The cache is hidden in an interesting geological feature of the hill, on the back side downhill from trail. Its a wonderful opportunity to take in examples of the unique geology here as described in the nearby Earthcache "Mindego Hill, Whens it Going to Blow?" A particularly nice example of the local rock was found and is now covering the cache from view in its resting spot. Please leave this magical rock for others to also enjoy! Also, during the warm seasons, keep your eyes open for rattlesnakes!
Mindego Hill is named for Juan Mindecoa, an early settler from the Basque Country who established the ranch during the 1860s. He had cattle & poultry, produced some cheese & grew grain crops. When his daughters inherited the ranch following his death in 1898 it totaled 1,100 acres. Long before his arrival, bands of Native American Ohlone people traveling inland from the Coast made routine stops on the property. Purchased by the True family in the 1950s, Mindego Hill Ranch continued cattle operations until the ranch was sold in 2008 to POST/MROSD.
The closest parking is in the new Mindego Gateway Parking lot on Alpine Road. From there, you’ll hike a little over 2 miles to get to the top of the hill (approx. 4.5 miles roundtrip!) For a longer hike, park in the main Russian Ridge parking lot on Alpine/Skyline Blvd. and connect to the Mindego Hill Trail via the Charquin or Ancient Oak Trails.
PLEASE observe Preserve Hours: Open half an hour before sunrise to half an hour after sunset.