Conrad is a multi-cache with a theme, the theme for Conrad is a
cache for boys, please try and bring trade items that would appeal
to boys. There is a stage and a final for Conrad, allow an hour or
more for the entire walk, this would not include any search time.
If you search for the stage without the clue it will be more
difficult.
There are now warning signs near each end of the access trail
for Conrad. The bridge at the east end is blocked by the sign, the
trail itself is washed out by an active spring. I have added a half
star to the terrain, these trails are more difficult this year. I
checked Conrad this evening and had no problems other than very
muddy feet.
There are several elevation changes but good pathways will take
you near Conrad, remember to generally keep going forward.
The area of this cache contains steep elevation changes (riverine
canyons) but no bushwhacking or hill sliding is required,
good pathways lead very near to the area of the cache.
The stage was selected so that the search area is clearly
defined by a feature. The cache starts on asphalt trails but
traverses cowtrails and unpaved foot trails, bike access is not
recommended. This cache is a great place for imagining cowboys and
hidden hideaways, you might even see evidence of an old railroad.
If the ground is wet this area has a clay soil that can get very
slippery so use caution in your search. A local hazard is the
prickly pear cactus, if you take your dog to this cache make
certain that you keep your dog on the pathways, the prickly pear
contains a very nasty thorn. The best time to visit this cache
would be in the summer and during the day. There are washrooms
available at this location but they are not accessible during the
winter months. This cache may become inaccessible in the winter if
there is substantial snow cover. You may see coyotes or porcupines
when seeking this cache. You may encounter black widow spiders or
rattlesnakes when walking anywhere around Medicine Hat, they are
not common but they are not unusual. When you are on the prairie
around the Gas City you may also encounter badgers. Badgers and
porcupines represent a considerable hazard to dogs, keep this in
mind if your dog is off leash.
When you locate Conrad there really is no good place to sit and
sign the log, you can be surprised here so a lookout or two might
be a good idea to warn you of other hikers, this will help protect
the cache from inadvertant discovery. Please let others know how
you feel about this cache by making an entry in the online log here
on geocaching.com. The cache is an ammo can.
Please replace the stage in the same place it was found. It is
very important to replace the cache in the same place making sure
it is well hidden, this will ensure success for the next searcher.
The parking waypoint has a great barbeque area, there are firepits
and canoes/paddleboats are available during the summer.
Parking Waypoint : N50 02.935 W110 46.690