This is geocache 1/7 of a series placed by Latino Outdoors and San Antonio River Foundation. A summary of the series can be found here.
IMPORTANT PARKING INSTRUCTIONS AT BOTTOM OF DESCRIPTION
At this location you will find Blue Hole, the spring that feeds the San Antonio River. This geocache takes its name from an indigenous word. Yanaguana, in the language of the Papaya people of the Coahuiltecan Indians, is believed to mean spirit waters. The creation story of many Coahuiltecan groups tells that humanity was birthed from the waters at Blue Hole. Not only is Blue Hole an important spiritual location, but also a natural resource that provided sustenance to indigenous tribes and later Spanish settlers.
Please be courteous as you explore Headwaters Sanctuary. STAY ON ESTABLISHED TRAILS AND FOOT PATHS. Your clue and final cache can be accessed from the footpath.
For you final location you will need to check out the bulletin board: What color is the Great Oak Trail?
- Brown N 29° 28.267 W 098° 28.400
- Yellow N 29° 28.196 W 098° 28.374
- Green N 29° 28.290 W 098° 28.365
Near the final location you will find the Circle of the Springs, a pollinator garden that was inspired by Coahuiltecan art created over 4,000 years ago. Based on archaeological, geological, and astronomical analysis, this rock art depicts 16 springs in Texas as a whole. The garden will have 16 spokes radiating from a central meeting place, one pointing towards the Blue Hole so that the sunrise will be visible over the spoke on the winter solstice. Be sure to walk over and enjoy a little moment in nature while you reflect on this history and meaning of this space.
PARKING INSTRUCTIONS:
PARKING PERMIT IS REQUIRED MONDAY-FRIDAY, and can be obtained by using their guest permit page. Create an account (will need vehicle info), select the date of your visit, and check out for a free permit. UIW uses a vehicle license plate recognition system, so you do not need to print anything. Saturday and Sunday, no parking permit required. Please park in the lots marked by the given parking waypoints.