Note: This multi-cache is spread acros several locations in Pinellas and (barely) Pasco county. If you have questions, feel free to e-mail me before heading out.
This is the easiest of the InfoChallenge series of caches. Pinellas county does not generally have the wide open spaces that allow me to put in the long hikes like the other caches in the series, so this one is here mainly for symmetry's sake or a warm-up.
Remember to use caution when reaching/searching for caches in Florida. Snakes frequently take cover in the same places that geocaches do. Use a stick to probe around instead of your hands, and stay safe out there.
Part I: Cha-Cha at the Old Homestead
The posted coordinates take you to a pier on a lake. To get the coordinates to the first micro-cache, count how many visible vertical pilings support the platform you're standing on. (Ignore the ones on the long boardwalk leading out to the platform, and ignore the ones that are not visible underneath the platform). Also count how many trash cans are on the platform.
A = (number of pilings) x 23 + 4
B = (number of pilings) x 3 + (number of trash cans)
The next coordinates are:
N28°00.AAA
W82°43.0BB
You're looking for a small container hidden under bark at the base of a tree. You can follow the paved trail until you're very close, to avoid bushwacking. Use caution in this area: the insects that live in all the downed trees in this area attract snakes, and I saw several in these woods, including an Eastern Coral Snake (very venomous) and a young Yellow Rat Snake (constrictor). Probe around with a stick, not your hands!
Part II: Hog Island Hike
This location has a state park entrance fee, but also has plenty of other (beach-oriented) recreational facilities besides the cache and is a great place to spend an afternoon with the family. State park passholders get in free, and it's probably one of the best recreation values in Florida.
Do not leave the trail to find this cache! You may need to kneel down and reach for it, but you don't need to stomp on the underbrush or disturb any sea oats.
This park has one of the best beaches in the United States, and also has one of the best nature trails in Pinellas County. I see osprey up-close out here all the time.
Part III: Info's Back Yard
One of my favorite parks around Tarpon Springs, and home to some great moments in local geocaching history.
Make sure you re-hide this one well.
Part IV: Mid-day at the Oasis
You're almost there! Increasingly narrow foot trails lead the way. You don't need to venture more than a pace or two from the trail for this one. Take some time to explore the western end of this park if you've never been here before.
Re-hide the cache well to keep it out of sight of the other folks who visit this area.
