For treasure hunting that goes to a technological extreme, grab a GPS and start searching.
By Alexandra Hruz and Lindsey Hughes

Techies and the outdoors: stereotypes would tell us they mix like oil and water, but the newest craze in adventure technology begs to differ. Making its mark as the newest trend in hobbies, geocaching has inspired millions to get off the couch and become modern-day treasure hunters. And while caching might not be the gold coin scavenging of pirate novels, it does inspire connotations of 21st century Magellans. Geocachers can travel around the country, or even around the world, to sate their need for discovery by using a handheld Global Positioning System (GPS) device and a strong trailblazing energy.

What is Geocaching?
Geocaching is an outdoor treasure-hunting game that combines the use of a GPS device and trailblazing ingenuity to locate hidden containers throughout the world. According to Tom Dunigan, former adjunct associate professor in Computer Science at the University of Tennessee, this game of high-tech hide and seek uses satellite technology to locate caches.

While all caches contain a log for cachers to report their find, some also contain treasures (usually a small toy or knickknack like a key chain or pencil.) Cachers are encouraged to take these treasures and replace them with something they brought with them.

Cachers can find coordinates for these containers by searching their area on the geocaching website (geocaching.com). Each cache has its own page detailing the coordinates, general location, difficulty level, hints and tips from users that have already found the cache. Once you find the perfect cache, put the coordinates into your GPS and begin your search. After a long day on the hunt, cachers return to the geocaching site and archive their find on the caches page.

Hidden in official geocache tubes or Tupperware containers, some caches can be found in plain sight, but many have gone to extreme lengths to hide their treasure—like in a hollowed out fence post, in a decoy outdoor water faucet and in posts on billboards. One is even buried a mile and a half under water in the Atlantic Ocean.

Tales from a Trailblazer
While geocaching might not result in treasure chests filled with gold, hidden caches still provide plenty of excitement and anticipation for those searching for them. Not only is this hide-and-seek hobby perfect for those who are interested in technology, it can also satisfy the desire to explore new places.

Audra Wallis, UT student and Knoxville resident, began geocaching after a friend suggested it to her when she told him she wanted to know more about the area she lives in. While she has only been caching for a few months, Wallis says she has found a whole new world in her backyard.

“I managed to find a trail while out caching that is literally right down the hill from my apartment,” Wallis says. “It was a gorgeous little spot, that in the winter has a view of Neyland stadium.”

Tips from the experts
For those who are less than sure about their technological skills or don’t have a clue how to find their first cache, Dunigan suggests finding experienced GPS users to provide firsthand knowledge on how to use the device.

While exploring East Tennessee, Wallis always brings extra bug spray and water, a compass and a print out of hints and directions to the caches she is looking for.

Dunigan and Wallis emphasized that cachers should carry extra batteries and a flashlight. Wallis also says that new cachers should allow for more time than they actually think it will take.

Today, there are between two and three million active geocachers worldwide, and more than 900,000 hidden caches. With more than 12,000 caches in Tennessee and almost 3,000 in Knoxville, this hobby will keep the most adventurous techies busy for months.

For some, geocaching can bring back memories of earning scouting patches in orienteering. But for others, it provides an excellent opportunity to enjoy the outdoors while becoming more versed in the ways of technology.

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Ready, Set, Geocache
New to treasure hunting? Here’s what you need to get started.

Magellan eXplorist GC Handheld GPS
$199, Walmart.com. Built for geocaching, this vibrant GPS lets you preload caches to find them with ease.

Moped Day Pack
$45, Luglife.com
This lightweight bag has the perfect amount of storage space for all your caching gear with extra space for drinks and snacks.

Pearl Izumi Gel Gloves
$30, LLbean.com
Keep your hands safe from sharp objects and creepy crawlers with these gel gloves.

Dr. B’s Geochaching Newbie Kit
$19.95, Amazon.com
No idea what else to bring? Dr. B has you covered. This kit contains all the small things you need for you first adventure.