What is Geocaching and Why Will Your Family Love It?

What is geocaching? Think of it as an outdoor treasure hunt that uses GPS coordinates as your treasure map. You can do it anywhere, at any time, and all you need is a smartphone or GPS. 

Getting Started

The first step is to go to Geocaching.com and register for a free profile. You can then download the Geocaching app on your smartphone for free from Google Play or iTunes’ App Store. All you have to do is fire up the app, enter your location, and you'll be shown a number of caches nearby. A cache is a hidden container. Some are large—like the size of an ammunition box—and some are teeny tiny (and much harder to find as a result!). There are 2 million caches around the world, so you're always likely to find some in your vicinity. 

There are many different types of caches, as well as a ranking system (one to five stars) to rate the cache by difficulty and terrain. A one-star cache typically signifies one that is simple to get to and easy to find, while a five-star cache could require special equipment, a long hike or some risk, like climbing a tree.

What You Need

Once you’ve located a couple caches, get ready to hit the trail and search for treasure.

Before you go, assemble a simple caching kit: 

• A pen/pencil
• Paper
• Your GPS or smartphone
• Some swag for trading (optional)

Finding your first cache

Once you're on the trail with the app in hand, you'll be given the rough coordinates of the cache.

Caches are often well hidden—it's not as easy as showing up and finding the cache right away. Geocaching.com typically has an entry with a few clues help you find the cache.

If you're really stuck, you can try looking in the photos section to see if there are any hints about where it's located.

As you explore, it's important to respect any private property, as well as the natural environment. Geocachers do as much as they can to minimize their impact. It's also important that you stay safe as you explore, and make sure that you don't do anything that would endanger others. 

Photography by Andrea Kodýdková © 123RF.com 

No matter what size the cache is, there will always be a logbook for you to sign. There could also be a pen/pencil, but it's always best to come prepared.

Depending on the size of the cache, there may also be some swag for swapping. Swag varies widely, but often includes pins, unusual coins, small toys or books. When swag-swapping there is only one rule: if you take something from the cache, please leave something of equal or greater value. 

You then log your find on geocaching.com and head off to find your next cache!

Why You'll Love Geocaching

1. It can happen any time, any where. No need to follow a schedule! And whether you're hunting for a cache in your own city or down a remote forest trail, you may find one anywhere.

2. Geocaching gets you outside and exploring! You may discover a new part of your city or town, or you may decide to explore somewhere totally new.

3. Geocaching combines exploration, treasure-hunting and adventure into one glorious family-friendly game. It's a fun way to spend a few hours outside, or a great layer to add to your next family walk or bike ride.