Never heard of geocaching? You are not in the minority.
Geocaching is, however, fast gaining popularity all around the
world. So what exactly is this geocaching thing all about?
Geocaching is an outdoor treasure hunting type sport in which the
participants use a global positioning system (GPS) device to
navigate their way around and hide and seek containers called
caches. It has been likened to a high tech Easter egg hunt.
Someone hides a bunch of usually inexpensive collectables in a
container (the cache) and then they post the longitude and
latitude coordinates on the Internet so that others can search
for it.
The treasure hunting aspect makes it perfect for families who have children old enough to go hiking. Wait until you see the looks on their faces when you find your first geocache!
A normal cache consists of a waterproof container that holds both
a log book and prizes. If you are skilled enough to find one of
these caches and you take something from it, it is generally
thought that you will leave something in return and sign the log
book. Some caches are only big enough to hold a rolled up log
book. Other caches are big enough to hold prizes and gifts for
anyone that stumbles upon it.
In order to play, the minimum requirements, in terms of
equipment, are that you own a GPS receiver. Global positioning
satellites send signals and the receivers are used to figure out
where on the earth you are located. Even though you will have a
GPS receiver, it is recommended that you take a compass with you
on your geocaching adventure. In addition you will want a cache
pack or vest to hold all of your gadgets. Depending upon the
length of your quest, you may also want to bring water and
possibly energy bars, food, a first aid kit and your cellular
phone. Don't forget your camera!!!
The beauty of the game is that the GPS does not take you to the
direct spot where the cache is hidden. Usually the GPS leads you
to an approximate spot and the cache could be hidden up to 20
feet away from your final destination. Finding it from there is
up to you. Generally, the cache is well hidden so that the last
part of the hunt really is like a treasure hunt!
Some say the thrill of the chase is not what really attracts them
to this game though. The real fun is in discovering all the park
lands and natural beauty that the world has to offer. While some
hunts are global, they do not have to be. You will be surprised
at the beauty that you might find in your own state, region or
even just your neighborhood. It is a great game for all and
families, kids and adventurous types are sure to love geocaching.
A popular spot to find out about geocaches in your area is
http://www.geocaching.com/.
Their theme is "The sport where You are the search engine."
