Smack dab in the middle of the Potowmack River, nestled between
Maryland and Virginia, Heaters Island (HI) was settled as early as
the 17th century. Conoy Indians, a Piscataway tribe, migrated from
Southern Maryland and established a village in the 1690's. In 1705,
a smallpox epidemic forced abandonment of the village.
Located adjacent to the C&O Canal at Point of Rocks, Md.,
the Island, over a mile long and nearly a half mile wide at its
widest, is a designated Wildlife Management area. Wildlife,
particularly birds and waterfowl inhabit the Island.
Note dense foliage surrounding the ever-graceful
LpYankeefan. This is typical of the Entire Island.
Having a plateau above river flood stage, the Island possesses
its own unique ecosystem. It is densely foliated, both with tree
and ground coverings. During warm months, nettles comprise much of
the cover, armpit high. You are forewarned. Very little poison ivy
was encountered and no ticks collected. Summer cachers may consider
this an extreme cache (5/5 perhaps). After first hard frost,
navigation and traverse will be much easier.
In season, hunters for deer (there is at least one tree stand
present) and waterfowl are present. Orange Blaze wear is
required.
Please observe all safety precautions when venturing onto the
water. Stay off the river during flood and high water periods.
During other times, the waters to and around the Island are easily
managed with a canoe, kayak or raft. There is one riffle to
navigate near the boat launch; barely a cheap thrill.
The cache and its' much larger host are hidden on the island
plateau. It is as exposed to the elements and light of day as the
casual hunter, bird watcher or extreme geocacher.