GC1X8GB Thunder Mountain - Park Hours Only! (Traditional Cache) in Missouri, United States created by Fried Okra

This cache has been archived.

FRIED OKRA: This one just keeps getting muggled. Bye Bye

GC1X8GB ▼

A cache by Fried Okra Message this owner

Hidden : 8/14/2009

Difficulty:

Terrain:

Size: Size: regular (regular)

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Geocache Description:

FTF PRIZE IS VALUED AT $44

This cache is located along the Thunder Mountain Park Nature Trail. Placed by permission of Dave - property manager.

You do NOT need to leave the trail to grab the cache.

THIS CACHE IS ONLY AVAILABLE DURING PARK HOURS

Winter 9 am to 4 pm
Spring & Fall 9 am to 5 pm
Summer 9 am to 6 pm

Winding along the northern slopes of Thunder Mountain lies one of the Ozarks' truly unique outdoor experiences - Thunder Mountain Trail. This one half mile walking path starts just above Lake of the Ozarks and proceeds past picturesque rock bluffs and ancient maple and cedar trees. Spectacular lake views are common as are the opportunities to see the abundant wildlife. Many lucky hikers have spotted turkey, deer, red fox, and even the bald eagle.

One of the oldest area homesteads is encountered at a shady rest stop along the trail. The sturdy Cullen Home was constructed of hand hewn logs but unfortunately was consumed in a fire at the turn of the century. All that remains is a massive stone fireplace as a reminder of pioneer craftsmanship. After refreshing yourself at the homesite travel a little farther and walk up to the the entrance of Bear Cave. According to local story this cavern received its name from the short nosed brown bears that used it as a home and were hunted there in early days. Recent excavation of the cave has turned up interesting fossils of animals that date back to the Ice Age such as the snowshoe hare. In order to protect the ecosystem of Bear Cave it is not open to the general public but is available for group tours on a limited basis.

By Car: Two miles North of Camdenton, Missouri on State Highway number Five.
By Boat: On the 10 1/2 mile marker of the Big Niangua arm of Lake of the Ozarks.

No admission fee is required for the trail.