This Cache is named after the inhabitants of this area of 200 years ago in the nearby Society of Shakers, now known as Sonyea. The Cache is located in an area rich with the history of the industrious human race and its endeavors with commerce. As you drive along the narrow dirt road on your way to the parking point for this cache, you will see the remnants of locks and wide-waters of the Genesee Valley Canal that was built here in the 1850s and abandoned only 20 or 30 years later when the railroads became the dominant source of transportation. On your hike into the cache you will also notice where the railroad used portions of the towpath of the canal for locating its tracks although the rails have been removed several years ago. New York State is now going to be using this area for the "Greenway Trail" although this part is currently unimproved. I think New York State has saved the improvements for a later date because of the possible costs involved with constructing bridges and shoring up the creek bank in order to contain the Keshequa Creek that flows through this same area. Once the Greenway is completed, there will be a non-stop trail from Rochester to Olean.
Although it is possible to jump, hop and skip your way to this cache to avoid wet feet during the summer months, be prepared to "GET WET". Bring an extra set of shoes, socks and pants or clothing (if you have an accident). This isn't so bad in the warmer weather; in fact it is probably going to be a prerequisite since the urge to "GET WET" is going to dominate the thoughts of any youngster that may be traveling with you or anyone young at heart! There is a nice swimming hole and falls near where the cache is stored (HINT). You may even want to bring a fishing pole with you since there are a few nice fishin' holes along the way. Keep your eyes open for wildlife. I have seen deer, beaver, squirrel, ducks, geese and even heard turkey on my trips to the spot. This is going to be a very picturesque hike, so enjoy!
I have spoken with both adjacent owners to the New York State property and both don't mind hikers through the area, as long as you are courteous and don't leave your mark. In fact, if you pick up some trash on your way out, it may help relations with the locals all the more. We picked up several beer cans and bottles while we were here.
O.K. now to the Cache; it is a retired .50 cal. ammo can filled to the brim with an assortment of nice goodies inside. It is stored in the base of a hollow tree better than 100 feet off of the old railroad bed but in an obvious spot once you are close. Please sign the log book and feel free to take a picture of yourself with the enclosed camera; take a prize - leave a prize of equal value, and log your find on www.geocaching.com so I can tell when the camera is about ready to be replaced. There are several footpaths (4 wheeler paths) to follow and sometimes even walking the creek is enjoyable especially if you want to get close to the cliffs. The hike to and from the cache is relatively flat; the only difficult part is navigating rocks in the creek bed and a few slight banks to traverse up and down. Very limited parking is at the end of the dead end Kapprell Road and if someone is already there do not block him or her in and do not block the access drive to the left. Be courteous! (HINT) I highly recommend approaching the cache from Kapprell Road which starts at County Route 30 near the north end of the Hamlet of Tuscarora! My deciphered message below will give you the Lat / Long of the entrance to Kapprell Road (if you really need it).
5/7/2001
NOTE!! This cache now contains a hitch-hiker Furby named "Snow White". I would like to request that if anyone picks her up to let me know at www.wycogeocache.com or here and to place her in another cache (maybe a new one you are creating).
Have fun and let me know what you think of my spot!