A Christmas Story

Must be Italian or something...

One of my favorite movies of all time. :) And the *lamp*! Giggle fits every time I see it. Sent to Oregon. Carved with a razor knife and a gouge.

Two Ends of the Spectrum

I offered to carve for an elementary school event which depicts different school subjects. I chose art. And in doing so, carved two different stamps to represent this subject: beginning artist, and expert artist. I will have to admit that the beginning artist stamp was the most fun to do. :)

Top image carved with a razor knife, bottom with a needle. The kid art is on pink stuff, and Lisa is on "Mystery C" material-- very rubbery and difficult to carve, even with a needle.

Hello, Wisconsin!

My trading carver in Wisconsin asked me to carve a creature that was indigenous to Utah. I responded back with, "How about a Mormon Cricket?" She laughed, and said it would be perfect.

 

After I finished carving it, I thought he was a little boring looking. So, I sent her a surprise stamp along with it. Figured Wisconsin would be an appropriate place to send this:

Cricket carved with a razor knife and gouge. "That 70's Show" carved with a razor knife.

Elf Letterboxer

A fun stamp that I carved and sent to South Carolina. Carved with a razor knife and gouge.

Lion Fish

Stamps were needed for an ocean event, and I offered to carve. I asked the organizer to give me a carving challenge, and they said, "How about a lion fish?" By far, this was one of the most difficult stamps I've ever carved. Carved with a razor knife and gouge.

Silent Night

Carved for the "O Letterbox Tree" event in Massachusetts. Carved with a razor knife.

Happy!

When a request was made to carve for a series in Michigan, I was intrigued. She needed a stamp for "happy". I wrote her back and said I had the *perfect* image for her series. This turned out to be one of my all-time favorite stamps. Carved with a razor knife, gouge, and needle.

The Kings

I was asked to contribute to the Musician Series in Oregon. I decided to send the two kings...pop and rock. I like how Elvis turned out, but wasn't quite as happy with Michael Jackson. I'll probably carve him again, but a different portrait. Both carved with a razor knife and needle on the rubbery "Mystery C" material.

Mexican Spotted Owl

Special request stamp, heading to Tennessee! Carved with a razor knife and gouge.

Phoenix Dragon

Special request, sent to Michigan. Carved with a razor knife.

Sock Monkey

Special request, sent to Tennessee. I really loved carving this cute little guy! Carved with a razor knife and a gouge.

Harriet Tubman

Special request stamp, headed to Michigan. Carved with a razor knife.

Roman Coliseum

Sent to Nevada. Special request stamp. Carved with a razor knife.

The Corpse Bride

Sending this set of characters (Victor, Emily aka The Corpse Bride, Bone Jangles, and Scraps) to Idaho to be planted. These were fun to carve! Victor and Scraps carved with a razor knife, Bone Jangles and Emily carved with a razor knife and gouge.

Ozymandias

Date Placed: October 16, 2009
Letterbox: Traditional
Carver: The Wolf Family
Planter: GreenJello
Location: Little Egypt Geologic Site, Garfield, Utah
Status: Active

I met a sentinel from an antique land
Who said: Hidden treasure I protect
Here in the desert. Behind me, in the rock,
A cleft, black and grey rocks conceal.
Eyes, raise up to see
When standing to my right, 200 degrees
When standing to my left, 170 degrees
When in front of me you stand
At 190 degrees, vision is obscured by my presence.
Tall and regal, I am quietly guarding
In the midst of others, waiting.
Seek me out, from the sign
Head 240 degrees, and I will be found in
The lone sand and rocks that stretch far away.

Notes: This letterbox involves a short, easy hike and a small amount of rock scrambling. Above photos are essential to finding the box.

Moki Ruins

Date Placed: October 17, 2009
Letterbox: Traditional
Carver: GreenJello
Planter: GreenJello
Location: Aldrich, Wayne, Utah
Status: Active


When white settlers began moving into the area now known as Capitol Reef National Park, they took notice of old Fremont Native American ruins high in the cliffs above the valley floor. These were small, rocked-in structures in coves up the cliffside, sealed airtight with mud.

Expanding on what little they knew of the cliff-dwelling Anasazi to the south, settlers mistakenly assumed that these must also be cliff homes. But, to fit inside of these "homes", the Natives must have only been 2-3 feet tall! They nicknamed this imagined race of pint-sized Native Americans as "Moki" Indians.

Today, we know these structures to be food storage granaries of the Fremont people.There is an easily accessible and visible granary close to the east entrance of Capitol Reef National Park.

Directions: Driving along Highway 24, there is a pull-off exactly at milepost 90 on the south side of the road. After parking, head back out towards the main road. Up on the rock face to your left will be the granary.

