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Over The Top Letterbox Hybrid

Difficulty:
2 out of 5
Terrain:
3 out of 5

Size: Size:   regular (regular)

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Geocache Description:

To find "Over The Top" you will need to get to the ridgeline at the saddle (aim for the lowest portion of the ridgeline) above McKelligon Canyon. The best (easiest, most traveled) approach is from McKelligon Canyon, although it can be approached from the westside. The hike from McKelligon Canyon is less than a 1/2 mile one way, with an approximate elevation change of 600 feet.

“Over The Top” is a Letterbox Hybrid (a combination Letterbox and Traditional Cache).  An “Over The Top” stamp, ink pad and stamp-book are available to those who letterbox.  There is also a logbook for everyone. These items are not trade items, please treat the stamp, inkpad and stamp-book with care.

As is the case with most Franklin Mountains State Park hikes, you are bound to run into loose, rocky terrain, some moderate altitude/elevation changes (steep hills) and some extreme desert flora (sharp, prickly and potentially dangerous cactus).  Please understand that this hike is not for everyone, and you should know your limitations before setting out.  Bring ample water, especially during the heat of the summer, and maybe a snack.  A walking stick or trekking pole is recommended for those who think they could benefit from the added stability, especially on the way down.  Always carry a cell phone for emergencies.

If you are interested in approaching from the westside, check this link for a potential route(s) and some waypoints.  This in no way negates your responsibility to pay the appropriate park fee.  I recommend that all Texas hikers purchase the Texas Parks Pass for trouble free hiking in Franklin Mountains State Park and beyond.  Call (521) 389-8900 for more information.  Always enter the Franklin Mountains State Park from Texas Parks & Wildlife established trailheads.

The cache container is a small ammo can.  Be careful on your approach, as there are several ways to approach the site, and some are obviously better than others.  There is no inherent danger in getting to the cache, as there are all sorts of paths around.  Just be cognizant of normal Franklin Mountains hiking hazards, and be aware of your footing while looking at your GPS.  The cache container is/was originally filled with all sorts of cool swag and a travel bug. FTF may consider taking a "SONIC COMMUNITY FIRST" value card - face value is $5, but worth approximately $20 in free food.  Please take care to avoid muggles, especially on weekends.  Please replace the container as you found it (or better).  If there are any problems with the cache, please let me know, and I will fix it in short order…

Enjoy!

A permit was granted by Texas State Parks and Wildlife for this cache, and it is on file at Franklin Mountain State Park Headquarters.

Additional Hints (Decrypt)

Terng irvj bs Pbebanqb Pbhagel Pyho naq zbfg bs Ry Cnfb'f jrfgfvqr... Tenl ebpxf naq n pbhcyr bs fbgbyf ng gur pnpur fvgr, ohg V thrff gung vfa'g zhpu uryc... Ybbx sbe gur HCE... Rawbl!

Decryption Key

A|B|C|D|E|F|G|H|I|J|K|L|M
-------------------------
N|O|P|Q|R|S|T|U|V|W|X|Y|Z

(letter above equals below, and vice versa)