CONGRATULATIONS TO icezebra11 ON THE FTF!!
This is a several-stage multi-cache, one stage involving the snow fences near the top of Mt. Bethel. The two fences were constructed in the early1970s to reduce the accumulation of snow blowing off the steep slope of Mt. Bethel onto the conspicuous avalanche path directly above Interstate 70. Prior to the construction of these fences, frequent avalanches occurred in this path, occasionally restricting travel on the interstate and sometimes engulfing cars. The fences are quite visible high on Mt. Bethel for eastbound traffic soon after the interstate exits the Eisenhower Tunnel; they are also conspicuous from many of the Loveland Basin ski runs. They are positioned high up on the steep mountain and have been effective at reducing avalanche risk and the frequency of interstate shut-downs.
From the distant vantages of the interstate, the fences do not appear to be particularly large. That impression is incorrect!! The fences are constructed of metal, held rigidly in place by cables attached to large steel stakes deeply embedded in the alpine tundra. Both fences are approximately 15 feet high. The northern fence is 400 feet in length; the southern fence is 500 feet long. Check the 360-degree photography of these fences at http://www.360cities.net/image/nurnaila. The panoramic views shown in the photography are impressive!
If you would like to see these fences up close and personal, get after this multi-cache. One stage en route to the summit of the mountain will actually take you to the fencing, where that stage container is hanging above the ground. Getting there is no easy matter. Begin your hike at the Parking coordinates and hike approximately 2/3 mile to the listed coordinates and follow the stage instructions from that point. From the given coordinates to the final stage near the top of Mt. Bethel involves a distance of less than 1 mile. But the elevation gain for this mile is almost 2,000 feet. This is STEEP, and should not be attempted unless you are comfortable traversing steep terrain, some of it on loose rock. Do NOT try this multi when snow is present unless you are skilled in the use of crampons and in the use of an ice axe for self-arrest purposes in case of a slip. If you lack these skills, delay your hike for this cache until after the snow has melted. Even then the terrain is challenging, especially on your descent.
Be prepared for a backcountry geocaching experience, and go prepared with extra clothing in the event of sudden weather changes. Afternoon electrical storms are common here in alpine settings during the summer, so get an early start so you can descend by noon. Take plenty of water and some snack food, and tell someone where you plan to be.
The summit of Mt. Bethel is at an elevation of 12,704 feet. The mountain was originally named Little Professor Peak but was renamed Mt. Bethel in honor of Ellsworth Bethel, an early leader with the Colorado Mountain Club who pioneered exploration of several peaks in the area. He was a pathologist with the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Have a fun adventure, and be safe!
Additional Waypoints
01777A9 - Stage 2
N/S __ ° __ . ___ W/E ___ ° __ . ___
Second Stage
P0777A9 - Park Here
N 39° 41.510 W 105° 52.765
Park Here
Snow Fences!
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