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Cache Types
(back
to geocache page)
(Information from
http://www.2000.com/geocaching)
The contents of a
cache!
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Traditional Cache
This is the original cache type consisting, at a bare
minimum, a container and a log book. Normally you'll find a plastic
container, ammo box, or bucket filled with goodies, or smaller container
("micro cache") too small to contain items except for a log book. The
coordinates listed on the traditional cache page is the exact location for
the cache.
The general rule of thumb is, "If you take an item, leave
an item, and write in the logbook." Some caches are themed, so make sure to
read the description before going on a hunt. |
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Multi-Cache (offset Cache)
A multi-cache ("multiple") involves two or more locations,
the final location being a physical container. There are many variations,
but most multi-caches have a hint to find the second cache, and the second
cache has hints to the third, and so on. An offset cache (where you go to a
location and get hints to the actual cache) is considered a multi-cache.
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Letterbox Hybrid
A letterbox is another form of treasure hunting using clues
instead of coordinates. In some cases, however, a letterbox has coordinates,
and the owner has made it a letterbox and a geocache. To read more about
letterboxing, visit the Letterboxing North America web site.
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Event Cache
Occasionally, local geocachers and geocaching organizations
designate a time and location to meet and discuss geocaching. After the
event the caches are archived. |
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Mega-Event Cache
A Mega-Event cache is similar to an Event Cache but it is
much larger. In order to qualify as a Mega Event, the event cache must
be attended by 500+ people. Typically, Mega Events are annual events
and attract geocachers from all over the world.
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Mystery or puzzle caches
The "catch-all" of cache types, this form of cache can
involve complicated puzzles you will first need to solve to determine the
coordinates. The only commonality of this cache type is that the coordinates
listed are not of the actual cache location but a general reference point,
such as a nearby parking location. Due to the increasing creativity of
geocaching this becomes the staging ground for new and unique challenges.
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Virtual Cache
A virtual cache is a cache that exists in a form of a
location. Depending on the cache "hider," a virtual cache could be to answer
a question about a location, an interesting spot, a task, etc. The reward
for these caches is the location itself and sharing information about your
visit.
Because of the nature of these geocaches, you must
actually visit the location and acquire the coordinates there before you can
post. In addition, although many locations are interesting, a virtual cache
should be out of the ordinary enough to warrant logging a visit. |
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Webcam Cache
These are caches that use existing web cameras placed by
individuals or agencies that monitor various areas like parks or road
conditions. The idea is to get yourself in front of the camera to log your
visit. The challenging part, however, it that you need to call a friend to
look up the web site that displays the camera shot. You will need to have
them to save the picture to log the cache. If you’re a tech-head you could
use your wireless modem and save the image yourself on your laptop. |
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Location-less (Reverse) Cache
Location-less caches could be considered the opposite of a
traditional cache. Instead of finding a hidden container, you are given a
task to locate a specific object and log its coordinates. A scavenger hunt
of sorts, it involves collecting waypoints of various objects around the
world. |
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Earthcache An
Earthcache is a special place that people can visit to learn about a unique
geoscience feature or aspect of our Earth. Earthcaches include a set of
educational notes and the details about where to find the location (latitude
and longitude). Visitors to Earthcaches can see how our planet has been
shaped by geological processes, how we manage the resources and how
scientists gather evidence to learn about the Earth. For more information
about Earthcaches, visit http://www.earthcache.org/. |
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