Dry Gulch is now a quiet recreation haven for horsemen and hikers. At the Saddlerock Parking area there is water (in season), EV Charging, restroom facilities, and a picnic shelter. A few years ago, however, this area was abuzz with industrial activity.
Dry Gulch was the site of the Cannon Gold Mine from 1985 to 1994. That was the second largest underground gold mine in the U.S.A., and it produced 1.5 million ounces of gold and 2 million ounces of silver. When the underground mine closed, the tunnel was "plugged", and the surrounding area was re-graded and replanted. The main buildings were repurposed to their current use as offices and an equipment maintenance facility for the local school district.
The Cannon Gold Mine Headframe Tower
over looking Wenatchee
To get to this cache you will use the route of hikers on the road going up the valley to and across the tailings dam. This is the largest earthen structure in Washington State. Along the way you can find 6 other caches.
*** Use the trailhead reference coordinates to locate an old mining road that will give you easy access to the cache area.
The cache site was once home to a cache named Dizzy (because of the steep drop-offs along the trail.) As you near the cache you will pass a rusty remnant of machinery that remains on the hill above the canyon. It frames a view of Mission Ridge in the background.
You are looking for a camouflaged metal tea tin. Use caution and seek at your own risk as this is a precarious desert area. Bring water, wear good shoes, and beware of cliffs, snakes, and other possible hazards. Your efforts will be rewarded with some breath taking views. Just for fun, take a photo of yourself with the davit and Mission Ridge behind you.