Geocaching 101

What is geocaching?: Geocaching is a real-world, outdoor treasure hunting game using GPS-enabled devices. Participants navigate to a specific set of GPS coordinates and then attempt to find the geocache (container) hidden at that location.

How is the game played?: 

At its simplest level, geocaching requires these 8 steps:

1. Register for a free Basic Membership.
2. Visit the "Hide & Seek a Cache" page.
3. Enter your postal code and click "search."
4. Choose any geocache from the list and click on its name.
5. Enter the coordinates of the geocache into your GPS Device.
6. Use your GPS device to assist you in finding the hidden geocache.
7. Sign the logbook and return the geocache to its original location
8. Share your geocaching stories and photos online.

What is the rules for geocaching?:  

1. If you take something from the geocache (or "cache"), leave something of equal or greater value.
2. Write about your find in the cache logbook.
3. Log your experience at www.geocaching.com.

Where are the geacaching locations?:  Geocaches can be found all over the world. It is common for geocachers to hide caches in locations that are important to them, reflecting a special interest or skill of the cache owner. These locations can be quite diverse. They may be at your local park, at the end of a long hike, underwater or on the side of a city street.

Can i move a "cache" to a different location once its found?: Please do not move a cache from its original location. If you feel that the cache may not be located in the correct location, please email the cache owner directly or post a log on the cache listing page, notifying the owner of your concern. Cache owners are responsible for maintaining their cache placements.

How is Geocaching pronounce?:  You pronounce it Geo-cashing, like cashing a check (cheque).

What is the meaning of the word Geocaching:  

The word Geocaching refers to GEO for geography, and to CACHING, the process of hiding a cache. A cache in computer terms usually refers to information stored in memory to make it faster to retrieve, but the term is also used in hiking/camping as a hiding place for concealing and preserving provisions.

What is a GPS divice?: A GPS device is an electronic unit that can determine your approximate location (within around 6 - 30 feet) on the planet. Coordinates are normally given in latitude and longitude. You can use the device to navigate from your current location to another location. Some devices have their own maps, built-in electronic compasses, and voice navigation, depending on the complexity of the device.

How does GPS work?:  Each GPS device is a computer that receives signals broadcast from GPS satellites. A device needs to read signals from at least three satellites at a time to calculate its general location by a process called trilateration.With signals from four satellites, a GPS receiver can get a more accurate fix that includes altitude and the exact time, as well as latitude and longitude. The more satellite signals the receiver reads, the more accurate the position it reports to you.

****I hope that all the information I have supplied help you and you enjoy your experience with Geocaching:)****

                                                              ***These are what the

                       location show up on the gps map**