Geocaching

Geocaching is best described as high-tech treasure hunting: using GPS devices to locate hidden containers called geocaches. Geocaches are hidden in many outdoor locations throughout the UK and all around the world – even Antarctica!

Geocaching is an ideal family activity: young children love the idea of a treasure hunt; the older kids can show off their ability to use another gadget; and parents will be happy that everyone is getting some healthy outdoor exercise and learning something at the same time. You can even combine geocaching with cycling, hiking or running.

Geocaching mixes technology with outdoor adventure and is a great way to explore locations near and far. Experienced geocachers can download co-ordinates for the caches from www.geocaching.com while those new to the sport can hire a GPS unit with pre-loaded co-ordinates and, after some basic instruction, follow directions to each cache.

After locating the containers, finders have the opportunity to share their experiences with the growing online geocaching community.

Look out for regular events at all of the country parks. For those of you without GPS devices you can hire these from Trailnet at selected country parks.

Contact geocaching@trailnet.org.uk or call 07939 249980 for more information.

Local Treasures

Thanks to a grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund, Trailnet, in association with Essex Country Parks, has developed a series of geocaches that are located close to historical, cultural and ecological sites within the county’s nine Country Parks.

For more information on this project, please see our dedicated Essex Parks Geocaching site.