Mount Yukla Ridge Cache Traditional Geocache
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Difficulty:
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Terrain:
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Size: 
(small)
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Another mountain cache in a stunning area...This cache rings in at 7094 feet on the summit ridge of Yukla peak in Eagle River valley.
I have had a long standing internal debate over where and when it is appropriate to drop caches and when it is just "peeing on rocks" saying "look where I have been". In fact, I had taken a break from dropping summit caches for quite a while. After talking to several people who had had wonderful experiences doing a few of my higher caches I have decided that I will put a few more up.
I know that there are many caches that I have not yet made it to, but have spent countless hours studying routes. I love the anticipation as much as the adventure. I guess what they say is true; life is a journey not a destination. So, here is. The cache itself is nothing special. It is a small Tupperware container with a few small trade items and a log. I wouldn't expect you to spend much time looking through the cache; you have a mountain to climb.
I don't know how much traffic this cache will get...but here it is. It is the highest in Alaska at this point, the only that rises above 7000 feet. Of all of my summit caches, this one probably also rises above the others in beauty. A motivated cacher will be met with views of some of the most beautiful peaks this country has to offer.
The best route consists of climbing up to twincicle pass and attacking the eastern flank of the mountain. I am willing to assist in route information if you are interested.
You will need some knowledge of glacier travel, mountain navigation, route finding, scrambling, and a strong set of legs.
If you want to enjoy yourself plan for 3 days to climb...I would camp at Twin Falls and make a long day to the summit and camp again. This will save you the 3 hour hike from Eagle River Nature Center after climbing 6500 feet like we did. It was a long day.
I didn't leave a pencil in the cache as it was a last second container selection. If the first to attempt brought one with that would be awesome. If not, I will be back up there before too long.
We didn't summit the day the cache was placed for several reasons. We were only 400 vertical feet from the summit when we turned around. The fog was settling in quickly...and it was nearing our turn around time. When we began to look at the risks/ benefits the decision became obvious. We turned around. Please use caution as this mountain is a large and can be dangerous. Research your trip and have a great time!
Now, who will be the FTF?
Oh, by the way, the cache is covered in a stack of rocks along a 4 foot cleft in the cliff. I tried to make it obvious enough that if you were looking for something you would identify it easily. I tried to choose a snow free area in case somebody tried a winter climb but there are no guarantees.
Additional Hints
(Decrypt)
ebpxcvyr.