Arroyo Micro Traditional Geocache

In Pasadena, from the intersection of California and either Fair Oaks or Orange Grove, head west on California, down the hill until it ends at Arroyo Blvd. Head north on Arroyo .2 mile until you see the sign on the left for "Lower Arroyo Park." Turn left here, down the hill, and park in the lot past the casting pond.

This time, we'll head into the southern section of the park, so once you've parked walk back to the casting pond - if you're lucky there'll actually be someone practicing their fly-fishing technique - and take the path that heads south from the end of the pond. Enjoy the recently-restored stream and wetland area, noting the native and naturalized plant species which serve as habitat for a variety of bird, insect and small mammals. On the side of the canyon to your left you'll continually see small sections of beautifully-built stone wall, the only remnants of what used to be the incredible Busch Gardens, the estate of Adolphus Busch which Pasadena decided to subdivide in the '30s. But that's a whole other story... and probably a whole other cache!

Your GPS signal will definitely waver in and out, but by the time you get to the general area of the cache it should be okay. The best hint we can give you - other than the spoiler, which we suggest you hold off on checking as long as you can - is that the cache is in something, and under something... and not at ground level. It's in a Hide-a-Key... but is no longer affixed to anything metal.

The cache actually contains a logbook and pencil, as well as some very small items. If you want to trade, think about coins, stamps, fortunes, etc. But, more importantly...

Enjoy the stroll! After you've found the cache, you can continue south for a half-mile or so, down to South Pasadena's stables (kids love to check-out the horses), or head back to the pond. Either way, we hope you enjoy your day!

NOTE: Don't trust the TOPOZONE map on this one!