This document provides instructions for getting started with geocaching. It outlines the basic steps: [1] Create a free account on geocaching.com [2] Read the "Getting Started" information and forums for help [3] Use the website to find caches near your location by zip code or address [4] View the cache page for details like coordinates and log your find or did not find after searching

1. Geocaching – Getting Started: Finding a Cache by Jessica “Cool Librarian” Langlois 09-16-07
Go to www.geocaching.com
Create an account. It’s FREE! Creating an account “first thing” will allow you to
access all of the site’s features while you are learning the ropes.
After creating an account, you’ll want to start looking for caches to find. Cool. But
first, check into the “Getting Started” area, where you’ll find some good basic
information and links.

2. And, if you need help with something specific, visit the forums where experienced
cachers are available to help.
On to finding a cache!
Click on the “Hide & Seek a Cache” button…

3. …and check out all of your options!
I recommend using the zip code search first, or perhaps your address.
The result is a list of all the caches closest to your zip (or address). The list features
the name of the cache (which is also a link to the cache page), the cache type
(traditional, puzzle, etc), size (regular, mini, micro, large), difficulty and terrain
ratings, date hidden, and the date of the last time it was found.

4. Choose a cache from the list that looks interesting. Watch the difficulty and terrain
ratings – new cachers should stick with lower numbers until you have a few finds
under your belt.
Click on the link to the cache page. REMEMBER, You MUST be LOGGED-IN in
order to see the cache details – most importantly, the COORDINATES!
The

5. Cache Page
The coordinates go into your GPS unit and lead you to the cache.
The Description gives additional information about the cache type, location,
parking, times available, type of environment, etc. You should get in the habit of
reading the description as it may contain pertinent information for finding the
cache.
“Log your Visit” is where you go to record your find (or “did not find” – also
known as “DNF”) online.

6. More Cache Page

7. After taking a look at the cache page, figuring out the general area of the hide, and
loading the coordinates into the GPS, PRINT OUT THE PAGE (believe me, you
want to do this), and HIT THE ROAD! After you find the cache, log in to the log
book (a must), trade trinkets (optional), pack cache up neatly and securely, and
return to hiding spot as found. Repeat process with other caches in the area. Return
home and log your finds (and DNFs!) online. Yay! You’re a geocacher!