Columbus Metro Parks has a summer geocaching scavenger hunt going on through August 31. They have hidden 15 caches at 15 different parks. What is exciting is that in addition to finding the cache, there is a code word sheet that needs to be solved. Clues to solving the codes are inside each cache.
We have found two caches. The caches have been hidden right off the trail so there was no bushwhacking through poison ivy for the prize. If you are new to geocaching, here are some down and dirty steps to help with your adventure:
1. Download a GPS or a compass with the ability to log coordinates such as: Happy Magenta Commander Compass. This compass allows you to enter in longitude and latitude coordinates to your destination (which are offered on all hidden caches). I found that the free geocaching.com app is great if you just want to go geocaching, but I could not find the GeoTrail caches listed on the free app. When I asked a naturalist at Blendon Woods she could not help me, either. There is a paid app available for $9.99.
2. Go to geocaching.com and sign up for a free membership and get the cache coordinates for the GeoTrail. I googled “Columbus Metro Parks geocaching” and it pulled it right up for me.
3. Create a bag of trinkets and don’t forget it at home. When you find a geocache your kids can exchange a trinket they brought for a trinket in the box (this has been the fun part for my kids). Be sure they are small such as an army man, or some have left loom bracelets and bouncy balls.
4. Pick the park you want to visit. When you arrive pick up a Park Scope magazine for the code words (located in the very middle of the magazine).
5. Have fun!
6. Sign the log and hide the cache in the same spot where you found it.
Some tips I have learned along the way:
- Bring bug spray and sunscreen.
- Bring water and snacks.
- Wear comfortable shoes that are good for walking and the chance that you’ll have to step off trail to pick up the cache. My friend wore jeans to be safe from poison ivy.
- Locate the nature center for bathrooms. It never fails that my kids have to go potty as soon as
we get someplace…even after mommy specifically asks them go BEFORE we leave. I am sure you know what I am talking about. - Not all trails are good for strollers; plan to carry baby.
- Some finds are up to three miles round trip. Have time for bench breaks and don’t get frustrated when the kids start complaining the trail is too long.
- Bring your phone so you can look up and identify a new plant or bird you see.
- At Highbanks there were tiny frogs all along the path (I really hope I didn’t step on one!) that the kids enjoyed picking up and placing safely off the side of the trail. And snails!