In the area over to the left of where the granary is, there is a pile of boulders. Find the very large flat/layered grey rock to the right of the boulders. Under that rock, near the black boulder, hides the letterbox.

Please poke around with a stick first to dislodge any unwanted creatures from the area and rehide well. Enjoy your visit to Capitol Reef National Park!

The Wild Bunch

Date Placed: October 16, 2009
Letterbox: Traditional
Carver: GreenJello
Planter: GreenJello
Location: Hanksville Cemetery, Hanksville, Wayne, Utah
Status: Active

"Alright, men... the Wild Bunch was here in Hanksville yesterday stocking up on supplies at the General Store. Now I know y'all are familiar with these outlaws-- Butch Cassidy, News Carver, the Tall Texan, Kid Curry, and the Sundance Kid. They're wanted for robbery, and all other manner of unlawful acts. Those of you who wish to join the posse to search for these men in Robber's Roost, meet up at the cemetery at high noon, where you will be sworn in.

"Deputy, I will be needing a small box I have stashed at the cemetery. If you would retrieve it for me just down from the southwest corner of the fence, I would be most grateful.

"Let's go get 'em, boys!

Goblin Valley

Date Placed: October 16, 2009
Letterbox: Traditional
Carver: GreenJello
Planter: GreenJello
Location: Goblin Valley State Park, Emery, Utah
Duration:  Allow 1 hour round trip to where the box is hidden
Status: Active

Goblin Valley State Park is one of Utah's best kept secrets. When you step into the Valley, it is like taking a step into an alien world. The rock formations are some of the strangest you will ever encounter. Early explorers called it "Mushroom Valley" because of the typical shape of the rocks. It is a photographer's paradise, with both sunrise and sunset being excellent times of the day to get amazing photographs. Plan to spend a few hours wandering among the goblins, enjoying their beauty. For those who wish to spend longer in the area, there is a developed campground with water at Goblin Valley.

Directions: From I-70, head to State Route 24 and turn south. Travel on SR24 for 30 miles until you see a sign for Goblin Valley State Park; turn right. Follow this paved road for 6 miles and turn left when you see another sign pointing the way to Goblin Valley. After about another 6 miles, you will arrive at the entrance station to Goblin Valley State Park where you will pay a $7.00 entrance fee. If you'd like, stop at the Visitors Center for some information on the area. Follow the road up to the T intersection; turn left. Continue on the road until you reach the parking area.

From the pavilion with the picnic tables: go to the corner of the railing, closest to the parking area, that looks out over the valley. From there, off in the distance, sight the small greenish dome at 120 degrees. Hike down into the valley to the dome, heading around the left side of it. To the north of the dome, not far away, is the entrance to a cave. Hike on over, and climb in. Use your flashlight and stay to the left as you go deeper into the cave. At the very end, you will reach a soft, sandy floor, with a small opening in the top of the cave.

After exploring the cave, exit it and immediately turn left. Walk a few steps and spot a second cave up 15 feet on your left. Continue walking and straight ahead scramble up the boulders (to your left) spilling out of the large crack. You end up above the first cave and at the back door of the second cave. Find the lower cave's vents and look on the ledge 3 feet above them. Box is behind a rock, out of sight.

Notes: Some rock scrambling is REQUIRED to find this box! If you bring children with you, they will need help to safely traverse the entrance and inside the first two-thirds of the cave. For your safety, bring a flashlight and wear proper footwear (hiking shoes or boots highly recommended!). Please exercise caution and do not take unnecessary risks.

This is desert country! This hike can get extremely hot during the summer months, and very cold during the winter months. Bring adequate water, sunscreen, and wearing a hat is highly recommended in sunny conditions. Don't forget your camera!

Many thanks to Boxer Lover47 for rescuing the box and adding a replacement stamp!

Little Wild Horse

Date Placed: October 15, 2009
Letterbox: Traditional
Carver: GreenJello
Planter: GreenJello
Location: Little Wild Horse Canyon Trailhead, Emery, Utah
Duration:  Allow 2-3 hours round trip to see the best parts of Little Wild Horse
Status: Active

Little Wild Horse Canyon is an amazing slot canyon, arguably one of the best in the world. Located in the San Rafael Swell in south-central Utah, it provides fantastic views and an experience you won't ever forget. If you have the time, you can do the entire 8 mile loop and come back out Bell Canyon (another wonderful slot canyon).

