#5 Basso’s Liberty Gulch Saloon Traditional Cache

History of Liberty Gulch Saloon

Many years ago, this area was part of the vast Bassoville Empire. Millions of thirsty travelers hiked this trail to the famous, “Liberty Gulch Saloon.” They all wanted one thing--a refreshing pint of the famed “Basso Ale.” Back then, it was just 25c per pint. I helped out, serving customers and sweeping the floor. That’s where I got my love for beer.

Fan of Basso Ale

In recognition of the importance of the saloon, President William Taft named the Basso Liberty Gulch Saloon a “National Landmark, Treasured by all Americans in Perpetuity.” I still remember handing the president a Basso Ale as he clambered out of Marine-1. If you look closely, you can still see the concrete pad where his chopper landed.

Over the years I met a lot of famous people. One time, I served a pint to Douglas McArthur. I still remember him yelling, “I will return!” as he got into his jeep. I think he was a little tipsy.

Back then we had a deal with our patrons: If you hide a geocache, you get a free beer! If they came back with poison oak rash, we gave them another pint out of sympathy, and upped the “Terrain Rating.” It was a real “win-win” situation. If you were a GC volunteer, you also got a free pint (but volunteers were expected to stay out of the poison oak.)

As you hike along this famed Landmark, you may stumble across important relics such as beer bottles or bottle caps. Please leave all artifacts where you found them, as they are protected by federal statute.

I’m not sure the geocaches are still there. Can you check for me? If you find one, I’ll give you a free Basso Ale, and a "selfie" photo of me and President Taft.