Getting Started
  
Cache codes with the prefix: NOG represent Northern
Ontario Geocaching
Cache codes with the prefix: EOG represent Eastern
Ontario Geocaching Cache codes with the prefix:
COG represent Central Ontario Geocaching
Looking for a cache.
First off it helps to know some basic compass, map
(probably topographical) and GPS skills. Start where you buy your GPS
unit. There are books, videotapes and GPS manufacturers’ Web sites to
learn from.
To become a competent navigator you will need to use
the functions of the GPS unit along with knowing where you are and in what
direction you are headed in order to find a cache. The GPS ultimately gets
you very close to the cache. Read the clues and then keep those 'eagle
eyes' ready to spot the cache and the treasure therein.
Also, Ontario GPS Treasure Hunting will
be developing a tips section to assist in skill development and solving
clues. Check back for more details.
Caches are most often found in white
plastic pails, with lids and handles, which have been re-used for this
type of treasure searching. The contents of the cache and the guidelines
for being an honest Geocacher are found in the
Protocol section of the
Menu. Look in the Prize section for more details pertaining to codes.
Look in the
Reporting section on how to win a prize.
You can find as many caches as you like and submit
each time.
Where are the caches?
GPS Treasure Hunting sites or caches can
be anywhere in Ontario. Access points and landmarks are often used
to start the search. People undertaking the search of a cache do so of their own volition and within their own
abilities. See the Safety and Environment section for tips.
Caches can be found on foot, on a mountain
bike, in a canoe, using snowmobiles, snowshoes, cross-country skis or
ATVs.
Caches are numbered, evaluated for degree
of difficulty (see below) and given a catchy title related to that tourism
value it may be promoting (vista, waterfall, rock formation, landmark,
etc…). The number of caches will increase over time. There will be more
caches in some areas than others, with a variety of levels of challenge
(see below). Caches can be located within all four seasons of the year.
Look for hospitality suppliers for more information, there are
caches near their businesses
Many caches at the 'Sunday driver'
family/introductory level will entail driving your car to a convenient
location and searching with a little challenge. This may be clue
interpretation or walking off the trail for a short distance. It will be
fun for everyone. A map may not be required. Enjoy the scenery.
The intermediate or 'weekend warrior' type
of cache will increase the time, distance and physical/mental ability of
locating the cache. It may require a great deal of searching in a densely
wooded or wetland area. Using a trail system may be required. It may
require the 'thinking' of how to get to an area that seems a little
inaccessible. It will be fun with an element of challenge. Maps may be
handy. Take a snack.
The third level is the challenging section
where caches may be hidden well from sight, where time getting to a
destination increases, along with an increased level of physical and
mental ability. Finding these caches requires planning with an advanced
degree of effort. Map reading will be important. Take your lunch.
There will be special GPS treasure hunt days or events planned and sponsored by communities, service sector or
other hospitality providers. Click on
EVENT PLANNING for details.
|
