Geocaching can be described as a high-tech treasure hunt.  Using a GPS (Global Positioning System) unit, geocachers place a container, known as a geocache or cache, in a hidden spot, and record the position using their GPS unit.  The geocacher then posts the position on the internet, allowing other geocachers to take this information, plug it into their own GPS devices, and seek out the container.  Caches generally contain a logbook and inexpensive trinkets for trade.  Once a geocacher finds a cache, they sign the logbook, and exchange the item in the container with an item of their own.  They then place the cache back in it's original spot, and log their visit online.

The North Bay Geocachers Association and the Ontario Geocaching Association are two group show are dedicated to promoting and encouraging people to experience this unique outdoor activity, as well as supporting the hundreds of caches hidden in the Near North region, and all across Ontario.  The North Bay Geocachers Association and the Ontario Geocaching Association provide support to geocachers all around the world, and offer an outlet to announce geocaching events happening throughout the province.  You can find out more about these groups by visiting their websites at northbaygeocachers.forumotion.net/forum.htm and www.ontgeocaching.com. 

Variations

There are numerous forms of geocaches.  Simple caches generally involve the geocacher searching for a hidden cache using one set of coordinates.  However, there are more complex geocaches that require considerable travel and extensive searches.  Listed below are a few variations.

Traditional - This is the basic and most common cache type that involves only one stage, where geocachers find the cache using a set of coordinates.  It generally requires geocachers to record their visit in a log book, and may also involve a tradable item, or trinkets for visitors to take with them.

Multi-cache - Multi-cache involves a set of caches, each one containing coordinates to the next , with the final cache holding the log book and tradable items.

Letterbox Hybrid - This cache includes a rubber stamp and a log book.  The geocacher brings their own stamp and stamps the cache's log book, then stamps their own personal log book with the letterbox stamp.

Moving/Traveling - The finder of this cache records their visit in the log book, trades trinkets, and then hides the cache in a different location.  The new location is recorded online, and the new finder continues the cycle of hiding the box in a new spot once found.  

Night Cache - These caches are found at night following a series of reflectors using flashlights until they reach the cache's location.

Virtual - This variation does not include the traditional hidden box, log book, or tradable items.  Instead, the cache is a description of a particular location (plaque, building, etc.), and the geocacher is required to take a picture of the location as proof of their find, and email it to the hider.

Mystery/Puzzle - This cache is similar to the multi-cache, except that it requires the finder to discover and interpret information or solve puzzles in order to find the location of the cache.

Offset - This cache involves giving initial coordinates to a location which will provide information or clues used to decode the final cache coordinates.  

For more variations of geocaching, you can visit www.geocaching.com.  

Finding a Cache

To find caches in your area, visit www.geocaching.com and enter your postal code in the search box.  The website will then list the caches closest to you.  Geocaching.com lists a series of steps they suggest visitors follow when heading out to avoid any unnecessary frustrations:

1) Research the cache - Read the cache description and find out more about terrain and difficulty of the area.

2) Preparation - Take adequate gear including extra water, pens, paper, maps, compass, dry socks, and your GPS.

3) The Hunt - When visitors reach the area, it is suggested that they mark the location of their vehicle with their GPS in order to avoid getting lost on the way back.  Visitors should follow the GPS to the general area, staying on the trails as much as possible.  Once they reach the cache site, pocket the GPS and start hunting, looking for obvious hiding spots while trying not to disturb the area while searching.

4) The Find - Log the visit the log book, trade items if appropriate (remember to trade up or trade even), make sure items are safe, and make sure the cache is fully sealed and placed back where it was found.

Geocachers are reminded to always make sure to log the find on the geocaching website, and have fun!

Geocaching resources:

North Bay Geocachers Association - northbaygeocachers.forumotion.net/forum.htm  

Ontario Geocaching Association - www.ontgeocaching.com  

The Official Global GPS Cache Hunt Site - www.geocaching.com 

Canadian Geocaching Association - www.canadageocaching.com