Mt. Index Traditional Cache
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Difficulty:
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Terrain:
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Size: 
(small)
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Mt. Index is a spectacular three-summited rock peak located 3 miles south of the Index junction along Hwy 2. The rock forming Mt. Index is principally dark volcanic lava cut by dikes. The base of the mountain has been formed by a large granitic intrusion. The entire region has been altered by heat, making the rock hard and brittle. The shear 3,000' east face of the mountain provides a magnificent backdrop to Lake Serene which is nestled below a huge talus slope and a snow tongue that seldom completely melts due to the shade from the cliffs above.
Unlike some of my previous caches, this one should be an easy find. However, please make note of the terrain rating. There is no official trail to the summit of Mt. Index, and there is Class 3 scrambling involved. To approach the standard route, Take FS Rd. 62 south off of Hwy 2, and drive to its junction with FS Rd. 6220. Drive this road SE to the parking area. The guidebook, 75 Scrambles in Washington, by Peggy Goldman, gives a sketchy description of the route.
Reaching this cache is not for the fainthearted. Cache seekers assume all risks and responsibilities involved in seeking this and any cache.
After finding the cache, please be sure to replace the rock back on top of the container, which will help prevent the cache from being blown away by high winds. Don't forget to search for another cache nearby, and also sign the summit register.
Additional Hints
(Decrypt)
Sebz gur fhzzvg, haqre arnerfg urzybpx fuehof.