Directions: From I-70, head to State Route 24 and turn south. Travel on SR24 for 30 miles until you see a sign for Goblin Valley State Park; turn right. Follow this paved road for 6 miles and turn left when you see another sign pointing the way to Goblin Valley. After 6 miles, just before you get to the entrance station to Goblin Valley State Park, there is a dirt road to your right with a sign directing you to Wild Horse Mesa and Muddy Creek. Turn right on this dirt road and follow it for 5.3 miles. This road is passable for passenger cars, just be on the lookout for a few large bumps and an occasional patch of sand. There is a parking area for Little Wild Horse and Bell Canyons on the right hand side of the road.

Find the visitor registration box. Standing in front of it, facing the road, notice the amazing tree at 115 degrees. Then, walk to where the parking lot and main road meet. To the right are many large boulders. Look for the largest boulder next to the road. Behind it are two large rocks-- one with red splotches, and one made of layers. What you seek is under the layered rock. Please rehide well with smaller rocks so that it cannot be seen from the road.

Notes: This is desert country! This hike can get extremely hot during the summer months, and very cold during the winter months. Be watchful of the weather-- slot canyons are deadly in flash flood conditions. Bring adequate water, sunscreen, and wearing a hat is highly recommended in sunny conditions. Don't forget your camera!

Swamp Monster

Request for a "nautical themed" stamp from Maine... I took a very liberal interpretation of said theme. It was used for Halloween instead. :) Carved with a needle and gouge on the very rubbery "Mystery C" material.

Anyone See The Sasquatch That Just Walked Through?

This was a fun carve! A gentleman in Virginia is doing a Bigfoot series, and needed a footprint. I found a photo on the internet of plaster casts of Bigfoot prints, and carved those. It was a challenge to make them look non-human. Carved with a razor knife and gouge.

Cincinnati, Ohio

Sent off two stamps to Ohio. I chose to carve Gordon Jump (actor on the tv show "WKRP in Cincinnati") and President William Howard Taft (who was born in Cincinnati). Both carved with a razor knife and needle.

Robert Frost

Heading to Washington. I tried a portrait that wasn't "silhouette" style, and think I prefer the silhouette way. He does look old, though, which was the intent. Carved with a razor knife and a gouge.

St. Louis Zoo

I carved two mini-stamps for a series to be planted in the St. Louis Zoo in Missouri. Both of these stamps are just shy of an inch square. Fun! Both carved with a razor knife and needle.

Jack's Return

Date Placed: October 7, 2009
Letterbox: Traditional
Carver: GreenJello
Planters: GreenJello and Teancum
Location: Cottonwood Heights, Salt Lake, Utah
Status: Active


After the fateful bulldozing of Jack Attack, it would only seem fitting for Jack to return to his previous hauntings.

You seek the haunted ruins just down the road from where swine soak (and maybe get a bit tipsy?). Stand between the two yellow poles, facing away from the ruins. Just ahead and to your left is a very large orange-ish boulder. Jack is hiding behind the boulder.

The Master of Suspense

I sent off a stamp to Nebraska today, to be planted at Hitchcock Park. It seemed such a fitting place for him to hang out.

I also sent a second stamp for an event that's being held there in Nebraska. The theme was "Holiday Horrors", and Trespassing Bunny was my contribution.

Yes, I have a warped sense of humor. Why do you ask? :)

Hitchcock was carved with a razor knife, bunny with a needle.

Johnny Depp

I just carved and sent off two Johnny Depp stamps to a fellow letterboxer in California to be placed in a series in Los Angeles. I loved carving these! I chose "Sweeney Todd" and Sam from "Benny and Joon". Now we will just need to plan a vacation to California to go hunt my stamps! :) Both images carved with a razor knife.

Avast, Me Hearties!

Date Placed: September 19, 2009
Letterbox: Traditional
Carver: GreenJello
Planters: GreenJello and Teancum
Location: Orem, Utah, Utah
Status: Active


Shiver me timbers! Why, it be September 19th, International Talk Like A Pirate Day!

And 't celebrate, me and me mateys are goin' out t' eat. But as seein' that we be stuck in Utah with all ye landlubbers, I be needin' t' find a respectable place t' plunder fer decent victuals, bein' a Pirate 'n all. I do s'pose it's better than mutineers leavin' me t' rot on an Island with no food at all!

If it's treasure ye be seekin', ye may want t' take a gander at me treasure map. When ye are seekin' th' treasure, be all sneaky like and be sure th' adult hands be th' ones a-grabbin' and a-puttin' away. Delicate items be contained within that little hands can break.

Aztec Gold be treasure worth a-huntin'! Arrrr!

Notes: The management of the establishment is aware of the existence of this box.

