Geocaching Fun

While I do love a good spring time walk, it can get a bit drab this time of year. In Michigan, the trees are starting to bud and the mud is inescapable as the snow melts.

To spice up your walk, especially with kids, you can do a bit of geocaching along your route. Here’s how it works.

Get the app. There are several out there and most are free. You can get a premium version if you want but it isn’t necessary.
Pick your route. We have public trails that used to be railroads and that’s what we decided on for this day. But there are many along roadsides and in parks. Check the map in the app for one’s near you.
Dress appropriately. Sometimes these caches can be in muddy areas, woods, riverbanks, tree stumps. Wear boots and long pants to protect your legs from brush and briars.
Use the app to locate the cache. It’s usually a small box or container. Inside you will find a log book, sometimes it’s just a scrap of paper. Other times you are supposed to add something the cache and move something from it to a new cache. It’s part of the fun. Follow the notes in the app for the cache you are at.
Make a cache. If you want to add your own go for it. Just know you do need to check on it every once in a while to make sure it’s still there, maintain it. It can be fun to see the log and how many other people have found your cache. Some caches are even fancy with small pulley systems into the trees. Get creative with your kids!