Geocaching

Have you heard of geocaching?

I've heard about it from a few different people over the past couple of months and my curiosity is now sparked.

Geocaching is basically a current-day, high-tech form of treasure hunting. Caches are hidden all over the world, and would-be treasure hunters have to go onto the internet to find out the exact geographical location of a cache and then use a GPS (global positioning system) to find it.

When a cache is found, the finder must take something out of the cache, put something else back in for another person to take, and then document their visit in the logbook that accompanies the cache. Many also take their picture at the site to further prove they were there.

Now, when I first heard about geocaching, I heard that the items can be pretty cool: books, concert tickets, CDs, jewelry, etc. In reality, though, the items are more likely to be small things like Pez dispensers, baseball cards, disposable cameras, etc.

BUT, there is always that chance you might strike gold (so to speak), and that's exciting. Plus, once you get there, you have a chance to leave something of real interest to make it fun for the next treasure hunter. And besides, geocaching - like life - is more about the journey than the destination. Geocachers usually find themselves in places that they never would have been otherwise. It gives hiking a bit more direction and purpose.

So here it is. I want to try geocaching, but I don't really know how to begin, and I'm not exactly in the market for a GPS right now. I know there are scores of caches hidden in Milwaukee, so there must be plenty of people in the area finding them.

If you geocache and wouldn't mind me or me and a pal tagging along one day, please let me know!

For more information on geocaching in Wisconsin, you can go here. Happy Hunting!

Comments

[Andre]

For whatever reason, I remembered Geocaching a couple weeks ago. I've never done it, but now that I've had a GPS for a year it seems like a good a time as any.

[Nicole]

I read about this a few months back. I have never been, but would be up for a try now that I know a little more about it. If you find out where we can do it (get equipment and such), please let me know.

I am still amazed by all the things you are finding to do in Milwaukee, and I think it is great that you are sharing them with us. Keep it up!

[Charlie]

I'm planning to go geocaching in Milwaukee this weekend (prob Saturday). If anyone would like to join and get introduced to geocaching please feel free to drop a line! ([email protected])

I've done a little bit in Portland, OR but this will be my first time in Milwaukee.

[Charlie]

BTW.. I have a GPS device, so no experience or equipment required

[Steve Bukosky]

Regarding an introduction to geocaching, I'd suggest not beginning with urban caches. They do not capture the true nature of geocaching. Better to take a trip to the Kettle Moraine and find something on either the Ice Age Trails or the many ski and hiking trails.

A 35mm film container stuffed in a hole in the city isn't a good first experience with geocaching. It's the journey that makes the experience.