Hike (or bike) your way to the top of Forest Peak, the highest point in Oregon State University's Dunn Forest. Peakbagger indicates the top at an elevation of 1904 feet, while the Benton County GIS map with topography indicates a high point of about 1914 feet. The cache is located at a slightly lower elevation on an adjacent 40 acre parcel of BLM land. Stop by the benchmark at the reference point to find the combination to the cache's lock. If it is clear you should have nice views to the southwest to Mary's Peak and beyond!
Two of the shorter routes that you can choose from include hiking from the Dunn Forest 100 Gate (a little more than 7 miles and 1,600 foot elevation gain) or the Starker Forest Soap Creek Tree Farm with a free yearly permit available from their offices. I prefer this second option since there are three logging road options, as well as secondary trails, between the parking and peak which can be combined as a loop route (about 6 miles and 1,400' elevation gain). On a clear day you will also likely have views of Mt. Jefferson and the Three Sisters along your route. Other longer options are available from Dunn Forest gates should you choose a longer adventure. From wherever you start your adventure will most certainly be uphill! Hopefully your decent will be enjoyable after signing the log and getting that nice smilie face icon on your map!
A tradition of visitors to Forest Peak is adding holiday decorations to one of the trees located on the BLM parcel. The cache contains additional small ornaments that can be placed so that it is always Christmas at Forest Peak. Consider bringing your own decorations, but please make sure that they are eco-friendly (no tinsel, lights, items that are not weather resistant, etcetera). The code to the lock securing the cache which will hopefully prevent it from being muggled (but are there really muggles up here?) is the year the benchmark at the reference point was placed [and included in the hint]. I have also included a picture of the benchmark on the cache page. To open (and re-secure) the lock align the four didgit code up with the "Master" logo. I hope you enjoy your hike, and of course the downhill return to your selected trailhead!
OSU Research Forest closures and current conditions can be foud at: https://cf.forestry.oregonstate.edu/harvest-webmap