How to GPS Treasure Hunt

Geocaching is a term for the treasure hunting game that uses Global Positioning System units. Outdoor enthusiasts use the multibillion dollar satellite system orbiting the Earth to find hidden containers called "caches." Geocachers around the world hide logbooks and/or trinkets and list the latitude and longitude "waypoints" on websites such as www.geocaching.com for other treasure hunters to find. Some caches require serious time commitment and even research before a journey. Moderate hiking experience may also be required, but the easier caches can be fun journeys for kids and some are handicap accessible.

Things You'll Need

• GPS receiver
• Access to the Internet
• Hiking attire and equipment, appropriate for on conditions
• Water, snacks
• Extra batteries
• Map
• Cell phone
• Pen or pencil
• Flashlight
• Small emergency kit
• Trinket or coin (optional)

Instructions

Research and Preparation

1. Log on to a treasure hunting website to find caches that interest you. You likely will have to sign up for a free membership, then follow the steps to get started. You can search for caches by state, city, street address or zip code.

2. Choose which cache would be best for you. Each is rated according to difficulty of terrain and location. The lower the rating, the easier the find. If you choose a cache with a high difficulty, you might need to dedicate hours for searching and might need special equipment to reach the cache.

3. Download the coordinates of the cache into your GPS device following the instructions with the website and your unit. You may be required to download software to plug the coordinates into your GPS device.

4. Read all of the instructions provided on the website about your cache of choice. Any descriptions provided by the cache owner will help you find the cache more easily. Also check its location on a virtual map available on the Internet.

5. Check for weather situations that might arise on your journey. Be prepared to spend a couple of hours searching, so bring all of the proper equipment. Be adequately clothed for hiking in mild, moderate or severe conditions. Hiking boots, weather-resistant clothing and a backpack are recommended. Take plenty of snacks and water. Bring an emergency kit and a flashlight just in case.

6. Bring extra batteries for the GPS device and flashlight. Pack a cell phone, map and/or compass in case you get lost or need assistance.

The Hunt

1. Turn the GPS unit on, select the cache you are after and follow the directions until you are close to the final destination. Most searches involve use of a vehicle then setting out on foot.

2. Search the final destination area for a container, allowing a leeway of about 30 feet because the satellite readings of your location may vary.

3. Look around rock piles, tree stumps, under bridges and any other concealed areas. Remember to refer to the cache's description for any hints. The container could be a sealable clear plastic food container, a bucket, an ammunition case or container for film rolls.

4. Open the found cache. Depending on the size of the container, inside will likely be a logbook, pen or pencil, and trinkets. Sign and date the logbook. Feel free to take pictures. Many people place their trinket in the cache and remove one (later logging the item on the website as some people track their items around the globe). Replace the cache or take it with you if it is a travel bug (it will have a metal travel bug tag on it). Use your GPS to return home and make sure to log your find on the website.

Tips & Warnings

• Treasure hunting with a GPS is meant for individuals, small groups and families. However, if you don't know how to navigate or use your GPS properly, you might spend hours walking in circles in the woods. Test your equipment in a location that you know well before heading out on difficult hunts in unfamiliar areas.

• The best way to prepare to geocache is to do research. Visit www.geocaching.com to find out what the sport is about, the different types of caches, geocaching etiquette and how to make your treasure hunt a pleasant experience.

• Remember to put the coordinates of your car or starting point into the GPS device so that you can navigate back.

• There is always a risk to exploring, so prepare for the unexpected. An emergency kit is highly recommended.

• Also, technology is not as reliable as it may seem. Something might go wrong with your GPS unit and/or cell phone, so bring a map and compass to help you navigate back to your car or home.

References

• "Geocaching: Hide and Seek with your GPS" by Erik Sherman
• "The GPS Handbook: A Guide for the Outdoors" by Robert I. Egbert and Joseph E. King
• Joe Ball, photographer and geocacher

Resources

• Geocaching Web site
• The Geocaching Documentary