Michelle Peters: Geocaching is the ultimate treasure hunt!

Have you ever wanted to embark on an exciting adventure that combines exploration, technology and the thrill of finding hidden treasure?

Then look no further than geocaching, the worldwide scavenger hunt. The concept is simple: grab your smartphone, download the Geocache app, put your location in and caches will magically appear on your screen. Use the online clue, and GPS navigation to find the cache, and most importantly, have fun — and be safe!

Whether you’re in a new town or city, geocaching offers an interactive experience for all ages, allowing you to discover sights often missed by the average traveller.

My daughters and I have made it a tradition to indulge in geocaching whenever we can, especially during road trips. While it may occasionally extend our travel times as we eagerly stop and explore along the way, the memories we create are priceless.

To date, I’m not sure who has more fun, and it certainly brings out the competitive side in all of us as we scramble around desperately trying to be the first to find the treasure.

Geocaches come in various levels of difficulty, from easy to hard, and are often cleverly camouflaged. False rocks or other “natural” items are often placed with hidden caches underneath, and unveiling these hidden treasures feels like a real triumph.

Caches are the “hidden treasure” of geocaching: a waterproof container containing a logbook that each person signs upon finding it, and usually a small trinket you can take. However, it’s essential to remember the golden rule of geocaching: if you take something, you must leave something of equal value in return. It’s a small gesture that keeps the spirit of the game alive.

Geocaches are found outdoors and can involve long hikes. Sometimes they can even be found in unusual locations, such as in lakes, or high up in trees or near cliffs. It’s important, however, to exercise caution and only attempt to locate caches that are safe for you and your family.

Some caches involve doing a little detective work, prompting you to gather information that must be entered into the app to unlock the clue to your next destination. In doing so, you not only uncover hidden treasures but also gain insight into the rich history of the town or city you’re exploring.

Now, you may wonder about the curious looks you receive when you’re digging around a signpost, or even up a tree. Fear not, we in the geocaching community have a term for those who don’t quite understand our passion: “muggles.” Pay them no mind and embrace the camaraderie that comes with being a part of this vibrant community. 

With approximately 80,000 geocaches scattered throughout Australia, and an abundance of remarkable ones in our own local area, the opportunities for adventure are endless. So why wait? Visit www.geocaching.com for more information, and start your geocaching journey today.