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Maria's Plaything Redux Traditional Cache

Hidden : 3/19/2016
Difficulty:
2 out of 5
Terrain:
3.5 out of 5

Size: Size:   regular (regular)

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Geocache Description:

This replaces the original cache (Maria's Plaything) that was archived due to AZ State Land "Decree" that has since been reversed by Gov. Ducey--yeah! So, since it has been archived and can't be reactivated, you can get it again as a new cache.


A high clearance vehicle can easily get within a mile of the cache, which is at 3175 ft. elevation. Then you must bushwhack. More extreme vehicles can get you very close.

 

This cache is fairly well hidden near an impressive sight. The name of this cache was meant to provide a clue. Maria (the letter "i" to be pronounced as an "i", not an "e") was keyed to a song from "Paint Your Wagon." But we were unable to find our target location, so we picked this one. Nevertheless, the name of the cache still applies somewhat. The easiest way to get started is to go up Oracle Rd to Eagle Crest Ranch Blvd (old Sanchez Nursery area) in Catalina. Don't go on Eagle Crest Ranch Blvd, but head west on the dirt road across from it and enter State Land (permit required) at Rail X Ranch. Go down to the power lines and make a left (high clearance required). Continue on the power line road until your GPS says you are less than a mile away. Park your car and then bushwhack. Or, you can drive to it with an ATV or a 4WD that likes a sandy wash. You can also hike to it from Honeybee Canyon. Watch our for snakes. Good luck.

Additional Hints (Decrypt)

Vg vf abg ng n jvaqzvyy, ohg gung jnf gur bevtvany cyna.

Decryption Key

A|B|C|D|E|F|G|H|I|J|K|L|M
-------------------------
N|O|P|Q|R|S|T|U|V|W|X|Y|Z

(letter above equals below, and vice versa)