Geocaching is a fun way to incorporate a GPS device into a game of hide-and-seek. People throughout the United States, and around the world, hide a waterproof box of miscellaneous items. Often this includes a small notebook and disposable camera. To find the items, the exact coordinates of the items are posted on a geocaching website. The game for participants is to use a portable GPS device to find their way to the exact coordinates and identify and find the cache. Any portable GPS device can be used for geocaching such as…
- A sport GPS watch,
- Other types of GPS running watches,
- Or, any portable GPS device such as a phone.
Rules of Geocaching
Geocaching is an informal activity. However, when you use your GPS running watches or other portable GPS systems, observe some common rules of courtesy.
- Don’t disrupt the environment as you follow whatever trail leads you to the cache.
- Don’t hide your own caches in national parks or on private property.
- There’s no cost to join. Just search online for “geocaching” and find a website.
Tips
Geocaching can be fun for the entire family. You can make it a family tradition or even a goal to find geocaches around the world. While out geocaching, follow some of these tips to help you out on your adventure.
- Use your senses to feel around.
- Look for items that seem out of place.
- Geocache boxes are often disguised.
- Don’t bury anything—you shouldn’t have to dig.
- Search high and low.
- If you’re having trouble, many geocache websites provide hints.
- Check the latest activity—many people will leave comments about their experiences.
- Be patient!
- Bring a pen—geocache boxes will contain a notebook so you can leave a note.
What are Trackables?
Trackables are various objects that move around from geocache to geocache. Each trackable has a unique code registered on the geocaching website to look at where it has been and its goal. Here are some tips on trackables.
- Move a trackable to its new location within two weeks.
- If a trackable is missing, contact the trackable’s owner or log a note on the trackables page.
- If a trackable isn’t listed, wait 24 hours or contact the last geocacher that logged it.
Now that you have some basic knowledge of geocaching, go out and explore. Be sure to gear up for your geocaching experience at your local Sun & Ski Sports. There, you can get the right gear for the terrain you’ll encounter such as hiking boots, hiking backpacks, and water bottles. Or, check out our blog. You can start your journey towards other adventures such as the beginner’s guide to getting your first bike.