This is a “survival gear themed” cache. Please trade appropriately.
You can get within about a mile of this cache on an ATV and within ¼ mile on a motorcycle. Either way – if you wear riding boots, bring some hiking shoes to change into. The last ¼ mile to the cache is off-trail and steep. No rock climbing is required to get to the cache, though. Oh yeah – bring plenty of water! Devil’s Hole tends to be a lot warmer than the surrounding areas.
This has long been one of my favorite places. Although it’s quite different since The Big Fire, it still is a beautiful place. You will see some spectacular views in this area. Expect to spend some time exploring when you get there, as there are many “hidden treasures” (besides the cache).
If you’re not familiar with the Danskin trail system, you can get a pretty good trail map from the Boise National Forest office for $5. Be aware though, that their trail difficulty
ratings may not agree with what you would expect.
We started our ride today at the Bender Creek trailhead. We followed trail 300, 317, and 321, which are all designated ATV trails and are rated as “easiest”. While trail 300 would fit that rating – IMO, the rest of that route will be very slow going for anyone on a motorcycle with less than intermediate riding skills. Going this way makes for a fun ride, but be aware that it covers about 20 miles one-way, and most of it at low speeds.
The easiest way in is from Danskin road. Take jeep road 192, just past the Case Creek trailhead. Turn right on trail 317 and follow your nose.
It is important to know where you are and be aware of your riding skills. The last mile or so from trail 317 to the cache is on a designated motorcycle trail that is rated “most difficult” (trail 331). If you come in instead from trail 340 near Danskin Mountain, you will ride trail 331 for a good 2.5 to 3 miles. As I mentioned, trail 331 is rated “most difficult”. The stretch of trail between the cache and trail 340 to the south definitely fits that description!
This is rugged and unforgiving country! Don’t attempt this cache if you are not an experienced rider, or not capable of a ¼ mile uphill hike. Bring appropriate emergency and survival gear. Watch the weather – rainstorms make some of these trails hazardous to impossible. Your cellphone may not work here.
Cache container is an ammocan, with these original contents:
Survival whistle/compass/matchholder
Keychain/compass
2 d-ring clips
Cats Eyes LED light
2 chemical lightsticks
Water purification tablets
Water flask
First-aid kit
Emergency blanket
Tick remover
Plastic mirror
Mosquito head-net
2 emergency rain ponchos
Parachute cord
Log book