Transcript
Page 1: Geocaching Basics - Finding a Cache

Geocaching – Getting Started: Finding a Cache by Jessica “Cool Librarian” Langlois 09-16-07

Go to www.geocaching.com Create an account. It’s FREE! Creating an account “first thing” will allow you to access all of the site’s features while you are learning the ropes.

After creating an account, you’ll want to start looking for caches to find. Cool. But first, check into the “Getting Started” area, where you’ll find some good basic information and links.

Page 2: Geocaching Basics - Finding a Cache

And, if you need help with something specific, visit the forums where experienced cachers are available to help.

On to finding a cache! Click on the “Hide & Seek a Cache” button…

Page 3: Geocaching Basics - Finding a Cache

…and check out all of your options! I recommend using the zip code search first, or perhaps your address.

The result is a list of all the caches closest to your zip (or address). The list features the name of the cache (which is also a link to the cache page), the cache type (traditional, puzzle, etc), size (regular, mini, micro, large), difficulty and terrain ratings, date hidden, and the date of the last time it was found.

Page 4: Geocaching Basics - Finding a Cache

Choose a cache from the list that looks interesting. Watch the difficulty and terrain ratings – new cachers should stick with lower numbers until you have a few finds under your belt. Click on the link to the cache page. REMEMBER, You MUST be LOGGED-IN in order to see the cache details – most importantly, the COORDINATES!

The

Page 5: Geocaching Basics - Finding a Cache

Cache Page

The coordinates go into your GPS unit and lead you to the cache. The Description gives additional information about the cache type, location, parking, times available, type of environment, etc. You should get in the habit of reading the description as it may contain pertinent information for finding the cache. “Log your Visit” is where you go to record your find (or “did not find” – also known as “DNF”) online.

Page 6: Geocaching Basics - Finding a Cache

More Cache Page

Page 7: Geocaching Basics - Finding a Cache

After taking a look at the cache page, figuring out the general area of the hide, and loading the coordinates into the GPS, PRINT OUT THE PAGE (believe me, you want to do this), and HIT THE ROAD! After you find the cache, log in to the log book (a must), trade trinkets (optional), pack cache up neatly and securely, and return to hiding spot as found. Repeat process with other caches in the area. Return home and log your finds (and DNFs!) online. Yay! You’re a geocacher!


Top Related