Boogie Man

Date Placed: September 18, 2009
Letterbox: Traditional
Carver: Moon Spirit
Planters: Moon Spirit, GreenJello and Teancum
Location: The Haunted Forest, American Fork, Utah, Utah
Status: Active


Prepare to be scared! The Haunted Forest is one of Utah's finest haunted "houses". Covering over 200,000 square feet in the middle of a small forest of trees, the Haunted Forest provides a very spooky experience indeed! Here, the Boogie Man awaits your visit.

Find the red fire hydrant in front of the main sign. Take approximately 50 steps to the south. There will be a chain link fence on your left. Boogie Man will be next to the utility pole under a SPOR, waiting for you.

Mmmm... Doughnuts!

Date Placed: August 23, 2009
Letterbox: Traditional
Carver: GreenJello
Planters: GreenJello and Teancum
Location: 2 North Main Street, Kamas, Summit, Utah
Status: Active


The next time you're driving through Kamas, be sure to stop at the Chevron on the corner of Center and Main. There, you will find a delicious array of freshly made doughnuts and treats. A Chevron station may be an odd place to find a bakery, but this particular gas station is famous for excellent doughnuts, particularly their incredible apple fritters. They are about the size of a dinner plate-- a really fluffy dinner plate.

No, I'm not exaggerating. And they're bigger on weekends than weekdays, too!

Directions: Get yourself to Kamas, whichever way suits your fancy. Once there, it's pretty easy to find the Chevron. It's not exactly a huge town. :)

After you pick out your treats, look east behind the gas station. You will see a very large apple tree against the back fence. Head on over, going around to the left side of the tree. Underneath the branches, near to the trunk, you will find a large rock with some smaller rocks in front of it. Move the smaller rocks, and the box will be revealed.

Note: They sell out of their apple fritters very quickly in the mornings, especially on weekends. If you call ahead the morning you're heading up there (435.783.4375‎), they will save one for you.

Jack Attack

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A bulldozer has decided to come and level the nice, large pile of boulders. After much moving of boulders, we could not find Jack. Still can't find Jack. So I carved a new Jack to find! :)
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Date Placed: August 21, 2009
Letterbox: Traditional
Carver: GreenJello
Planters: GreenJello, Teancum, Moon Spirit
Location: Cottonwood Heights, Salt Lake, Utah
Status: Retired

Our daughter has decided to change her trail name, and henceforth, her signature stamp. So we're going to retire her old stamp (one of my very first carves) to a favorite location of hers.

You seek the haunted ruins just down the road from where swine soak (and maybe get a bit tipsy?). Find the gravel trail across the street. Follow it north-ish until you see a large pile of boulders to your left. One roundish rock stands out, more so than the others. Behind it to the left, in a hole under the rocks, a flat rock hides Jack. Hunt at night with flashlights for a spooky experience!

Up, Up And Away! #1

Date Placed: August 16, 2009
Letterbox: Hitchhiker
Carver: GreenJello
Planters: GreenJello and Teancum


A little hot air balloon launched this evening. Maybe it will float by a letterbox near you. :)

Known Stops:
1. Salt Lake City, Utah (started)
2. Grantsville, Utah
3. Hollis, New Hampshire
4. Carlisle, Massachusetts
5. Webster, Massachusetts
6. Sutton, Massachusetts
7. Orlando, Florida

The Spaghetti Bowl

Date Placed: August 15, 2009 (recarved March 2010)
Letterbox: Traditional
Carver: GreenJello
Planters: GreenJello and Teancum
Location: ???, Salt Lake, Utah
Status: Active


Rod hated figuring out which lane went where in the 'Spaghetti Bowl'. Such a perplexing tangle of roads! "Petunia, darling, which freeway do I need to get on again?"

Petunia, who had been sitting on the directions, lifted up her skirt a little to pull the paper out that she'd been covering. "Um... I think it's I-15 North. Wait-- I-80 West." She seemed uncertain as she looked at the paper. "Actually, it seems they merge into one through here."

Rod pulled over in the Home Depot parking lot and looked at the paper. "It's not very clear, is it?" he grumbled.

"Why don't you just go inside and ask for help?" Petunia suggested.

"If I ask for directions at a 'man store'," Rod responded, "they'll think I'm square."

Petunia sighed. "Fine. Then at least pull in to the Conoco across the street. We definitely need to shed a little light on this."

Notes: Please be VERY discreet finding this box. It is in a high traffic area! Do NOT ask employees of the location if they have any knowledge of this box, as they do not know that it is placed there.

Hobo Hitchhiker #1

Date Placed: August 15, 2009
Letterbox: Hitchhiker
Carver: GreenJello
Planters: GreenJello and Teancum


Hobo Hitchhiker #1 has decided to hop a train and see the world. Maybe the two of you will meet someday.

