This tree is a pioneer tree. These trees were thriving during the primary succession stage of this forest regenerated from farmland. Now, the oak trees have taken over and shaded out these pioneer trees. When you find this cache you will see a picture of what this forest could have looked like during its early successional stages. This tree has reddish-brown bark with long fibrous scales. The branches are often short. Do you know what tree it is?
For your safety, please do not go off of the trail. This geocache was created and is maintained by the Environmental Cooperative at Vassar Barns and the Vassar Farm and Ecological Preserve.