Introduction
Did you know that there are hidden treasures waiting to be found tucked away in the mountains, forests, waterways, deserts, cities or parks near you? How would you like to have a treasure map that tells you where they are buried? Do you have a place that you would like to share with others, but just need to give them an incentive to get there? The answer for adventure is a new and growing outdoor activity called geocaching. “Geo” for global and “caching” as in finding a hidden treasure.

What is geocaching?
It has been called everything from high-tech hide-and-seek, global scavenger or stash hunting to a modern version of the classic Easter egg hunt. Geocaching is an entertaining adventure game for GPS users. All you need to get started is a GPS unit and an Internet connection. Participating in a cache hunt is a good way to take advantage of the wonderful features and capability of a GPS unit and to get outdoors to see new places.

The basic idea is that individuals and organizations set up caches all over the world and share the locations of these caches on the Internet. GPS users can then use the location coordinates to find the caches. Once found, a cache may provide the visitor with a wide variety of rewards. If the visitor takes something from the cache they are asked to leave something for the cache. For some, the biggest reward is the thrill of the search and the discovery of a place that they have never been.

So what’s in a cache?
A cache can come in many forms, but the first item should always be the logbook. In its simplest form a cache can be just a logbook and nothing else. The logbook contains information from the founder of the cache and notes from the cache’s visitors. A logbook might contain information about nearby attractions, coordinates to other unpublished caches, and even jokes written by visitors. If you get some information from a logbook you should give some back. At the very least you should leave the date and time you visited the cache.

Larger caches typically consist of a waterproof container— like a waterproof box or plastic canister— placed discreetly within the local terrain. The container will include the logbook and any number of more or less valuable items. These items turn the cache into a fun treasure hunt! You never know what the founder or other visitors of the cache may have left for you to enjoy. Remember, if you take something, it’s only fair to leave something in return. Items in a cache could be (but are not limited to): Maps, books, software, hardware, CDs, videos, pictures, money, jewelry, tickets, antiques, tools, games, toys, pens, mementos, trinkets, etc. It is recommended that items in a cache be individually packaged in clear zipped plastic bags to protect them.

Dangerous items like explosives, ammo, drugs and alcohol should never be placed in a cache. Respect the local laws. All ages of people hide and seek caches, so use some thought before placing an item into a cache. Food items are always a bad idea. Animals have better noses than humans, and in some cases caches have been chewed through and destroyed because they contained food items.

How do I get started?
Once you have a GPS unit, you will need to get on the Internet to start finding cache locations or report a cache that you have created. We recommend starting at www.geocaching.com, which lists thousands of caches across the U.S.A. and around the world! At geocaching.com you will also find details and helpful hints on finding and creating the daily growing number of caches.

There are also user forums, cache notes, pictures of some caches, or notes of other people’s experiences finding the cache. Some may be visible from 20 feet away, while others in heavily traveled areas may be buried under some rocks. Caches are rated by difficulty and terrain. You could need climbing gear or special equipment for some, or a comfortable pair of walking or hiking shoes for others. The location and complexity of a cache demonstrates the creator’s skill and creativity.

Finding a cache
After you get the coordinates online and enter them into your GPS, you are ready to get started on your adventure! GARMIN 12-channel units have an accuracy of less than 15 meters (49 ft.), and less than 3 meters (10 ft.) on WAAS-capable models, which will allow you to get close enough to start searching for the cache. Even with the cache coordinates and a GPS unit, there can still be a bit of searching involved.

Since the GPS navigates in a straight line, or “as the crow flies”, you may have terrain obstacles to navigate around. The most direct path is not always the best path! As you head towards the cache coordinates, your unit will display the range and direction (bearing) to the spot. It is also a good idea to take a regular compass with you or get a GARMIN unit with a built-in electronic compass.

Once you get closer, you can start searching for the cache using the online description or optional clues.
When you find the cache, you should simply sign the logbook or take/leave an item. Be sure to return the cache to its original condition and location for the next adventurer.

Since GARMIN units have TracBack® technology, which is like an electronic breadcrumb trail, you can use this feature to retrace your steps back to your starting point. Please be environmentally conscious and try to leave areas as you found them. For detailed instructions and tips on finding and creating a cache, see www.geocaching.com.