UPDATE APRIL 2, 2023 - Due to a number of changes to the treehouse interior and hours (thanks for nothing, covid), we have decided to "redo" this cache since it is the only puzzle in For-Mar as of this writing. This cache was originally rated a 3 difficulty and a 2 terrain. Due to the fact that some users need to keep those ratings the same for challenges they may be working on, we're not going to change them. We will tell you though that now, after reworking the puzzle, the actual puzzle part is more like a 1.5 dificulty (You're welcome!), and the final hide location will remain the same.because nothing has changed there.
The provided coordinates will take you to the treehouse inside For-Mar Nature Preserve and Arboretum. Treehouse Masters came here and built this as an educational centerpiece for Formar. You'll need to collect some information from OUTSIDE the treehouse to continue on your journey. Once you have your answers, head to ground zero. NOTE: ForMar does NOT allow cache containers within the boundaries of the preserve, so you will have to drive to get to GZ.
To get the final coordinates for this puzzle, you will have to answer the following questions, do a little math, and then be on your way. When you head toward the treehouse from the parking lot, stop at the "turtle" sign on your right, just before you reach the ramp to the treehouse. You'll need to gather information from the sign, and from the treehouse itself, to calculate the final coordinates.
A = How many letters are in the third word of the sign's title?
B = How many superheroes are pictured on the sign? (Plus 1.)
C = How many "ears" appear outside the main entrance to the treehouse? (On the south facing wall nearest the door hinges.)
X= The treehouse gives you a good vantage point to see the Kearsley Creek what?
Y = According to the information provided on the sign, Treehouse Masters aired this show during season eight and episode ___? (Add 1 to your answer.)
Z = How many doors lead out to the balcony on the east side of the treehouse?
These numbers should serve as your check sum and equal 32. If they don't, you have the wrong answers or have added incorrectly. Once you have verified that your checksum is correct, input your coordinates here and be on your way. N 43° 01.ABC' W 83° 35.XYZ'
Please note that the difficulty rating is based on many things, including but not limited to, such as the time to complete the puzzle, and the time it will take to get to where the final is hidden (since For-Mar does not allow actual geocaching containers on the property, we had to place the final outside the park boundaries). The actual cache container is a small peanut butter jar. Coordinates tend to "bounce" near GZ, so if at first you don't see it, expand your area a bit. If that doesn't work, the hint should help a LOT!
************************************************************************************** This cache is one of many in a series of caches hidden for the 2017 Genesee County Parks Event. Please be aware of any potential muggles while searching for this cache. Trade evenly when possible. Please hide the cache as you found it. Do not leave the cache out in the open! To log a find on this cache, you must actually find it and sign the log. Failure to do so will result in deletion of your online found log. Permission for its placement has been granted by the Genesee County Parks and Recreation Commission. Most Genesee County Parks are open from 8:00 AM until sunset. Park rangers are available 24/7. Dial 911 for emergency assistance from a ranger or to report criminal activity. For contacting rangers regarding non-emergency situations, call 810-736-7100. Remember, many trails are multi-use trails for horses, bike riders, and snowmobiles in the winter. *************************************************************************************** Thanks to GLC for placing this cache!