Geocaching Basics

1
Geocaching Basics
2
Geocaching Basics

• What is geocaching?
• What is a geocache?
• Why would I want to go geocaching?
• Brief overview of the GPS system
• How to find your first geocache.
• The next step hide your own cache.

3
What is geocaching?

• An outdoor adventure game for GPS users of all
  ages.
• (GPS Global Positioning System)

4
What is geocaching?

1. A weatherproof box is hidden in the woods.
2. The location of the box is published on the
   internet.
3. Others go out and find the box.

5
What is a geocache?

• A weather-resistant container such as Tupperware,
  Rubbermaid, or surplus ammo box

6
What is a geocache?

• Sometimes very small (Micro-cache) 35mm film
  container Altoids Tin Magnetic Hide-a-key

7
Whats in a cache?

• Logbook
• Trinkets to trade
• Examples toys, books, coins, tools, games, etc.
• Information sheet that explains the container and
  geocaching, as well as contact information.
• Disposable camera (optional)

8
Variations on the game

• Traditional caches
• Multi-caches / Offset caches
• Mystery / Puzzle
• Event caches
• Travel bugs

9
Whats the point?

• Visit and explore new places.
• Excitement of finding Hidden Treasure.
• Family friendly outdoor activity.

10
Global Positioning System

• GPS is a system of 27 satellites (24 active, 3
  reserve) to calculate your position.

• Satellites transmit their current position down
  to Earth via radio waves.

11
Latitude Longitude
Latitude Number of degrees North Or South of the
equator
Longitude Number of degrees East or West of
Greenwich, England.
12
Latitude Longitude
N43o 38.542 W88o 11.436
13
GPS receivers
14
Where do I find out about nearby geocaches?

• Visit the website http//www.geocaching.com
  
• Key in your zip code.

• Over 25 Caches within 5 miles of here!

15
Wisconsin Geocaches
16
U.S. Geocaches
17
Worldwide Geocaches
18
What do I need to get started?

• A sense of adventure
• A GPS receiver
• A computer with internet access
• Compass (optional)
• Bug Spray or Parka

19
What are the rules?

• If you take something, leave something.
• Leave the cache as you found it.
• Respect private property.
• Cache in Trash out

20
Cache In / Trash Out (CITO)

• While searching for a cache, geocachers are
  encouraged to pick up and tote out trash they
  find along the way.

21
How To Find A Geocache
22
1. Learn About The Cache

• Print out the cache page and take it with you

23
2. Enter Co-ords into the GPSr
Waypoint Name
Waypoint Note (Optional)
Latitude and Longitude(Co-ordinates)
24
3. Follow The Little Arrow
When the arrow points straight up, you are going
in the right direction.
How far you have to go Direction you SHOULD
go Direction you are going(Typically only works
while moving) Direction you SHOULD go
25
4. Use Your Compass
Dont leave home without one!

• Take a short break allow the GPSr to settle,
  then use your compass to zero in on the actual
  geocache site.
• Pace off the distance shown on the GPSr.
• Use your compass to help you find civilization if
  your GPSr were to ever quit.

26
5. Look Around

• Look for anything unusual or out of place.
• Look in places that YOU think would be good to
  place a cache.
• No luck? Enlarge your search area.

27
6. Woo Hoo!Found It!

• Sign the log book.
• Trade items if you wish.
• No inappropriate trading items please. (this is a
  family activity)
• Leave something of equal or greater value
  compared to what you take.
• Re-hide the cache back in the same spot.

28
The Next Step

• Go out and place your own geocache for others to
  find!

• Show off a favorite area
• Think up some creative and innovative variations
• Show off how sneaky you can be
• Be sure and ask permission of land manager(s)
• Be mindful of sensitive environmental areas

29
Todays Temp. Caches
30
Todays Temp. Caches
31
Thank you!