What is Geocaching?
It's easy to get started in geocaching, a workout plus treasure hunt with enough of a technological challenge to keep even computer fans happy. Using the Internet and a GPS (Global Positioning System), you can hunt for geocaches all over Pennsylvania, as well as the rest of the United States, and in 190 countries. Caches have been set up all over the world by individuals and organizations, and the locations of these caches are shared on the Internet - most on geocaching.com. It's as easy as selecting a cache to hunt for, and using the coordinates of its location and a handheld GPS unit to find the cache. Once found, the cache may yield a variety of rewards - from keychains to gift certificates. For most, the best reward is the thrill of discovery and the fun of exploring new places.
Unlike many states, geocaching is allowed in Pennsylvania state forests and parks as well as in the Allegheny National Forest. Be careful to preserve these great natural resources by staying on marked trails, refraining from trampling vegetation, and leaving everything as you found it.
So What's in a Cache?
A geocache can come in many forms but the first item should always be a logbook which contains information about the owner of the cache as well as messages from the cache's visitors. Logbooks are usually fun to read and also allow you to record the time and date that you visited the cache. The logbook and other cache items are usually found in a concealed waterproof container, often made of plastic. Ammo boxes are also popular cache containers because they are strong and waterproof.
Along with the logbook, many caches contain "treasure" items - keychains, maps, books, foreign coins, jewelry, games, polished rocks, pens and trinkets. Larger caches (usually more difficult to locate) may contain more valuable treasures such as videos, computer software, or gift certificates. Some geocaches even have themes, like "Starbuckian Dream" which is always filled with coffee delicacies. You never know what the founder of a cache or its visitors may have left for you to enjoy. You may take one or two items to enjoy, or as a memento of your geocaching adventure. Remember, however, to leave something of comparable value in return (no food - it attracts animals), so that future visitors to the cache will also have something to discover. Geocaching is done entirely on the honor system, and it only works if everyone participates in that spirit.
What Do I Need for Geocaching?
Geocaching requires using the Internet to find cache coordinates, a GPS for entering "waypoints" to discover cache locations, and an adventuresome spirit. GPS units don't need to be fancy, and can be obtained for less than $100. We use the good, basic Garmin eTrex on our geocaching adventures.
