What better excuse to get outdoors than to take part in a fun, geocache hunting spree? While geocaching occurs all year long, we witness more participants in the spring, making it an even better reason to explore nature with your friends or family. More often than not, you will reign successful in the addiction geocaching has to offer. To give you some background and tips on geocaching, I have provided a basic but extensive guide below. The easiest question to answer is...
What is it?
Geocaching is simply an outdoor treasure hunt! The only difference is that your GPS coordinates are found online. A common method of obtaining these coordinates is through the Geocaching app that can be downloaded for free on your smartphone. The hidden geocache or a container of multiple sizes is what you are searching for and the app will track how close you are, as well as the description or any hints that may come with the geocache. Inside can be any object from a previous geocacher. Rules are that if you take something from the geocache you must have something of equal or greater value to contribute back into the container. However, the most common thing you will find is a paper and pencil to write down your name and date of completion. And once you are done with the cache, you will place it back where it was originally hidden.
Why should I partake in it?
1. It's free! The app and involvement are completely free of charge. Not to mention, the caches can be within walking distance of your current location making it an easy, convenient form of entertainment.
2. It is everywhere! No exaggeration. Geocaches are scattered across the globe making it an activity you can partake in wherever you go.
3. Geocaching is a fun way to get involved in your community's recreational system! You may just find some more things to do while you are on the hunt.
4. You can hide caches! That is if you become a member of the Geocaching community. If it becomes a passion for you, becoming a member may be worthwhile and you can hide treasures for your friends or family to find.
Some tips to follow to help get you started...
1. Go geocaching in a group. More eyes make for faster and easier finds. And once you reach higher levels of difficulty, you may need as much help as you can get.
2. Try not to rely on the navigation tool too much. It is not always 100% accurate and can distract from the searching experience. You will receive a notification when you are within 40 feet of the geocache, so once you see that, put down your phone and begin exploring!
3. Don't get discouraged and be patient! Remember, not all caches require little effort. Give yourself an appropriate amount of time to travel to the destination as well as time to search for your treasure.
More in depth information on further forms of Geocaching can be found on the website.
