**Cache container changed to small and difficulty level raised to 3.0 after previous cache container was stolen 11/20/20. BYOP** **Cache container changed to micro and difficulty level raised to 2.5 after previous cache container was stolen 1/20/20. BYOP** **Cache container replaced after previous cache and log were destroyed 3/5/22**
This neighborhood wash is one of many near South Mountain’s Pima Canyon trailhead. The wash serves as an important habitat for plants and animals, including palo verde, creosote, javelinas, rattlesnakes, coyotes, and elf owls, who periodically reside in its saguaro “cactus hotels”. One morning in October 2017, a city maintenance crew came by with chain saws, with instructions to clear cut the wash. Apparently a neighbor was concerned that the wash might attract homeless people, and had complained. The crew cleared down the slope before one local hero, who luckily was working at home nearby and went to investigate the unusual noises, got them to stop.
The cache is hidden in one of the tenacious survivors of this (partially prevented) tragedy. As you look for the cache, take note of the small ways the wash is starting to regenerate, and feel free to note any wildlife that you observe in the area. For folks looking to prolong their adventure, check out the Little Free Library down the block and the Pima Canyon trailhead across the street.