Hunters for the Jolly G-Man's "Howling in Buck Hollow" may come
across another letterbox planted on quite a different day.
Surrounded by autumn leaves not completely turned their vibrant fall
colors, and temperatures much warmer than expected for mid-October,
and while enjoying a visit from friend and letterboxer, "RI Wizard",
a letterbox was planted on the Buck Hollow trail. The box was one of
a pair planned for the Buck Hollow/Buck Ridge trail. Unfortunately,
before the second was planted, the Shenandoah forest fire closed off
that section of the Park. Not wanting to send anyone off on a
fruitless hunt, I continued to hold back the clues awaiting an
opportunity to check on the condition of the box. Along comes the
Jolly G-Man on a cold and snowy day and plants one on the Buck Hollow
Trail. So, heed his good advice...post those clues promptly!

Better late than never, here's the clues to another on the Buck
Hollow trail.

We began the hike at the 33.5 mile of the Skyline Drive, at the south
end of the Meadow Spring parking area. The Buck Hollow trail to the
left starts its descent there. We crossed the stream twice before
crossing it again oaver several levels of rocks. At about 2 miles,
the considerably steep descent seemed to level off at a narrow
overlook to the stream. On that flat section of trail, with your
back to the blue-blazed tree, take a heading of 130 to a cluster of
six trees. There you'll find two boulders side by side, meeting each
other at the top. Tucked into the space between, and hidden by
stones on three sides, is the Buck Hollow Letterbox. Stamp in and
replace the stones carefully to protect the hiding spot.

The Buck Hollow/Buck Ridge trail, a 5.6 mile loop, is described in
the Falcon Guide book as moderately strenuous. Hikers not used to
steep climbs might find it a bit more difficult. It's worth every
step though!

Kathy (Ladybug)