this photo in your log.
++ Congratulations to kirtlandii on the FTF!! ++
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