What is Geocaching

Geocaching is a recreational activity involving the use of a GPS, similar to a worldwide game of "hide-and-seek". Small waterproof containers called "caches" or "geocaches" are hidden in over 100 countries around the world. Inside of these containers are logbooks, usually accompanied with a pen or pencil, and sometimes a small item for trading purposes. The object of this outdoor sporting activity is to enter the coordinates of caches into a GPS, or Global Positioning System, and then locate these containers. The location of these capsules are posted and tracked on various websites that are dedicated to this activity.

Geocaching began in May of 2000, with the first GPS-located cache placed by Dave Ulmer. Originally, the activity was referred to as "GPS stash hunt" or "gpssatshing". However, it was thought that the term "stash" could possibly have negative implications. After being suggested on a discussion page, the name "geocaching" was born.

Traditionally, a geocacher will hide a geocache and record it’s coordinates. Along with other information regarding its location, the coordinates of the container are posted on listing sites. Other geocaching participants then obtain these coordinates from these websites, several of which are listed below, and enter them into their GPS before venturing off on their search. Once a cache is found, the geocacher is to record their findings and experience in both the logbook and online. Geocachers may take an object from the cache (except for logbooks or writing utensils) in return for leaving another "treasure". Treasures typically don’t have any financial value. However, they may hold sentimental value to the owner. Treasures that travel from cache to cache are called "hitchhikers". Typical hitchhikers include Travel Bugs or Geocoins. The locations of certain hitchhikers may also be tracked and followed online.

Besides a GPS, one of the most important aspects of geocaching is the hosting website. There are numerous websites that hold information regarding cache locations and descriptions. These sites are vital to communication amongst geocachers and their adventures. Listed below are several websites that will start your participation in geocaching.

Geocaching (http://www.geocaching.com): Geocaching.com is the first and "Official Global GPS Cache Hunt Site" for geocachers around the world. On this site, the locations of millions of geocaches are listed, along with easy to follow steps on getting started with geocaching. A free basic membership is available for those interested in geocaching. NaviCache (http://www.navicache.com): NaviCache.com is a more liberal geocaching site in terms of the information provided to geocachers. While all comments and posts are reviewed and approved, less information, specifically detailed location information, is held from the public. A membership, however, is required to access information posted on NaviCache.com. TerraCaching (http://www.terracaching.com): TerraCaching is a community that has the locations for caches around the world. This information is exclusively for members. The limited amount of cache listings found on TerraCaching.com provides for a challenging and enjoyable cache hunt, rather than filtering through hundreds of doubtful cache listings.