Known Stops:
1. Salt Lake City, Utah (started)
2. Salem, Oregon
3. Springfield, Oregon
4. Carolina Beach, North Carolina
5. Doyle, California

Best of the Bakeries: Flour Girls and Dough Boys

Date Placed: August 12, 2009
Letterbox: Traditional
Carver: GreenJello
Planter: GreenJello
Location: 35 N. Barratt Ave, American Fork, Utah, Utah
Status: Active



Flour Girls and Dough Boys is a wonderful little bakery and cafe, located in American Fork just off Main Street. Everything is made from scratch, with only the best ingredients. Breads, pastries, cookies, sandwiches, soups, salads, cupcakes, brownies... They use real butter for their baked goods and pastries, so the taste is fantastic. (There's no calories in the treats if you're a letterboxer, of course!)

My favorites? So hard to choose.... I'd have to go with the chocolate-chip shortbread cookies, and the creamy tomato basil soup. If you want one of the shortbread cookies, be sure to come earlier in the day. They go fast!

Directions: Take the American Fork Main Street exit (#278) and head east off the exit. Keep driving down Main Street until you reach Barratt Avenue (about 150 West). If you pass the movie theatre, you've gone too far. Turn north on Barratt, and the bakery is just up the road on your left.

To the right of the main entrance outside is a window, with seating in front of it (during the warmer months). At the left edge of the sill, there is a skinny, vertical rock. It can be removed to reveal a micro-box behind. Please be very stealthy in finding and replacing this box!

Hobo Hitchhiker #2

Date Placed: August 8, 2009
Letterbox: Hitchhiker
Carver: GreenJello
Planters: GreenJello and Teancum


I placed my first hitchhiker today. I think he has some wanderlust.

Known Stops:
1. Salt Lake City, Utah (started)
2. Onondagua, New York
3. Leroy, New York
4. West Seneca, New York
5. Brockport, New York
6. Albuquerque, New Mexico

Jordan River Parkway - Utah County

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IMPORTANT! There is a small section of the Jordan River Parkway that is closed, due to construction. It is possible to detour around this area of the Parkway by going through the neighborhoods to bypass the construction zone. At this time, the closed part of the Parkway is between boxes 6 and 7.
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Date Placed: August 7, 2009
Letterbox: Traditional
Carver: GreenJello
Planters: GreenJello and Teancum
Location: Jordan River Parkway, Utah, Utah
Boxes in Series: 10
Status: Active


The Jordan River Parkway begins at Utah Lake, and eventually will stretch to the Great Salt Lake when completed. The Utah County portion of the Parkway begins in Saratoga Springs, and ends in Lehi. This is a series of 10 boxes placed along the Jordan River Parkway in Utah County. You will find them over a nine-mile stretch of paved parkway along the river, so a bike is very highly suggested if you want to find them all in a day. Please note that there is very little shade on this stretch of parkway, so it is best to go in the early morning or late afternoon/evening if the day is going to be hot. Bring plenty of water!

Each box is numbered in the order you will find them. Key words will be contained in the first nine boxes, which you will use to fill in the clue for finding the last box (box 1 has key word 1, box 2 has key word 2, etc.)

Box 1: _______________
Box 2: _______________
Box 3: _______________
Box 4: _______________
Box 5: _______________
Box 6: _______________
Box 7: _______________
Box 8: _______________
Box 9: _______________

Boxes 1 through 9 will contain only stamps and key words. A logbook and large hand-carved stamp will be in the 10th box, for those who persevered and made it through the entire series! :)

With all the boxes-- please be VERY discreet! This is a busy path, especially in the mornings and evenings. Also-- many of the boxes are hidden under wooden benches along the parkway. We have eliminated all the wasp nests we've found underneath (and have sprayed the undersides to discourage future building), but please LOOK before reaching! (If you do find any wasps, please let me know where so we can go take care of them.)

Directions: Take the Lehi Main Street exit (#279) and head west. Continue on through old town Lehi, the roundabout (straight through) until you see Willowcreek Middle School on your right. At the stoplight next to the school (2300 West), turn left. Follow this road, which will turn to the west. Just off the second turn, you will see a parking area on your right. (If you've gone too far, you will pass Inlet Park on your left. Turn around and head back the way you came, looking for the parking area on your left just as Inlet Park ends.) Park your vehicle, unload your bike/dogs/children/spouse/water/sunscreen/insect repellent/letterboxing gear and find your way to the Jordan River Parkway.

A map of this section of the Parkway is available here.


