Math Branch Traditional Cache
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Difficulty:
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Terrain:
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Size: 
(regular)
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This cache is located along Math Branch, a small stream located in the Swan Creek Non-Motorized area within the Mark Twain National Forest. You will have two options for heading out onto these trails, but you should expect a long hike no matter which of the two you start from. The trails out here are for non-motorized use only. Please only seek this cache by horseback, bike, or on foot.
You have two locations to begin your journey. I have include the coordinates of both on the cache page.
Option 1: Hwy UU Trailhead. This is where we launched our journey to initially place these caches. If you start from here, you will not have to cross Swan Creek, which flows pretty much year round. It also is prone to flash flooding, and cannot be crossed. If that is the case, then this starting location would be your best option. From here, it is approximately a 2.5 mile hike down to the cache, which would create at least a 5 mile total hike. Take trail 6107 (Tin Top Trail) to trail 6101 (Math Branch Trail). When you get to 6101, take it and it will take you all the way to very near the cache.
Option 2: Bar K Wrangler Camp Trailhead. You will have to cross Swan Creek. Use discretion and do not cross if you feel it is unsafe. Most of the time it is less than knee deep. From here you will have multiple options/trails to get you to GZ. We did not take this way to place the cache, so I don't have much info, other than stay on the trails and try to head north whenever possible. It looks like you will probably have about the same 2.5 miles to hike to the cache from this spot.
No matter which way you come, the trail 6101 (Math Branch Trail) crosses Math Branch multiple times. The crossing spots were dry at the time of cache placement, but after rains and during wet months you may have to get your feet wet to cross this small stream.
I suggest printing out a map and bringing it along with you. I found a good one at: www.downhillbikes.biz/images/SwanCreek_000.pdf
Make sure to bring lots of water for your hike. Also, I have been told that this area does have a small black bear population. The biggest animal we seen while placing the cache was a squirrel, but do remain aware.
***Placed with permission from the US Forest Service, Ava/Cassville Ranger District. Much thanks to them for allowing the placement of this cache!***
Additional Hints
(Decrypt)
Haqre fbzr ebpxf