The cave consists of "Berea sandstone" that was formed about 350
million years ago during what geologists refer to as the
"Mississipian period". Back then, northern Ohio was at the
northeastern end of a large, shallow, inland ocean (giving a whole
new meaning to the term "North Coast"!) Ancient rivers flowing into
the ocean deposited sand (grains of quartz) along its edges in
large quantities. Over time, these layers of sand were compressed
together and cemented into solid rock called Berea sandstone, an
extremely durable rock that can be seen in many parts of northern
Ohio today.
Deer Lick Cave shows clear evidence of this ancient ocean. The
sandstone shows signs of "cross bedding" (inclined horizontal
layers) that occurred as layers of sand were deposited on the floor
of the ocean delta. Figure 2 shows that shifting currents
deposited these layers at varying angles. Figure 3 shows the presence of salt at the
surface of the rock. The salt precipitated out of the ocean as
it evaporated.
The Deer Lick Cave area also provides graphic evidence of the
durability of Berea sandstone. You can clearly see how the
sandstone has survived, while other minerals, like shale and
limestone, that filled the remainder of this valley have been
eroded away.
To claim credit for this cache, you must
answer the following questions:
- At the overlook you will find a marker (coordinates at the top
of this listing). According to this marker, what type of cave is
Deer Lick Cave?
- Also according to the marker, what is the 2-step process by
which the salt that precipitated out of the ocean appears at the
surface of the cave today?
- If you are physically able to negotiate the stairs, walk down
to the cave entrance (at N41°18.320 W081°36.624) and explore
the cave. While standing inside the cave, look to the South. You
will see a huge boulder separated from the cave by a narrow gap.
How many trees are growing in this gap? (Count full-grown trees
only. Don't include any saplings that might be present).
Do not post the answers in your log entry! Instead,
geo-mail them to me within 3 days of logging your visit. (If you
don't, Earthcaching rules require me to delete your log!) While
you're here, take the time to hike the many gorgeous trails in this area, but please stay on
the designated trails at all times. Also feel free to post
pictures of the cave and the surrounding rock formations, trees
and wildlife (just don't post any pictures that will give away
the answers).
Thanks to the Cleveland Metroparks for supporting geocaching and
permitting this cache.
REFERENCES:
- "Hike to the Cave" fact sheet (courtesy of Cleveland Metroparks
Brecksville Nature Center)
- Roadside Geology of Ohio (First printing) by Mark J.
Camp. (This is an excellent book and a must-have for Ohio
Earthcachers!)
- Peterson Field Guides Geology Eastern North America by
David C. Roberts. (A useful reference for Earthcachers in the
Eastern U.S. and Canada, with excellent photography and
illustrations.)