Geocaching is naturally healthy, right?

A typical geocache

A few years back, I did some research on geocaching. I still haven't gotten around to trying this unique hobby, although my son has had some fun with it. Now that I have a little more time, I think this might be a fun and healthy activity for me. Would you like to try it too? If so, you might enjoy this information I published back when I first started looking into geocaching.

What is geocaching?

Geocaching is high tech treasure hunting with modern technology mixed in. Geocaching aficionados locate their treasure with GPS tracking devices. Hunting down treasure troves sounds like a great way for the whole family to explore nature. I've been considering it for years. But what's it all about?

What is a geocaching treasure?

A geocaching treasure is a container located in wilderness areas around the world. Some geocaching treasures are found in state, region or national parks. The geocaching treasure container holds a notebook or logbook and small inexpensive treasures for the finders.

How do I find geocaching treasures?

Go to the official geocaching website and enter your postal code or address to find nearby treasure caches. When vacationing, enter the postal code closest to your vacation spot. This website also sells special GPS devices for geocachers.

What do I do when I find treasure caches?

When you find a geocaching treasure, open the box. Sign your name and share stories of your adventures in the log. Remove a token treasure from the box. Add a treasure to the box for the next person to find.

What type of treasure do I leave in the box?

Treasures added to the the geocaching treasure box should be small tokens of the place you are visiting. Arrowheads and small carved bears or other animals make excellent Colorado treasures. Seashells might be nice for a location near water.

How do I place a treasure of my own?

To originate a geocaching treasure box, place a waterproof container with a logbook and treasures in the public area of your choice. Most are buried or hidden in some way. Post the geographic coordinates of your treasure on the official website.

How do people find my geocaching treasure box?

Fellow geocachers go to the website to find nearby cache locations. They then enter the geographic location of the geocache into their GPS unit. The real treasure is the adventure had while searching.

What are the benefits of geocaching?

Geocaching allows families and individuals to enjoy the great outdoors while searching for “buried treasure”. It sharpens mental and survival skills of adults and children alike. Geocaching provides a healthy alternative to modern sedentary entertainment venues.

What equipment is needed for geocaching?

Equipment for varies with location. For longer treks, be sure to carry a backpack with water, food sunscreen, rain wear, bug repellent and other survival gear. Dependent upon distance, camping gear may be advisable as well.

What rules should I keep in mind when geocaching?

First and foremost, respect the wilderness area you are searching in. Leave no trash and take precaution with any campfires. Know the rules of the area and follow them. Be respectful of fellow enthusiasts as well. Take only one treasure from the box and be sure to leave a treasure in return.