Geo-what? Geocaching - pronounced geo-cashing and no, it doesn't have a thing to do with money or a compact car..... Geocaching is a modern day - techno treasure hunting game where you use a GPS(global positioning system-for those of us who are electronically-challenged;-) to hide and seek containers with others. The Great Smoky Mountains provide a great place for this new hobby.
Geocaching is an activity that has appeal for a diverse group of people… individuals and families, young and old, athletic and physically challenged, technological buffs and nature lovers…people from all walks of life. The activity can be done almost anywhere in the world, and requires a relatively small initial investment. There's even a Great Smoky Mountains Geocaching Club . I can't wait to check it out but since I don't have a GPS-I'll need to tag along with one of the real geocache-sters !! Anyone up for teaching a newbie cacher?
The Geocaching sport has grown to caches in all 50 states and over 100 countries. There are many variations of the game, including virtual caches, offset caches, puzzle caches, and multi-stage caches. Blount County- TN is full of a variety of these caches that will delight all that participate in this fast growing sport. There are numerous hidden caches around Townsend, the Smokies and Cades Cove.
So visit the Geocaching.com site for a full listing of all the caches in the Townsend and Blount County area and explore areas that few visitors will ever see. If any of you "geocachers" from the Smokies would like to share your favorite Smoky Mountain cache story - please email me at heavenlycabins@charter.net I would love to hear from you.
Photo by Cheryl Gilliam
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