New to Geocaching? Here are a few of the basics.

Don’t worry, geocaching, pronounced “geo-cashing,” is a fun and easy family activity.  Discovering a geocache is very much like going on a treasure hunt using a hand-held GPS (Global Positioning System) to plot map coordinates to locate the treasure or “cache.”  On the Star-Spangled Banner Geotrail, most of the caches are plastic lock-and-lock containers (similar to tupperware, but more heavy duty). Want to learn more? Check out these Frequently Asked Questions, FAQ, from the folks at geocaching.com.

What is a GPS device?

A GPS is an electronic device that can determine your approximate location (within around 3 -15 feet) on the planet, giving coordinates in Latitude and Longitude.  Each GPS receiver is a computer that gets signals broadcast from GPS satellites. A receiver needs to read signals from at least three satellites at a time to determine its general location by a process called trilateration. The more satellite signals the receiver reads, the more accurate the information it reports to you.

This brochure from geocaching.com (Groundspeak) is quite helpful in explaining many of the basics behind geocacing and provides tips on how to get started. You can also check out this guide from the Maryland Geocaching Society. It has great advice on how to get started.

What might I find in a cache?

At a bare minimum, a cache must consist of a container and a log book. A typical cache may also include trinkets and trade items. Geocache etiquette asks that each discoverer of the cache who takes a trinket, replace it with another item.

Codewords?

All of the caches on the Star-Spangled Banner Geocache Trail will also contain a code word about the people, events and places involved in the War of 1812. These code words will be recorded by geocachers on a passport as they visit each a site.  Its part of the treasure hunt!