1. Wetlands Park

Known by enthusiasts as the "Model Airplane Park", Wetlands Park has been developed and completed for the most part by local area radio controlled model airplane enthusiasts. Runways have been paved and staging locations constructed. The surrounding flat, treeless landscape makes this an ideal location for this activity.

To find where the model airplane has landed, head up the Jordan River Parkway until you see a bench on your left. You may need to do a partial loop-de-loop as you look under the bench for the stamp.


2. Mosquitoes

The Jordan River is home to many species of creatures, including buzzing ones. One of the most plentiful insects to be found here are our blood-sucking friends, the mosquitoes.

If you're quick, you can slap the mosquitoes out of their hiding place. At the next bench you see, smack those pesky mosquitoes out from underneath and into your logbook. When you're done, continue down the path and head through the first underpass.


3. Bird Habitat

The small side loop in the Jordan Willows subdivision is worth the little extra time to walk through. Many different species of birds make their homes here, as well as those passing through while on their migration routes. Ducks seem to be the most plentiful in this wetlands area year round, though.

Approach quietly, and you should be able to scare up some ducks for yourself! After you go through the first underpass, count two benches. The ducks are quietly nesting underneath the second.


4. Willow Park

Willow Park spans across 50+ acres, offering many amenities for individual, family, or group activities. This park is developed around a large group of aged Willow trees and wide open grassy areas that afford a vast number of options of recreation and relaxation activities. Utah County has also constructed a canoe launch onto the Jordan River thus allowing the more adventurous water enthusiasts quick access to the winding river.

To find a newly planted Willow tree, follow the Parkway as it goes through a second underpass. Soon you will come through the white gates, signaling your entrance into the park. The Parkway morphs into a main road through the park. Continue straight down the road until you see the Parkway heading off to the left. Walk down the parkway until you round the first bend. Look at the base of the tree you're rounding. After you've replanted the willow, continue on the parkway.


5. Wildlife Park

This area of land is dedicated to wetlands use only, and will remain in its pristine condition accessible only by the Parkway running through it. The Wildlife Park is located all along the "U-turn" in the path and ends at the old bridge.

The wetlands along Utah Lake and the Jordan River have been inundated with a non-native species of a common reed known as "phragmites". You can recognize them by their broad leaves and bushy tops.

The Wildlife Park is very full of phragmites. They have invaded just about everywhere you look! If you count two benches from Willow Park, you will find the phragmites have even managed to get a foothold under the bench.


6. Old Lehi Bridge

Viewable at this location is the near-century old trestle bridge spanning the Jordan River. Constructed prior to World War I, this single lane bridge served the farmers and families who lived here and provided quick and necessary access to the grazing lands and canyons on the County's western side. The old bridge was replaced some time ago by a modern structure, but this historic landmark remains.

On hot, sunny summer days, you can watch daring swimmers jump off the bridge and plunge into the water below.

As you approach the bridge, you will see a bench on your left. When people aren't looking, you can jump off the parkway for a quick plunge under the bench to find a box underneath.


7. Jordan River

As you continue along the Parkway, you will soon see a footbridge spanning the river. This is the first of two bridges that golfers use. Continue past the bridge until you see a bench on your right hand side. Sit for awhile and enjoy the beauty of this marvelous river-- the hills, the greenery, the fields, the water and the mountains behind.

Seems that part of the Jordan River managed to flow under the bench you're sitting on.


8. Thanksgiving Point Golf Course

A championship caliber course, the Golf Course at Thanksgiving Point is 7,714 yards long and covers more than 200 acres, making it the largest golf course in the state. Ranked in the top ten new courses in the country by Golf Digest in 1997, it was recently named the number one public golf course in Utah by Golf Digest and one of fifteen "hidden gems" in the country by Links Magazine.

The course spans the Jordan River Parkway, with two access bridges built to ferry golfers from one side to the other.

Looks like a golf ball went missing! You can search for it as you round the bend and see the second footbridge. A bench will be along the parkway before you reach the bridge, waiting for you to look under it for the errant golf ball.


9. Thanksgiving Point Gardens

Most people who have been to the Thanksgiving Point Gardens will tell you the Gardens are the biggest surprise that Thanksgiving Point has to offer. Spread out over fifty five sprawling acres, they represent some of the most vivacious terrain in the West. The individual gardens are organized like the rooms of an immense estate, with thousands of trees, shrubs and grasses serving as living barriers between spaces, creating a sense of wonder as guests pass from "room" to "room." Within the grounds, there are 15 separate themed gardens. Add to that 13 acres of turf grass, a quarter million tulips, seventy varieties of roses, and the largest manmade waterfall in the Western hemisphere, and you can understand how the Gardens keep its staff of twenty-six seasonal gardeners and six full-time staff members busy.

