Clearfield County PA Backwoods, Backroads, Backwaters 2012 : Page 13
@ccbackwoods/geocaching Campers Discover GEOCACHING By Sue Moore A nyone who has ever sat in on a conversation between two or more geocachers knows that the conversation can go on for hours. So, writing a short story about our geocaching adventures is nearly impossible. I figured I’d start with a story that happened before we discovered geocaching. GEOCACHING 101 What is Geocaching? Geocaching is a real-world outdoor treasure hunting game. Players try to locate hidden containers, called geocaches, using GPS-enabled devices and then share their experiences online. Our first camping trip together took us to a quiet little area in the Moshannon State Forest called Panther Rocks. It was going to be a quick overnighter to explore the rocks, do a little hiking, and enjoy the sounds of the woods. We set the tent down in a spot that seemed remote enough, just in case anyone decided to visit the rocks while we were there. That night, as we were relaxing and listening to the night sounds, I saw a flash of light. Since the sky was clear I thought maybe headlights from a distant passing car, but then saw it again and realized it was a flashlight! Our idea of a quiet night out in nature turned into the realization that someone was coming out to party and disrupt our peace. We waited and waited, but never heard a thing. Perplexed, but happy that our trip was not disturbed by revelers, we packed up and headed for home the next morning. After we started geocaching we went back to Panther Rocks to search for a geocache that had been hidden there for years. Only then did we realize we had set our tent down within fifty yards of the cache that night. You never know where a cache might be hidden. It could be under that pile of rocks in the woods, under the base of a light pole, or on the backside of a guardrail. However, once you do start looking, you’ll never look at things the same way again. Geocaching Tips & Tricks • The main rule of geocaching is that if you take something from the geocache you must leave something of equal or greater value. • Know your GPS device. This will make the search a lot easier! • Read the hints in the description very carefully. Geocaching Etiquette When placing or seeking geocaches, I will: Visit Clearfield County You won’t believe what you can find while geocaching! The kids will loved it! 22 hours ago • Like • Comment Clearfield County Geocaching Trails Visit www.VisitClearfieldCounty.org/ outdoors/geotrail to find trails. Or, scan the image below with your mobile device to get started. • Not endanger myself or others. • Observe all laws and rules of the area. • Respect property rights and seek permission where appropriate. • Avoid causing disruptions or public alarm. • Minimize my and others’ impact on the environment • Be considerate of others. • Protect the integrity of the gamepiece. What Should I Leave? What Will I Find? The main rule of geocaching is that if you take something from the geocache you must leave something of equal or greater value. Here are some examples: SCAN It! Share It! Sheltie3Team Really enjoyed this old cemetery. The foundation must have been a church at one time. Interesting place. TFTC! Post your pictures and geocaching stories on our Facebook page! 13 1.866.GO.Wilds
Campers Discover Geocaching
Sue Moore
Anyone who has ever sat in on a conversation between two or more geocachers knows that the conversation can go on for hours. So, writing a short story about our geocaching adventures is nearly impossible. I figured I’d start with a story that happened before we discovered geocaching.<br /> <br /> Our first camping trip together took us to a quiet little area in the Moshannon State Forest called Panther Rocks. It was going to be a quick overnighter to explore the rocks, do a little hiking, and enjoy the sounds of the woods. We set the tent down in a spot that seemed remote enough, just in case anyone decided to visit the rocks while we were there. That night, as we were relaxing and listening to the night sounds, I saw a flash of light. Since the sky was clear I thought maybe headlights from a distant passing car, but then saw it again and realized it was a flashlight! Our idea of a quiet night out in nature turned into the realization that someone was coming out to party and disrupt our peace. We waited and waited, but never heard a thing. Perplexed, but happy that our trip was not disturbed by revelers, we packed up and headed for home the next morning. After we started geocaching we went back to Panther Rocks to search for a geocache that had been hidden there for years. Only then did we realize we had set our tent down within fifty yards of the cache that night.<br /> <br /> You never know where a cache might be hidden. It could be under that pile of rocks in the woods, under the base of a light pole, or on the backside of a guardrail. However, once you do start looking, you’ll never look at things the same way again.<br /> <br /> Clearfield County Geocaching Trails<br /> <br /> Visit www.VisitClearfieldCounty.org/outdoors/geotrail to find trails. Or, scan the image below with your mobile device to get started.<br /> <br />
Publication List
Using a screen reader? Click Here