How to start geocaching: Tips from an expert with 10,000+ finds

👀 Know the ground rules. Watch a few quick videos to understand the basics.

✅ Start easy. Caches are labeled for difficulty, so find easy ones first (1 star) and work your way up.

😬 Don't worry about "muggles." Searching can feel awkward with others around, but acting confident should dispel any suspicion.

• If possible, wait for muggles to walk past before grabbing a cache.

👍 It's OK if you can't find one. This is very common!

• Post on the digital log that you missed it. The cache owner will sometimes give another hint and you can try again.

Level up your geocaching journey

🎁 Bring trinkets to share. Larger caches have room for knick-knacks — players follow a "take something, leave something" system.

🤝 Get social. It's great as a group activity and can have major social benefits for older players.

• Ohio cachers are headed up to the annual Midwest Geobash in Fulton County later this month.

🗺️ Place your own. Hiding caches is fun, but requires regular maintenance to keep them in suitable shape.

Searching in the Metro Parks

Our local Metro Parks offer two ways to explore the outdoors through geocaching.

🚶 The beginners tour: This collection of 10 caches is ADA accessible and great for newcomers.

👽 The annual GeoTrail: It features an "Alien Invaders" theme this year, with 15 caches up for grabs at 15 different parks.

• Find code words on each to unlock a bonus 16th cache.