Although precious little of the Gardens can be seen from this vantage point on the Parkway, I hope the small garden I've planted will encourage you to go visit the incredible offerings just over the fence.

To find the miniature garden, continue down the Parkway. You will soon come across an historical marker that talks about the ferry. (Please let me know if it has been re-graffitified so I may clean it off.) After the little information session, you will head around the corner and up a small hill. At the top of the hill, there will be a "No Trespassing" sign. In front of the sign is a S.P.O.R. Move the top rock, and you will discover the hidden garden.


10. Indian Ford Park

Located near a bend in the Jordan River near the Salt Lake County line, Indian Ford Park is still under development. Indian Ford takes its name from historical accounts that claim this narrow area in the Jordan served as a crossing point for local Native American tribes. When developed, Indian Ford will offer picnic tables and other amenities. For now, it serves as a crossing point on the river for the Jordan River Parkway.

Using the words you've collected along the way, fill in the following to find the final box:

Continue heading north on the parkway. When you reach the ____________(9), find the ____________(3) that leads to the ____________(6) and head that way. Immediately turn ____________(5) on the ____________(3) of ____________(7). From the ____________(2), count ____________(1) ____________(8) next to the ____________(3). In front of you and to your ____________(5) is a ____________(4). You will see several ____________(8) next to it. Move away some of the ____________(7), and you will see the box hidden between the two ____________(5) hand side ____________(8).


I hope you enjoy this series of stamps! Please come back and leave a comment to let me know what you thought. :) Happy Letterboxing!

Banana Tree

Date Placed: August 5, 2009
Letterbox: Traditional
Carver: GreenJello
Planter: GreenJello
Location: American Fork Hospital, 170 North 1100 East, American Fork, Utah, Utah
Seasonal: This box is only available Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day
Status: Available

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Only available Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day!

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Nestled in the middle of American Fork Hospital, there is an amazing place known as "The Healing Garden". Flowers, trees, shrubs, rocks, and greenery of all kind await your pleasure. Even a small waterfall soothes the tired soul!

But the most amazing thing about this hidden garden are the banana trees. Banana trees in Utah, you incredulously ask? Yes, I reply. Banana trees. With bananas growing on some of them.

If you want to go see banana trees, American Fork is the place to be.

Directions: Take the American Fork 500 East exit from I-15 (#276). Head towards the mountains off the exit. Take a right on State Street. Take a left on 1100 East. Follow the road until you see the hospital on your right. Enter in the first hospital entrance, on the south side of the hospital. Go east through the parking lots, through the stop sign, where the road will then turn to the north towards the Education Center. Park in the parking lot near the Education Center. After parking, walk towards the hospital. Go down the sloped road, where the dumpsters are. To your right, you will see a sidewalk headed off to the northwest, going through and under the building. Follow that, and you will find yourself in "The Healing Garden".

Find the "Reaching" statue. From there, follow the retaining wall to an uphill slope that leads to a flagstone path. Next to where the path starts, you will see a large black rock. Behind this rock, under the bush, will be the letterbox.

Notes: This area is very busy during lunchtime (11:30-1:30pm). Please be discreet! Bring your own lunch with you (or get something in the next door cafeteria), and sit for awhile.

Fly Fisher

Date Placed: August 2, 2009
Letterbox: Traditional
Carver: GreenJello
Planters: GreenJello and Teancum
Location: Vivian Park, Provo Canyon, Utah, Utah
Status: Active


Provo River is known as one of the best trout fishing rivers in the United States. Brown trout up to two feet long are regularly caught along this river.

Directions: From I-15, take the Orem 800 North exit (#272). Head east off the exit. Follow 800 North until you're almost to the mountains; take the left lane when the road splits to head up Provo Canyon. Follow the signs to Vivian Park (a little less than 6 miles up the canyon).

To locate the fisherman, park and go find the Provo Canyon Parkway. Follow the railroad tracks to the end of the line. Cross the bridge. Immediately to your left will be some large rocks. Move some smaller rocks out from underneath the largest rock, and you will find the box tucked up underneath.

Bridal Veil Falls

Date Placed: August 2, 2009
Letterbox: Traditional
Carver: GreenJello
Planters: GreenJello and Teancum
Location: Bridal Veil Falls, Provo Canyon, Utah, Utah
Status: Active


Bridal Veil Falls is a double waterfall, over 600 total feet in height. It is an easy access waterfall, with no hiking required to enjoy its impressive beauty.

