Do you like the outdoors, enjoy discovering new places, and think a little treasure hunt sounds intriguing? If you said yes, then Geocaching might be for you!
What is Geocaching?
For those unfamiliar with Geocaching, it is a “treasure” hunt activity where participants attempt to locate hidden “caches”. Caches can be either physical (a container of some sort) or virtual. Virtual caches are often located in areas where placing a physical container is not allowed, like National Parks, on private property of others, etc. These virtual caches will often require the finder to answer a question about the location or possibly take a picture in order to claim finding the cache.
How to get started and find a cache . . .
If you have a smartphone, start by downloading the Geocaching app and create a username or “handle”. Ours is Fire And Ice (chosen long ago).
For those without a smartphone, you will need set up your username via the Geocaching website. You will also need a handheld GPS device. (This is how we started “back in the old days”. lol)
Posted on the Geocaching app or the website, you will find maps, GPS coordinates and clues leading to the caches’ locations. Look around the area you’re interested in hunting and choose a cache to target for your first find. You’ll want to check the difficulty and terrain ratings of the caches you are considering going after so those variables don’t come as a surprise once you’re out there.
Next, drive, bike, or walk to general location of the cache. Once you’re fairly nearby, use your phone app or your GPS device to zero in on the cache. When you’re getting very close, start looking around for convenient hiding places. Keep in mind, cache hiders can get downright devious sometimes! 😉 Most physical caches will be a container of some sort with a log book inside. (There’s usually a pen too, but bringing one with you is a good idea.)
You found it! What now?
Once you find the cache (IF you find it!), sign the log book. In addition to the log book, many caches that are large enough, will contain a few small trinkets. If you like, you can make a trade! That’s called “leave something – take something”. If you want to trade, be sure to bring some sort of small trinket with you. An interesting coin, a small toy, a keychain – things of that sort make good trading items. Or you can simply sign the log book with the date and your geocaching handle. Lastly, put the cache back exactly where you found it. Don’t forget to officially log your find either via the app or the website. That’s it! Congratulations! You found your first cache!
Geocaching, and it’s sister, Letterboxing, are a super fun way to explore an area.  Seeking the hidden treasure boxes often takes you to previously unfamiliar locations and oftentimes exposes participants to interesting local history or lore. It’s a wonderful (and kind of addicting), family-friendly activity! We’ve been enjoying it for well over a decade. 🙂