VSP Smith Mountain Lake Blooming Adventure Traditional Geocache
VSP Smith Mountain Lake Blooming Adventure
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Difficulty:
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Terrain:
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Size: 
(regular)
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NOTE: This cache was part of the 2012 Virginia State Parks Blooming Adventure. This series ended on December 15, 2012. However, the park has taken over this cache so it is still active. Rewards are no longer available for this cache, but we will be launching a new series in March 2013. For upcoming information on the new series go to: www.virginiaoutdoors.com.
This traditional cache, also known as "Stick that in your Pipe…" will take you on a short hike down Beechwood Trail. Trail maps are available at the Visitor Center & the Discovery Center. Smith Mountain Lake State Park is comprised of a unique “hill-top” eco-system. This was created in the 1960’s when the AEP Smith Mountain Lake Dam Project was completed thereby flooding the valley low lands and leaving the exposed hill tops open to further development. Because SML State Park sits at an average of 900ft above sea level, we are home to a variety of flora that may only be expected to be found at higher mountainous elevations. Our forest floors are covered in Running Cedar, Hemlock trees have been identified, Pink Lady Slippers bloom April thru June and of course, Indian Pipe. This cache is named for the unique yet odd-looking plant, Indian Pipe that blooms on the stream banks just west of the cache location. Indian Pipe is a pale translucent plant since it lacks chlorophyll and is often mistaken for a member of the fungus family. It obtains food from other plants yet it produces nectar and pollen like other flowers and is fertilized by visiting insects. The hike to this cache is family friendly. Younger cachers in the group may need to take a break now & then. This one might have you searching for a bit! As always, REMEMBER - clear an area BEFORE sticking your hand in! When caching in any Virginia State Park; please stay on marked trails when possible, park in designated parking areas ONLY, always practice CITO & most of all - take time to enjoy & explore your natural and historical surroundings! Original contents: log book, pen, VA State Park carabineer, VA State Park pencil and Virginia State Park Wildflower Cards.
Additional Hints
(Decrypt)
Ab arrq gb trg jrg