Getting Started with Geocaching
What is Geocaching?
Geocaching is a real-world, outdoor treasure hunting game using GPS-enabled devices. Participants navigate to a specific set of GPS coordinates and then attempt to find the geocache (container) hidden at that location. Some caches are easy, some are hard, some are straightforward, and some are more puzzling. No matter what cache you choose to find, you will most likely find a new and interesting place you've never been before, even in your own city.
Step 1: Download a Geocaching App
Geocaching is free to play, but requires a GPS enabled device to get started. Luckily, most people carry such a device with them everyday - their smartphone. There are 2 different apps that are available. The Official Geocaching App is the app run by Grounds Speak (the creators of Geocaching) which is compatible with Android and Apple iOS. The app is free to download, however, to access all of the features of the app, you must pay a fee. C:Geo is a third party app that has all of the same features of the Official Geocaching App, but it is completely free. The only downside is that it is only compatible on Android devices. If you don't have a smartphone, you still have options. Garmin produces a series of GPS devices specifically tailored for geogachers.
These geocaches will be a container at the given coordinates. The size may vary.
This type uses complex puzzles that need solved to determine the correct coordinates.
This type involves two or more locations, with the final location being a physical container.
These are special geological locations people can visit to learn about a unique feature of the Earth.
This type is another form of treasure hunting that uses clues instead of coordinates.
These are gatherings of local geocachers or geocaching organizations.
Step 2: Preparing for the Find
As of 2017, there are 3 million active geocaches to find around the world with difficulties and terrain ratings ranging from 1 to 5 (5 being the most difficult). There are also 18 different types of caches. The easiest types for beginners are listed here (hover or click for more info). Before starting out, you will need to decide on a geocache to find with the right difficulty level and type for you.
Once you know what kind of cache you are in search of, load up on your gear before heading out to find it.
Step 3: Go Find a Geocache
Follow Your GPS
Follow the arrow on your on-screen device. Once you are standing on top of the location on the map, you will need to search "ground zero" to find the actual container. You may need to look up, down, under, around, or in to find it.
Inside of every cache is a physical logbook. Sometimes its an actual notebook, other times its a small slip of paper with the geocaching logo on it. Whatever the log, you should sign it with the date and your name. You should also sign the digital log (found on whatever application you chose in step 1).
Sign the Logbook
Take Some, Leave Some
Sometimes there are trinkets and treasures inside the cache. Sometimes there are trackables. Feel free to take one or two, but be prepared to leave a few of your own trinkets behind for the next people to find. Regardless of if you exchange treasures or not, always leave no trace behind - replace the cache exactly as you found it.
