Thinking of Hiding a cache? Some Tips....

• It's really not a GREAT idea to hide a cache until you have had the opportunity to find a few first. Ten is a good number, 20 is better. This way, you will have a chance to see what works, what doesn't, what kinds of hides you like to find (and why) - all of this experience will make you a MUCH better cache hider!

• Do not list a cache until it is in place! You may think you'll get it out in time, but depending on where you live, the hard-core FTF (first-to-find) hunters will probably beat you to it. Also, you have no way of knowing exactly when the cache page will be published. So, make sure the cache is in its spot BEFORE you list it!

• The more info on your cache page, the better.
  

• After you place your cache and have the coords, look at the coords on a map. The map is usually the first thing a cacher looks at when viewing the new cache page. Is the map accurate? Is there something on the map that is no longer there? Note any irregularities on the cache page.

• Read and print out and follow the guidelines on "How to Hide a GREAT Cache" by either clicking on the title here, or by clicking on it in the left-hand sidebar (towards the bottom).
  

• Again, there is no substitute for experience - find some caches BEFORE hiding some caches.
  

Geocaching: A Hobby in Pictures - Presentation

My main slide show for the clinic. View below, at slideshare, or download the actual .ppt file here (you need PowerPoint2003 to do this).

Introduction to GPS - Presentation

Introduction to GPS for Geocachers presentation by Chris of Team BBWolf&3Pigs. Watch it here, full-screen on slideshare, or download it. Cool, huh?

What is Geocaching? - Presentation

What is Geocaching? presentation by Andrea Mercado. Watch it here, watch it full screen at slideshare, or download it.

Geocaching - Presentation

Introduction to Geocaching presentation by Gary Paquette (aka geokelticfrog). Feel free to watch it from here, watch it on slideshare (full screen, if you like), or dowload it to your computer.

Hiding a GREAT Geocache - Handout

(you can print this out)

While I highly recommend that you read the cache hiding guide on geocaching.com, there are some general guidelines, as well as some idiosyncrasies specific to SE Mass and Rhode Island, that will help you hide successful caches.

In General
A great geocache will provide some combination of nice walk/hike, scenic location, historical interest, hidden gem of a location, appropriate container, and nice swag. It’s best to get a few geocaches of different types under your belt before hiding your own.

Location
Geocachers in this area appreciate a nice hike, beautiful scenery, and historic locations – and there is no shortage of any of those traits around here!

Look for “pocket parks,” nature preserves, woodland areas, coastal areas, mill ruins, waterways (streams, rivers), and historic sites. Urban areas are tough unless the hide is clever, appropriate to the area, and well-hidden. If an area shows signs of teenage party activity, or is in a popular fishing spot, it is likely that the cache will be found and stolen (just FYI).

Remember: no private property, no Audubon Preserves, no National Parks, no archaeological sites. If in doubt, contact your area reviewer. Also, try not to hide caches in stone walls (unless it can be easily seen by someone looking for it) or in sensitive vegetation.

Container
A good container must be waterproof and contain, at minimum, a logbook.

A great cache is waterproof (Tupperware/Rubbermaid/Lock n’ Lock/ammo can), has a logbook in a freezer-weight Ziploc bag, a pen or pencil (NOT stored in bag), a “stash note” explaining what the cache is, and some trade items for kids and adults. The “dollar store” is your friend for swag items. Container should also be clearly labeled as such on the outside (and a clear container is best if possible).

A Word about MICROS
The container should be appropriate to the area. If there is room for a standard-size cache, there really is no need to place a micro in the woods (unless it is a stage of a multi-cache). While this is largely my personal opinion, most area cachers appreciate clever micros in interesting areas that do not have space for a traditional cache. Also, placing a micro in the woods leads to the destruction of vegetation, stone walls, and etc. if the cache is too difficult to find. Some parts of the country LOVE micros placed in guardrails every 600 feet – New England is not one of them.

Good Coordinates and “Dry Runs”
Some people average together several sets of coordinates, some people (like me) leave their GPS in place for several minutes to get a good fix. Whatever your method, test your coordinates to make sure they are accurate before publishing your cache page. When placing a multi cache or puzzle cache, have someone do a “dry run” to make sure everything works well.

The Cache Page
The cache page is the guide for your cache. A well-written description, good difficulty and terrain ratings, cache attributes, and a hint (if it’s a tough one) all increase the likelihood that your cache will be enjoyed.

Most importantly, HAVE FUN!

Click Here to print this out! (pdf)

Geocaching the SAFE Way - Handout

(you can print this out)

General Guidelines for caches that are local and close to the car (small parks, drive-ups, etc)

1. Geocache with a buddy whenever possible. It’s safer and more fun.
2. Carry an ID card at all times.
3. Tell someone where you are going, and when you will be back.
4. Carry a cell phone.

Guidelines for woods geocaching and longer hikes (the above rules apply, plus the ones below)

1. NEVER hike in the woods alone.
2. Stay on the trails. The majority of geocaches (unless otherwise noted) can be found by following trails.
3. Carry a compass, a whistle, and your ID on a lanyard around your neck.
4. Dress appropriately - and in layers - for the weather and terrain. Wear proper footwear!
5. “Mark” the location of the car or main trail before you start each hike.
6. Carry a pack with water, powerbars/Snickers, map, and small first-aid kit for hikes longer than half mile.
7. Wear blaze orange in hunting areas during hunting season.
8. Stay alert and aware of your surroundings. Watch your footing, be aware of others on the trail.
9. If you get lost, don’t panic. Try your cell phone first. Use your compass. Use your whistle. STAY PUT!

Guidelines for geocaching with children

1. Keep children in sight at all times.
2. Each child should have a whistle and ID on lanyard around the neck. Teach child about whistle use.
3. Teach child that if they get lost, they should STAY PUT (in woods) or find ranger (in park).
4. Dress children in bright colors so you can see them easier.

For other tips, Google “hiking safety,” hiking first-aid,” “geocaching safety,” and similar terms.

Click Here to print this out! (pdf)