Pikes Peak Marathon Traditional Geocache
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Size: 
(small)
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Pikes Peak Marathon
America's Ultimate Challenge. This cache is placed on the race course for the Pikes Peak Marathon, run on the Barr Trail every August. The marathon starts in Manitou Springs, CO and runs 13 miles up and 13 miles back down the Barr Trail for a total of 26.2 miles of both agony and joy. This last section before the turnaround is especially difficult because of the 16 sets of switchbacks called the 16 Golden Stairs, the many step-ups on each of those switchbacks, and the lack of oxygen. There are 2 ways to access this cache. Hike the 13 miles up from the trailhead in Manitou Springs or hike the difficult and steep .4miles down from the summit. I have included a couple of pictures of the cache and it's placement. You will understand why this is needed when you get there. These pictures were taken during the marathon and show several of the runners struggling to the top. The cache is a waterbottle with a logbook placed underneath a large boulder about 30 ft directly west and uphill of the sign indicating the beginning of the 16 golden stairs. Be sure to bring a pen and sign the log. Enjoy yourself - the scenery can't be beat - and think of those who run in this legendary race every August.
Please do me a favor if you go to this cache. Please make sure that it is returned to its position very securely so wind, rainfall, snow, or ice do not move it. I think it would be best to make sure several larger rocks are placed in front of it. Thanks, and enjoy the view!
I have run the Pikes Peak Marathon 5 times with a personal best of 6:39 for the 26.2 mile round trip. I hope to return many more times!
Additional Hints
(Decrypt)
Haqre n ebpx. Qhu! Ubarfgyl, frr gur cubgbf sbe n yvggyr uryc...vg jvyy fnir lbh n yvggyr bkltra!