Today submitted for review the recently-placed geocache, and knew that because of "cache saturation" rule, it might be a problem, since it is closer than 170 meters to an existing cache, a micro named "Take the High Road". Well, the reviewer didn't find the justification of a very different elevation and terrain sufficient to have it approved anyway, and requested that it be moved farther away from the existing cache by at leat 70 feet. Luckily, I already know of an "alternate" cache location site, and actually it might even be better, since it is very close to where the Black & White 1911 photograph was taken from, so it is very suited to the subject matter.
Here is the cache description:
From the early 1900's to until they were dismantled in 1935, a public wooden stairway of about 1000 steps allowed pedestrians to reach Mount Washington from river level. Called Indian Trail, probably following an existing trail, they started near the Duquesne Incline, went westward, and after a switchback in a steep section, they reached Duquesne Heights at the intersection of Grandview Avenue and Shaler St.
Some of the original wooden posts¹ can still be found. They are about three feet high, and come in pairs, about two feet apart. From bottom to up, they can be found at (1) 40º 26.385N 80º 01.162W, (2) 40º 26.392N 80º 01.230W, (3) 40º 26.396N 80º 01.278W, (4) 40º 26.409N 80º 01.299W, (5) 40º 26.410N 80º 01.332W. Where the steps switch-backed, there are signs of a relatively recent landslide, the area is recognizable by being clear of vegetation, and boulders and debris on the bottom of a steep section where it flattens a bit to a grassy clearing.
There is a tentative idea/plan of placing a couple hundred night sticks along where the steps used to be for an upcoming Light-Up Night to celebrate this now-gone feature that is characteristically Pittsburgh
Terrain around the cache is difficult, and this cache should only be attempted by expert walkers wearing footwear with strong traction. Weather conditions may increase terrain difficulty if terrain is wet
Do NOT cross the rail tracks along Carson Street. You may be tempted in starting the hike from below. Crossing active rail tracks is dangerous and unlawful. You must start your hike from the top of Mount Washington.
Start location is the same for a nearby micro cache, Take thee High Road. There is a grassy clearing off Grandview Avenue where often many wedding photographs are made, and a small trail begins on the western edge of it, at 40º 26.404N 80º 01.338W.
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