Directions: From I-15, take the Orem 800 North exit (#272). Head east off the exit. Follow 800 North until you're almost to the mountains; take the left lane when the road splits to head up Provo Canyon. Follow the signs to Bridal Veil Falls/Nunn's Park. There is a parking lot just off the exit to your right. You may park there and walk down the trail to the falls, or continue down the road straight ahead for the parking lot at the base of the falls.

After parking, find the bridge that crosses the Provo River (it will be on the southeast side of the parking lot). You will see a sign on a rock that says: "Utah Valley Rotary Club's Legacy Bridge Project". Cross over the bridge and go to the far side of the paved walkway. (If you're taking the walk from the first parking area to get to the falls, walk east through the picnic area, past the falls and the remains of the tram buildings, where you will see the bridge.)

Head east along the path for about 100 steps. Look to your right-- you will see a trail through the trees leading to a wooden pen. At the edge of the pen, there is a boulder. Under the rock edge nearest the gate, move a smaller rock to find the letterbox hidden underneath.

Notes: I highly recommend taking the walk from the first parking area. It is lined by trees and makes for a beautiful short walk.

ReAL Salt Lake

Date Placed: July 27, 2009
Letterbox: Traditional
Carver: GreenJello
Planters: GreenJello and Teancum
Location: Rio Tinto Stadium (9256 S. State St.), Sandy, Salt Lake, Utah
Status: Retired

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Well, after almost two years, the box finally went missing.

Looks like they did some re-landscaping...

I will recarve and replant!

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The ReAL Salt Lake is Utah's Major League Soccer franchise. In 2008, the soccer team moved into their new home: the Rio Tinto Stadium in Sandy. It is a fabulous soccer stadium, with fantastic views of the field from practically every seat.

The current coach of RSL, who was the former team captain, used to be the lead all-time scorer in the MLS. On August 13, 2005, Jason Kreis became the first-ever Major League Soccer player to break the 100 career goals mark.

If you haven't been to a Major League Soccer game, you should take the opportunity to attend one in the newest soccer stadium in the United States. Watching professional soccer is a lot of fun! Be sure to come early and go to Carnival ReAL outside the gates before the game starts.

Directions: From I-15, take the 9000 South exit (#295). Head east off the exit. Turn right on State Street. Head down the road about 3 blocks, and you will see the stadium to your right. Find a place to park.

Look for the main ticket booths. From there, head south around the stadium. You will soon see a landscape block retaining wall on your left. The box is hidden under the bark in back of the stone that is 3 times the jersey number Jason Kreis wore while playing for the RSL.

Scout Falls

Date Placed: July 26, 2009
Letterbox: Traditional
Carver: GreenJello
Planters: GreenJello and Teancum
Location:Timpanogos Trail, Alpine Loop, Utah, Utah
Distance: 3 miles round trip
Status: Active


Scout Falls is located on the first leg of the Timpooneke Trail, which leads to the summit of Mt. Timpanogos. It is a short destination for those who want to get a taste of the Timpanogos wilderness without the long hike to the summit. Beautiful wildflowers and lush green foliage await the hiker on this lovely trail.

Directions: From I-15, take exit 284 (Alpine-Highland exit). Head east from the exit approximately 7.5 miles to the fee station at the mouth of American Fork Canyon (currently $6 to enter the canyon-- National Parks Annual Pass accepted, too). Continue on the road about 4.5 miles, when the road will fork-- stay to the right. Approximately 8 miles from the fee station, you will be turning right at the Timpooneke turnoff. Follow it through the campground until you see the parking area.


Go up the trail to the ranger station; be sure to sign the register so that they can track the number of people that go through the area. Continue down the path towards the Timpanogos summit. Scout Falls is 1.5 miles up this trail, on a small offshoot path to the left. As you hike, you will soon hear the sounds of water; after crossing some small streams, you will come across one larger stream. Instead of taking the switchbacks just after the crossing, continue straight to get to the falls.

When the trail ends at a steep rocky stream to climb up, look back to your right. You will see a flat faced rock with moss on it, under shrubbery. Another smaller, flat rock will be against the big rock. Move the rock in front of the smaller flat rock, and the box will be hidden underneath. (See photo below of hiding spot.) Rock to move is the very bottom one in this photo.



For the more adventurous hiker, you can climb the steep rocky streambed to end up directly under the falls. Exercise caution, though! Footing is slippery when wet, and rocks underfoot are liable to shift underneath your feet.

Notes: Hiking shoes highly recommended. There is water and mud along the trail, and a number of small streams that must be crossed to get to the falls. Know what stinging nettle looks like, and avoid it. :) It is best to hike this in the early morning or evening-- it can get quite hot in the late morning to late afternoon!