This is a different trail you can take from the Palm Springs Tram area. For this cache, you must go to the right at the bottom of the cement path and you also MUST fill out a dayhike permit with the rangers at the station before the official beginning of the trail. The permit is free. The Tram will cost $, please make sure you are out by the last tram down at the end of the day...unless you plan on camping. If you're a little nuts you can also hike to this cache via Idyllwild, but its strenuous and I wouldn't recommend it unless you are a seasoned hiker.
I wanted you to start along this path - make sure you take the right hand trail at the loop sign. It's not too difficult, but it is my hope you go further in and experience more of this amazing wilderness. You will see lodge-pole pines, jeffery pines and white birch trees. If you make the climb to the camp ground, depending on the time of year the skunk weed is huge! (I heard its poisonous to eat - so don't make a salad!)
I'd recommend picking up a $3 map from the tram to help map out the area - its not overly detailed but does give out more information, i.e. mileage and elevation. This cache is maybe a half mile or so from the ranger station. If you go further, you will do it for the hike. Past a certain stream crossing its official 'wilderness' area and there are no caches allowed there. I talked to 2 rangers today to 'ok' this cache hide - since it is still in the State Park area, it is ok. Yay!
It is my hope, before this Summer (2013) to make it to San Jacinto Peak. Today, when I planted this geocache, I almost made Wellman Divide - pooped out a half mile from it. I hope to inspire you to hike up and experience more of the area, it's beautiful! But please make sure to pack a LOT of water and maybe even some sports drinks and snacks for energy. Keep hydrated.
Oh and please use stealth as this is a high muggle hiker area.
Gratz to waashmi for being FTF! :)