Geocaching

[jdmidwest]

With the advent of the smartphone, the game has increased due to the gps and internet in a easy to access place. I still use a Magellan Triton GPS unit and download caches to it off the internet before I take off looking. I then log my finds on the computer when I return. I have purchased a small netbook to use for that main purpose when I travel. And when I am out I also have access to the TOPO USA software for mapping too.

The smartphone is nice because you can be logged into the geocache website while you are searching, look at the clues, and log your visit all at one time. But, if you don't have cell signal, your phone gps does not work. A physical gps does.

Then there is the thrill of the hunt. You should never expect to find a cache in a bright orange box sitting out in plain sight. I have found outlet covers that have 2 magnets and a log painted to match a steel post. Small pillboxes with a log buried in dirt in the knot of an old tree. Larger caches are ammo cans, watertite locktite boxes, bottles with screw lids, or some type of waterproof container. Most are near the road or trail, but not always. Some have multiple clues that require some thought.

If you are ever near Houston, look for the privy cache, it is the best I have seen yet.