Geocaching is a fabulous outdoor activity for the whole family to enjoy. As it involves using technology while being out in the open air, it combines the best of both worlds. And, it's free!
The concept is basically a treasure hunt where you search for hidden caches, of which there are various forms. We’ve always tended to locate the traditional caches which can be anything from tiny metal tubes containing a paper log, to lunch box sized tins holding various trinkets (geoswag), right up to large containers. Some have been relatively easy to locate, others have taken some hunting - but that’s all part of the fun.
As many caches have been hidden by people in areas of interest to them, you can see some wonderful sights as you geocache and it’s amazing how far you walk without realising it.
We've found some of the best geocaching trails have been at National Trust sites, where many locations have GPS devices for you to use during your hunt, if you don't wish to use your phone.
Getting started.
Beginning your geocache hunt takes a little preparation, so this is easiest done before you set off from home:
- You’ll need to set up a Geocaching account by downloading the Geocaching App or visiting www.geocaching.com on your phone.
- Search for nearby areas where caches are hidden. When you find a trail you like the look of, save it to your phone.
- Walk or drive to your chosen start point, using your phone to navigate to the correct location (obviously, you may need to park your car in a nearby car park and walk the rest of the way).
- Navigate to the exact point by following the arrows on your phone. As you near the cache site, you will need to look around as many are well hidden. We’ve found them in tree trunks, hanging on chains from bridges, magnetically stuck to metal posts and even by pulling out a tree branch!
Hint: If you’re struggling to find a certain cache, read the comments allocated to that particular one on the website as this could give you some clues. People will also state on here if they have been unable to find the cache (DNF - Did Not Find), which could indicate that it’s no longer there. It’s important you log online as it lets the owner of the cache know they need to check whether it has indeed gone missing (otherwise known as ‘been muggled'), has been moved or is in a place which is too hard to find.
What to take with you.
- Pencil or pen to write your details on the log sheet (tweezers are also handy to pull logs out if they're placed in small tubes)
- Small trinkets to swap - eg, bouncy ball, child’s medal, small toy figure. No food items.
- Fully charged phone or other device to use as a GPS receiver
- Items you would normally take on a walk - food, drinks, maps, first aid kit etc
Hint: We recommend you wear proper walking shoes as some caches may be located off the beaten track (or the kids may decide to walk through the water!)
Found It!
When you find a cache, expect much shouting and clambering to open it. Write your details and the date you found the cache on the paper log, you should find inside. Then, if it the cache contains geoswag, feel free to swap something with a trinket of your own.
Very importantly, close everything up again and hide the cache in the exact place you found it, so others can experience the thrill of finding it too.
You can also upload photos of the cache and type any comments about your find on the online log. This helps others know what they are looking for and indicates to the owner that the cache is still there and everything is fine with it. Geocache owners have put much thought and effort in to setting up the geocache trail for you to enjoy, so it’s important that you reciprocate by commenting on your find.
We’ve sometimes found a cache with a full or wet log, so commenting on this lets the owner know the cache needs some maintenance.
Once you’ve logged your details and re-hidden the cache, click the arrow on your GPS device to begin searching for the next one.
Have fun!
Are you fans of geocaching? Do you have a favourite trail near you? We'd love to hear your experiences.
