Although the cache has been on this ridge for 5 years as of May 2011, I have received complaints about the trail condition descriptions from two geobashers. Even though a 4 terrain difficulty should be enough warning, I am making the following declarations so folks who should not do it do not try. The climb described below is not an official ASP trail. Do not expect to find any trail maintenance. Do expect to find deteriorating trail conditions as the two track described in the original NGS data sheet is reclaimed by the forest. I have modified the following description where I think it is appropriate.
This cache replaces ASP Highpoint Reset. The new cache is much farther from the benchmark than the original cache but finding the benchmark first is still a good idea. The cache is located in a little visited portion of Allegany State Park. According to the NGS datasheet, the benchmark is the highest point in the park at N42° 03.865’ W078° 49.663. My GPS showed 2384 feet. In 1935 this area was completely cut, with a fine view from the hilltop. As late as 1967 it was still accessible by vehicle and there was a view from the top. It is now totally enclosed in tall trees and there is only a view in early spring and late fall when the leaves are down.
Access is from Bay State Rd. You can park your car at the bridge where Bay State Brook crosses under Bay State Rd. at N42° 04.520’ and W078° 48.562’. Start back along the trail next to Bay State Creek and you will see a track road that is quite dim in places. At one time you could follow this road to the top of the ridge. As of May 2011 it is only distinct for about a third of the way. You can expect to work around deadfall and other obstacles for the second half of the climb to the top. It is about 3/4 of a mile to the top of the ridge and another 3/4 mile along the ridge line to the cache. The trail along the ridge is marked with occasional pieces of old pink, orange and yellow surveyors tape and is quite plain from animal travel. However, this is not an official trail. It is not maintained and you cannot depend on it to get you to and from the cache. You will need to review a map before you climb and know how to use your GPS. Do not forget your compass! A review of the Red House USGS Quadrangle map would be excellent preparation. You can get turned around up there. Bug repellant is always a good idea
The supply in the box of laminated award certificate of completion is depleted. However, if you contact me via Geocaching.com I will be happy to send you one. Please reference the date of your log.
NO FOOD, SMELLY STUFF OR LIQUIDS PLEASE. They will attract animals.
FEE NOTICE – From Memorial Day to Labor Day (when the beaches are open) there is a $7.00 vehicle use permit charged to enter the park. The access control points generally operate from 10:00AM to 5:00PM. The rest of the year the vehicle use permit is $6.00 and is only charged on Saturday and Sunday.
Have fun and enjoy one of my favorite places in the world. This cache carries Allegany State Park Permit ALL207.
