How to Find a Geocache Stash
A geocache is a small box hidden by recreational geocachers. The box contains trinkets and a logbook, and is usually "stashed" in a wooded area off a hiking trail. Geocachers list the GPS locations of their stashes online for other users to download and find the stash. Use the following instructions to locate a geocache stash.
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Things You'll Need
- Computer with Internet access and printer
- Handheld GPS receiver (with optional data port/cable)
- Backpack
- Handheld GPS receiver
- Compass
- Extra batteries
- Items/trinkets to trade
- Pen and scrap paper
- Water
- Snacks
Instructions
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Download Geocache Coordinates
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Pick a nearby geocache location with a simple box on a hiking trail. Geocache stashes list difficulty levels for the trail, so pick an appropriate trail for your skill level.
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Read the logs and reviews by other geocachers to make sure that the cache is still current and relatively easy to find.
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Connect your GPS receiver to your computer using the data cable, or manually enter a location onto your GPS. Save the point.
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Print out the cache page from the website for reference while out on the trail.
Find the Geocache in the Wilderness
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Pack a backpack with your GPS, compass, extra batteries, items to trade in the stash, a pen to sign the stash logbook, and some water and snacks for the trail.
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Drive to the main location of the geocache stash. Find parking nearby, or use the recommended parking from the cache page. Mark your parking location on your GPS to help find your way back to the car.
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Start out on the trail. Use the main "navigation" screen on your GPS receiver and be sure it lists the distance to the next point (your saved geocache location). Use your handheld compass as necessary to supplement the GPS.
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Look off-trail for the cache box when your GPS receiver says you are within 100 feet of the point. Watch the distance to the point on your GPS to make sure you are getting closer.
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Search usual cache locations, such as amongst rocks, bases of trees, and downed brush and logs. Decode the hint on the cache page if you can't find the stash.
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Note the exact hiding location of the box before touching it. Open the box and enjoy your treasure! Leave a small trinket in the box, and list in the log what you took. Leave notes about you, the weather, and how you found the stash box.
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Carefully return the box to its hiding location.
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At home, enter a quick review of the point on the geocaching website where you downloaded the coordinates.
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Tips & Warnings
If you're a beginner, go to an online geocaching website (see Resources). Sign up for a free account.
Avoid going into the wilderness on your own. Take a buddy if possible, or leave word of your planned route and return time with friends, a ranger or your neighbor.
Take precautions when hiking. Wear sturdy, comfortable hiking shoes, durable, soft athletic clothing and sunscreen. Bring plenty of water and food for the hike. Avoid unknown plant life and critters.
