What is Geocaching? Fun, Family Outdoor Activity

Use Global Positioning Systems (GPS) to Hunt for Treasures!

Aug 12, 2009 Nicholas Morine

Geocaching is a recreational, environmentally-friendly activity that promotes exercise, exposure to the outdoors, sharing, and waste removal all at the same time.

Bored on a sunny summer day, or even a dull winter chill? Geocaching is a relatively new activity or hobby that is family friendly, enjoyable for couples, as well as for a solo adventure!

What Exactly Is Geocaching?

Geocaching takes place when intrepid treasure hunters take to the outdoors in search of caches, or small containers containing trinkets and other items as well as, usually, a logbook to record their presence. Via the use of a handheld GPS unit – affordable ones begin at the $50 range – the geocachers enter a set of co-ordinates posted on geocaching websites for their area, and follow the directions to reach their destination.

Caches may be hidden in parking lots, cemeteries, wooded areas, sports fields, hiking trails, downtown areas – the sky is the limit when it comes to finding a geocache, properly hidden away from those who might discover it by accident without prior knowledge.

Commonly, those interested in geocaching tend to bring along a pocket full of small items, baubles, or even items commonly of value to leave in exchange for something they might take from any caches they find. Caches typically come in a few sizes – nano, micro, and small. Large caches do exist, although they are more unusual due to the chance that they may be found by muggles (people who do not engage in the practice of geocaching) and removed from the site or disturbed.

The Environment and Geocaching – Cache In, Trash Out

One does not have to be an active environmental activist to geocache – though most participants bring a shopping bag with them in order to pick up any trash they might find while exploring. Geocaching is an activity which, at its very essence, is about enjoying the out-of-doors and appreciating the environment.

The most popular website related to geocaching on the internet, Geocaching.com, actively promotes a "Cache In, Trash Out" programme which entreats geocachers from all walks of life to actively pick up waste on their outdoor adventures. Sponsored by DeLorme (a prominent GPS provider), there are also several meets where hundreds of geocachers hold true to their green philosophy and engage in group geocaching activities.

Fun for the Family, Safety and Responsibility

Not only is geocaching a very safe activity when conducted properly (always be careful when on rocky or uneven terrain, be sure to bring water, proper footwear, and communications devices in case of emergency) but it is great fun for all members of the family.

Children are very interested in the concept of hunting for treasures, love the outdoors, and trading small items of negligible monetary value can be a valuable and fun lesson in sharing and community, as well as a great chance to enjoy the gifts that Mother Nature offers!

An inexpensive, healthy activity that promotes wellness not only with regards to physical fitness (the requisite hiking and walking are perfect for light exercise) but also pertaining to cleaning up the environment and one's own community, geocaching is a quickly growing hobby that is sure to capture the minds of those interested in getting some fresh air, having fun, and making a difference, however large or small.

Related Articles Pertaining to Fitness and Outdoor Activity

People looking for a little more action in their outdoor fitness activities might appreciate an article on How to Play Paintball : Speedball, or Tips on Playing Paintball : Woodsball if the game is taking place in a forested area. Hikers or outdoors enthusiasts with an eye for photography might do well to take a look at Outdoor Photography, Forests for a few select pointers.

The copyright of the article What is Geocaching? Fun, Family Outdoor Activity in Vacations & Leisure is owned by Nicholas Morine. Permission to republish What is Geocaching? Fun, Family Outdoor Activity in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

Bring a Map, Compass, GPS, Geocaching Safety	Mother Nature, Outdoor Activity for Family, Kids	Be Environmentally Friendly, Cache In Trash Out
Family Friendly, Kids, Children, Parents Enjoy!	GPS, Global Positioning System, Affordable, Easy