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Warning: Treacherous terrain! Slippery creek crossings, hidden valleys, and dense bushwhacking ahead. Attempt only at night.
Park Hours
This geocache is located on the Riparian Trail, with park hours from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Do not attempt this cache during the day—it’s designed for nighttime adventure only. You must complete your search and leave the park before it closes at 9:00 PM.
As the sun sets, the Riparian Trail becomes a world of darkness and mystery. This cache is not for the faint of heart. You’ll cross a wild creek, follow a reflector trail into the forest, and navigate treacherous terrain riddled with hidden valleys. The Keeper, an eerie spirit bound to the land, is said to watch over the trail and its travelers.
The posted coordinates mark the starting point of the reflector trail. From there, your journey will test your courage and your wits.
Note: This cache is nearly impossible to complete during the day, as reflectors are only visible at night. Bring a bright flashlight, extra batteries, and a compass.
Your Mission
Hike approximately 0.3 miles along the Riparian Trail until you reach a steep creek crossing. The rocks are slick, and the water flows fast—proceed cautiously. On the far side of the creek, dense honeysuckle marks the start of the reflector trail.
From here, bushwhack through wild terrain as you follow the glowing reflectors deeper into the forest. Be wary—hidden valleys and drop-offs lie in wait to catch the unwary. Take your time, stay alert, and move slowly.
Stage 1: The Reflector Trail
Your journey truly begins with the first glowing reflector, hidden among the honeysuckle. The markers will guide you through steep hills and uneven ground, drawing you deeper into the Keeper’s domain. As you progress, the land becomes more treacherous, and the Keeper’s presence more palpable.
The Graveyard: Final Cache
The reflectors lead to the graveyard, an eerie and foreboding resting place. Local legends say the Keeper once guarded this graveyard, and his spirit still lingers. Some claim to see shadowy figures near the stones, while others hear faint whispers carried by the wind.
Search the area carefully—the final cache is hidden near the graves. Within 15 feet of the cache, you’ll find bats etched with a code that unlocks the Keeper’s secret.
The Haunted Canyon: Optional Extra
For the daring, additional reflectors lead away from the graveyard into the Haunted Canyon. This extra path has no container—only steep valleys, strange echoes, and an overwhelming sense that something is watching you. Few venture here… and fewer still return unchanged.
The Legend of The Keeper
Long ago, the Keeper was the cemetery’s watchman. His life was devoted to guarding the graves and ensuring no harm came to the departed. But one stormy night, the Keeper vanished, leaving only his lantern flickering at the creek’s edge.
Locals believe his spirit still roams the forest, fiercely protecting the land. Some have seen his shadow near the creek crossing, while others have heard his anguished cries echoing through the canyon. If you feel a sudden chill or catch a glimpse of movement just beyond your flashlight’s beam… that’s the Keeper. He’s watching. Always.
Important Reminders
• Clothing: Wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty or torn—this adventure is tough on gear.
• Creek Crossing: Slippery rocks and fast-moving water make this hazardous. Proceed carefully.
• Hidden Valleys: Sudden drop-offs can appear without warning. Stay alert.
• Dense Brush: Be prepared for thick honeysuckle and bushwhacking.
• Nighttime Only: This cache is designed for nighttime. Reflectors are not visible during the day.
• Park Hours: The park closes at 9:00 PM. Ensure you complete your adventure and exit before closing.
Placed With Permission
This geocache was placed with permission. Thank you to the park staff for allowing this adventure.
Happy caching!
Stay safe!
—STLN St. Louis Navigator
FTF honor goes to Forest-Ghost