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Exploring Fresno Through Geocaching

Geocaching Fresno

Use your GPS to find hidden containers, known as caches. Typical caches contain a logbook for you to sign and items to trade. Many caches also contain “trackables,” small trinkets that can be moved from one cache to another and logged on a website.

Some geocachers mitigate this perception by picking up litter while searching for caches, an activity called Cache In Trash Out (CITO). Events are often organized around this practice.

Locations

There are many geocaching locations to choose from. Some are more difficult to find than others, and some have certain requirements, such as being wheelchair accessible or having a specific type of container. It is important to check the geocaching site’s rules before looking for a cache. Some items are not allowed, including weapons and food. Also, it is against the rules to remove anything from a geocache, even if it is just a scrap of paper.

Geocachers often clean up their search areas and act responsibly, a practice known as “Cache In Trash Out.” In some instances, they have cleaned up entire parks or other public spaces that would otherwise have been neglected.

Specialized geocaches are called Adventure Labs, which require the player to perform an activity. They usually teach a lesson about the area in which the cache is located, such as geology or ecology. The first Adventure Lab was hidden in partnership with 20th Century Fox and Groundspeak to promote the 2001 remake of Planet of the Apes.

Rules

A GPSr is required to play geocaching (some masochists do without them). The cache coordinates are given in latitude and longitude, and the location is determined by the satellite signals interpreted by the device.

Caches placed on private property must have permission of the owner or manager before being hidden. It is the responsibility of the cache owner to make arrangements for this permission. If a cache requires a hike that passes through sensitive areas, or an area where it is inappropriate to disturb wildlife or plants, the cacher should include this information in the cache description.

A challenge cache is a physical cache that includes a logbook and an additional, reasonably attainable, geocaching-related task that must be completed to log the cache online as a find. Learn more about this cache type in the Help Center. A reviewer will consider any such challenges when reviewing a cache for publication. Communicate with your reviewer by posting a Reviewer Note on the unpublished cache page.

Tips

Spending time outside is great for both physical and mental health, but walking the same old trails can get boring quickly. Geocaching is an activity that helps people find new places to explore, while teaching them about the world around them. It’s the do-it-yourself version of treasure hunting that uses GPS technology to help people find hidden containers.

Before starting, it’s important to familiarize yourself with common geocaching acronyms and terms. For example, FTF means First to Find and TFTC means Thanks for the Cache. Also, it’s helpful to know the difference between map and compass views in the app. The former shows your location on the map, while the latter points to where you actually are.

Geocachers are a friendly community, so don’t be afraid to ask for a hint if you’re stumped. And remember, it’s never a good idea to disturb a cache or its surroundings. If you must, leave a note in the app to let the owner know you were there.

FAQ

Geocaching is a game where people use GPS coordinates to hide and find containers called caches. It’s a great way to get outside and explore. There are lots of different variations on the basic idea, but everyone involved needs to have access to a GPS device with geocaching software.

A cache is usually a small waterproof container that holds a logbook (where you sign your name with an established code name or username) and potentially some items for trading. It’s important to bring a pen or pencil to the cache so that you can write in the log and leave your item(s). Other kinds of caches include Earthcaches, which ask visitors to perform a task that teaches them about geology (rock formations, minerals, earthquakes, fluvial processes, faults, volcanology, etc.).

This one is located at the NorthEast corner of Delphia & Patterson which was once home to Zapp’s Park. Safe pull out parking nearby.

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