This is an earthcache with no physical container. To earn the find, see the logging requirements below.
The coordinates take you to the Lower Macleay Trailhead but can also be completed by hiking down to Balch Creek from the Upper Macleay Trailhead for a longer walk. You do not need to leave the trail or do anything to the creek to log this earthcache. Please observe the posted park hours.
Balch Creek is a dynamic feature of Portland's West Hills. Varying streamflows year round create small changes in the creek through erosion and deposition. Whether erosion or deposition is occurring depends on your location along the creek. It is an excellent location to explore erosion and deposition over a short distance as it descends out of the West Hills.
An area where erosion dominates featuring the creek flowing over bare rock with no gravel present. (DJ Cane)
Locations where erosion is dominant typically feature faster streamflow and steeper slopes. Because erosion is dominant, the water often cascades over bare rock instead of through gravel (or in some isolated places, sand). The amount of erosion actively going on will depend on the streamflow. Periods of high and fast water will erode and carry more material than slow and low water.
A depositional area along Balch Creek featuring gravel, logs, and small boulders. (DJ Cane)
Deposition, by contrast, occurs where the slope of the creek is shallower and the water flows slower. As water slows down, it has less force behind it and thus can't push along as large of material. Very small particles may still be carried here to create hazy water, but sand, gravel, and boulders will be dropped. Thus, the stretches of Balch Creek in a depositional regime will be clogged with gravel rather than sliding over bare rock. These areas are excellent habitat for the small fish and crawdads living in the creek.
LOGGING INSTRUCTIONS:
To claim a find on this geocache, you must visit the four waypoints listed and send me a message via email or the Geocaching messaging service telling me whether that point exhibits a erosional or depositional environment. You may optionally describe the setting of the location, such as sandy, gravel, or bare rock.
Do not include your answers in your log.
Public transit:
- TriMet routes 15, 26, and 77 have bus stops within 500 meters (0.3 mi) of the Lower Macleay Trailhead.