Geocaching, a fairly new hobby since 2000, involves a handheld GPS receiver and a physical "hunt" outside and away from the computer. It is often described as a "high tech treasure hunt, combining technology, the Internet, the outdoors, and a sense of adventure.
Those who are interested log onto Geocaching.com to setup a free account. Meanwhile, a handheld GPS receiver needs to be purchased or borrowed. Car GPS units are not as ideal as the handheld versions, normally purchased for hiking or hunting. The handheld variety come with a lanyard, as well as being equipped with utilities specifically for geocaching. These models are designed for "off-roading" while the automobile variety are more suited for finding roads, interstates, exits, and places to eat.
Geocaching is simply this: upload a desire geocache to the GPS receiver (based on a zip code or latitude/longitude coordinates) from Geocaching.com. Next, follow the GPS directions to the geocache site. The GPS receiver (a.k.a. GPSr) brings the geocacher to the general site (usually within 10 to 15 feet of accuracy). Once in the general location, the real "hunt" begins. Geocachers start using their eyes and minds to physically find where the cache or "treasure" is hidden. Geocaches can be anywhere considered "public," including city and rural caches. They can be well hidden, but NEVER buried.
Geocaches can range in size from a container the size of a thimble, to a large ammunition canister -- with all sizes in between. Many are traditionally self-sealing plastic containers, camouflaged to blend into their surroundings. Some geocaches contain only logs to sign, while others are big enough to house a log and trinkets for trading. The fun is both the "hunt" and the "find." Geocachers sign the log, trade out trinkets, and re-hide the cache for the next treasure hunter.
Once the physical log is signed and the cache replaced, geocachers return to their computers, logon to their Geocaching.com accounts, and sign the geocache's "virtual" or online log. New geocachers need to not reveal anything about the location, as this may spoil the hunt for those who have not yet found said geocache. However, geocachers can warn about possible dangers that could be encountered.
In the Kentuckiana area, based on a search on the Geocaching.com site from zip code 40202, there are over 12,000 geocaches within a 100 mile radius! Aside from the purchase of the GPSr (starting at $100), geocaching is a relatively inexpensive hobby. Many families embrace this hobby, in light of the current trend of "staycations" or day trips in lieu of vacations. Geocaching also couples well with camping, as many caches are inside or near state parks. Geocaching can enhance a vacation, making for better sight-seeing opportunities than many expensive tourist attractions.
Source: http://www.geocaching.com/
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