What is Geocaching?
Thousands of people all over the world are discovering a new pastime known as geocaching (pronounced JEE-oh-kash-ing). This adventure hobby involves the use of a GPS (Global Positioning System) enabled device, and coordinates provided on the official geocaching website (http://geocaching.com). The GPS receiver guides its operator to hidden treasures just waiting to be found all over the countryside. A typical geocache consists of a waterproof container, a log book, and trinkets for trading. Once the log book is signed and trinkets exchanged, the container is put back in exactly the same place it was found, to await the next finder.
Geocaching is an entertaining high-tech treasure hunt. It has grown into a worldwide phenomenon catching the interest of everyone from adventure travelers to families looking for ways to spend more time together. The craze began in 2000, when a group of GPS enthusiasts began creating “adventures” using latitude and longitude coordinates as clues. Today, more than 5 million people worldwide have joined in the Geocaching fun. All you need is a map, a GPS device and a sense of adventure!
Every geocache hunt can be a completely different experience. In many cases, the trip leads the geocacher to new and unusual places they may never have seen if they hadn’t been guided by their GPS receiver and the geocache hider’s directions. Geocaching is a great family activity! Getting started is easy. All you need is a handheld GPS receiver or a GPS enabled smartphone and internet access.
What is a GeoTour?
A GeoTour or GeoTrail is a series of geocaches connected by one or more common themes (location, terrain type, heritage, etc.). Often the series has an accompanying brochure or passport containing guidelines, space to record finds, and can be kept as a memento. Prizes – such as geocoins – are often awarded for meeting certain milestones on the GeoTour.
