The subtitle for this cache could have been "A Tale of Two Trails,"
with apologies to Chuck Dickens! Stages one is easily accessible
from an old paved road/trail, but as you go towards stage three
things get interesting! There will be some moderate climbing
required, but nothing that would necessitate climbing gear or
bouldering skills (I have neither). Be careful, and be patient -
look around and you will find reasonably easy (for an adult in
fairly good shape) ways to access all areas! Park at N41° 14.136
W075° 48.625. Summer hours are 8 am to 8 pm. During the rest of the
year the gate is always locked, but you may park along Route 115 S
and hike in, which will add about 4/10 mile to your hike, each way.
Follow the old paved road to the first set of coordinates. Watch
for hikers, bikers, and swimmers, and keep an eye on your GeoDogs
as there is some broken glass in a few spots. Stages 1 - 2 are
small Altoids gum containers with the coordinates for the next
stage inside.
When you get close to stages 1 & 2, enjoy the view, but be
careful of the edge - no stage is near a cliff edge!
Depending on the time of year, weather conditions, and time of day,
a flashlight will be helpful, or perhaps necessary. Please
replace all containers in their original locations and hide as well
or better than you found them!
The name of this cache comes from the old reading program I
remember from school - RIF (Reading Is Fundamental). Reading has
always been a favorite hobby of mine, and this is one way to share
my love of books! The original cache contents are all books that
have been important to me throughout my life for one reason or
another. Books are individually packed in doubled-up Ziploc bags
with desiccant packets. (Please mention in your log if the
desiccant packets are turning pinkish so I know to replace
them!)
If you are so inclined, trade a book that is important to you
for one in the cache. If one of the books in the cache really grabs
your attention - take it, even if you don't have a book for trade!
The important thing is to read! Whether you trade or not, please
at least mention a book or books that meant something to you in the
logbook and on the cache page. I imagine that over time this
theme will slowly be replaced by general trade items, but who
knows!
Lastly, this is my first hide, so constructive criticism is
welcome and will be greatly appreciated!
