The Case for Ice ❄️ EarthCache
Hidden : 4/17/2017
Difficulty:
1.5 out of 5
Terrain:
2.5 out of 5

Size: Size: other (other)

Join now to view geocache location details. It's free!

Watch

How Geocaching Works
Looking for a different adventure?

Please note Use of geocaching.com services is subject to the terms and conditions in our disclaimer.

Geocache Description:


For purposes of logging this cache you must answer the following three questions.
1) At the posted coordinates what is the height and width of the exposed bedrock? Since it is a rock composed of two intermingled but distinguishable components, (typically a granitic rock within a metamorphic host rock), please describe its appearance in detail that would support that theory.
2) Also of significance at this site are the glacial striations present that demonstrate that a glacier passed by. What direction are the scratches mostly running? (This answer will also help you deduce the direction the glacier was moving.)
3) The sign at WP2 also supports glacial ice activity. What is it and what does it provide? Hint: It concerns the ridge and starts with "look"
4) Please take a Mandatory photo of yourself or a personal item near GZ  and either send it to me when you message the answers or attach it to your found log.


This earthcache is located within Beebe Springs Wildlife Area and is placed with permission. As with all WDFW lands a Discover Pass or Vehicle Access Pass is REQUIRED in order to park here.

Note: An earthcache is the magical combination of geocaching and geological discovery. They vary greatly from traditional geocaches in that there is NO PHYSICAL CONTAINER! Once at the Earth Cache site, take in the scenery, the geological marvels or oddities, and read the cache description. You will likely be asked to answer some questions about the site and optionally take a picture. You can email the cache owner or use the Message Center to send answers to the required questions. Please don’t be intimidated about answering the questions. They are not graded and were meant to enrich your visit, open your eyes and provide you with new knowledge and insights about the location. Most importantly have fun!


I can hear you right now exclaiming, "Not another erratic!" and you would be right! What you are staring at is solid bedrock with ice age evidence and not an erratic. Bedrock is the solid rock that exists at some depth below the ground surface. Bedrock is rock "in place", as opposed to material that has been transported from another location by weathering and erosion. The bedrock located here is glacially sculpted migmatite. Migmatite, in geology, is rock composed of a metamorphic (altered) host material that is streaked or veined with granite rock; the name means “mixed rock.” There are striations located on this rock. Glacial striations are scratches or gouges cut into bedrock by glacial abrasion. Most glacial striations were exposed by the retreat of glaciers As well as indicating the direction of flow of the glacial ice, the depth and extent of weathering of the striations may be used to estimate the duration of post-glacial exposure of the rock.

Glaciers erode by abrasion and plucking. Because glacial ice is typically softer than bedrock, it is the rocks that are embedded in the ice that are the effective abrasion agents on the underlying bedrock that result in overall sculpted forms, polish, and striations. You can feel the polished surface of the migmatite. Superimposed on that polished surface are striations that were etched by larger rocks embedded in the base of the glacial ice. The long axes of striations indicate ice movement directions.




Now hike up to WP2 and visit the second interpretive sign where you will find more evidence that demands an icy verdict.

EDUCATIONAL LOGGING REQUIREMENTS

In order to substantiate your visit and comply with the educational requirement for Earth Caches you have to submit your answers to the following questions to the cache developers via their profile:
For purposes of logging this cache you must answer the following three questions.
1) At the posted coordinates what is the height and width of the exposed bedrock? Since it is a rock composed of two intermingled but distinguishable components, (typically a granitic rock within a metamorphic host rock), please describe its appearance in detail that would support that theory.
2) Also of significance at this site are the glacial striations present that demonstrate that a glacier passed by. What direction are the scratches mostly running? (This answer will also help you deduce the direction the glacier was moving.)
3) The sign at WP2 also supports glacial ice activity. What is it and what does it provide? Hint: It concerns the ridge and starts with "look".
4) Please take a Mandatory photo of yourself or a personal item near GZ  and either send it to me when you message the answers or attach it to your found log.


Resources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Migmatite
https://nsidc.org/cryosphere/glaciers/gallery/grooves.html
http://hugefloods.com/Wenatchee-Ice-Age-Floods.html

Additional Hints (Decrypt)

Gur nafjre gb #3 pbapreaf gur evqtr naq fgnegf jvgu "ybbx"

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)


Advertising with Us