| A Family Geocaching Adventure |
| A Family Geocaching Adventure |
From "Family Outdoors"
episode FAO-205 |
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To undertake a geocaching expedition, the Harvey family first searched out and found some geocache Web sites on the Internet. Such Web sites give out the coordinates needed to undertake the geocache search, and they provide a place in cyberspace for participants who successfully find the cache to post their own comments about the contents, the location and scenery, and the adventures they encountered in finding it. Many sites provide a listing of numerous geocache locations and notes and maps associated with each (figure A). Depending entirely on the location of a specific geocache, and the terrain around it, some expeditions can be quite challenging -- possibly suitable only for experienced hikers or backpackers. When selecting a geocache excursion, read any posted notes and seek out any information you can about just how challenging a location you're considering will be. - Look at maps and photos of the location, if any are available.
- Select a route for accessing the location.
- Find out about road access into the area.
- Investigate what kind of topography you'll be heading into.
In summary, learn what you can about what you're getting into before you leave home. Once the Harveys had obtained some general information about the area where they were going, they entered the coordinates of the geocache into their GPS. With their waypoint entered, they checked the local weather forecasts to make certain they weren't heading into heavy snow, a rainstorm or other severe weather. They then prepared accordingly and made certain they were dressed appropriately for the weather and terrain. Good preparation may be the key to a successful geocache expedition. Once the Harvey family had done their homework on the location they were heading for, they packed up warm clothing, food, drinking water and backpacks containing items they might need in the woods (figure B). Following is a short checklist of items to take along when you go geocaching: - GPS receiver
- Compass and map
- Hiking boots
- Suitable clothing and an extra change of clothing
- Rain gear
- Food and water
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Other equipment to suit the conditions of the terrain.
Once the Harveys had driven as near as they could to the location of the geocache, they parked in a safe spot and began their trek to the specified location (figure C). They used their GPS to head in the direction of their waypoint (figure D). Once they reached the approximate location indicated by the coordinates, they began their visual search for the geocache, being careful not to disturb the natural beauty of the location. Within a short time, they had found the geocache (figure E). They opened the container, inspected the contents and recorded their names and some notes in the log book. As with most geocache adventures, the goal of the Harveys' excursion had less to do with the cache than with the journey itself and enjoyment of the natural surroundings. The location of the cache was in a scenic spot that offered a spectacular view (figure F). Safety tip: Before you leave on a geocaching trip, or any other trek into the wilderness, make certain you're well equipped for the trip, and tell someone where you're going and when you intend to be back.
RESOURCES :
GPS World home page
Web site: www.gpsworld.com
Using GPS: GPS Simplified for Outdoor Adventures (A Falcon Guide)
Model: 1560448210
Author: Bruce Grubbs
Falcon Publishing Company
Website: www.falcon.com/
Geocaching - The Official Global GPS Cache Hunt Site
The official online headquarters for the sport of geocaching, including thorough explanations and lots of web links.
Web site: www.geocaching.com
or, for a direct link to their frequently-asked-questions page:
Web site: www.geocaching.com/faq.asp
GARMIN International (GPS technology)
An industry leader in Global Positioning System (GPS) technology.
Web site: www.garmin.com
International Orienteering Federation
Web site: www.orienteering.org
TopoGrafix (GPS software)
Innovative software for Garmin, Magellan, or Lowrance GPS.
Web site: www.topografix.com
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