Cache was adopted from Pine Queen on October 31, 2022. The original, regular size ammo box with a handmade leather logbook was missing shortly before the adoption. The replacement container is a peanut butter container.
This is one of our favorite hikes in the area. We hope you enjoy the trail. The cache is available in winter, but depending on the depth of the snow, not necessarily winter friendly. Bring snowshoes for winter caching!
This trail has two sections, one located on the east and one on the west side of State Highway 32. The east section leads across a boardwalk to the top of McCaslin Mountain. It has moderately steep sections, but the view from the top of this quartz rock outcrop is worth the climb. Along the trail to the top, you will pass a quartz crystal deposit with an informational sign which describes how early Indians came here to quarry quartz to create their tools. The west portion of this trail leads to the site of the Carter Fire Lookout Tower. Once used to spot forest fires, all that now remains are the tower footings and roadway. Most fire towers on the Nicolet were erected in the 1930's and have since been discontinued as aerial surveillance took over. The parking area is on the west side of the highway. To get to the east portion of the trail from the parking lot you must cross over State Highway 32. Be cautious for high speed traffic. Trail Length: The trail section to the east to McCaslin Mountain is 6/10 mile. The section to the west to Carter Tower site is 3/4 mile.