Welcome to GW-Caching!
California is setting off to establish a new pass-time for all GWRRA members to enjoy!

What is GW-Caching? GW-Caching is a modern day spinoff of a worldwide game of hiding and seeking treasure known as Geocaching. A GW-Cacher (you) can place a GW-Cache somewhere in the California, pinpoint its location using GPS technology and then share the GW-Cache’s existence and location online. Anyone with a GPS unit can then try to locate the GW-Cache.
What is the meaning of the word Geocaching?
The word Geocaching refers to GEO for geography, and to CACHING, the process of hiding a cache. A cache in computer terms is information usually stored in memory to make it faster to retrieve, but the term is also used in hiking/camping as a hiding place for concealing and preserving provisions. Coordinates are normally given in Latitude and Longitude.

With signals from four satellites, a GPS receiver can get a more accurate fix that includes altitude and the exact time, as well as latitude and longitude. The more satellite signals the receiver reads, the more accurate the position it reports to you.

How do I use a GPS unit for GW-Caching?
In order to go GW-Caching, you will need to understand how to enter waypoints into your GPS device. If you have any questions, try the online forums. There is always someone ready to help.
All you need is a GPS and coordinates to a specific cache location. Seems pretty easy, it is deceptively easy. It is one thing to know where a location is shown on a map; it is another to actually try to arrive at that location. The object of GW-Caching is to first remember to respect the environment and practice Cache In Trash Out along the way. Also remember we will usually be hunting the caches by motorcycle, so all caches should be placed in easy to get to places, but out of sight from the general public. Places like rest areas, fast food parking lots, Visitor centers, meeting places, etc.

What are the rules in GW-Caching?
1. If you take something from the cache, leave something of equal or greater value. Usually nothing worth more than $1.00, items like a Chapter Rally pin or small mascot toys are perfect.
2. Write about your find in the cache logbook if one is provided at the find site.

• Send you cache location to the District Director and they will have them entered into a spreadsheet on the District Web pate so that other members can find them and continue the fun.

What is usually in a cache?
In its simplest form, a cache sometimes contains a logbook. The logbook contains information from the owner of the cache, notes from visitors and can contain much valuable, rewarding, and entertaining information. In smaller caches, a log-sheet may be used. Larger caches may contain a logbook and any number of more or less valuable items. These items turn the cache into a true treasure hunt. You never know what the owner or other visitors of the cache may have left there for you to enjoy. Remember, if you take something, it is only fair for you to leave something in return. It is recommended that items in a cache be individually packaged in a clear, zipped plastic bag to protect them from the elements.

What should not be placed in a cache?
People of all ages hide and seek caches, so think carefully before placing an item into a cache. Explosives, ammunition, knives, drugs and alcohol should not be placed in a cache. Respect the local laws.

Food items are always a bad idea. Animals have better noses than humans, and in some cases caches have been chewed through and destroyed because of food items in a cache. Please do not put food or candy in a cache.

Where are caches found?
It is common for GW-Cachers to hide caches in locations that are important to them, reflecting a special interest of the cache owner. These unique locations on the planet can be quite diverse. Make sure to read the cache descriptions carefully. Caches may be located in cities both above and below ground, and outside of buildings. Even the skillful placement of a small logbook in an urban environment may be quite challenging to find even with the accuracy of a GPS. Have fun and remember to share your GW-caching experiences with fellow members.

Can I move a cache once I find it?
Do not move a cache from its original location. If you feel that the cache may not be located in the correct location, please email the District Director (DD) directly to inform of the more accurate GPS coordinate. It is an owner’s responsibility to maintain cache placement.

How do I hide a cache?
Before considering your first GW-Cache hide, we suggest you go to www.geocache.com and try to find a variety of caches in your area to familiarize yourself with the activity. Geocaching is just like real estate - location, location, location! It is common for GW-Cachers to hide caches in locations that are important to them, reflecting a special interest of the cache owner. These unique locations on the planet can be quite diverse. A prime camping spot, great viewpoint, unusual location, etc. are all good places to hide a cache.

When thinking about where to place a cache, keep these things in mind:

• Does it meet all GW-Caching requirements listed on the site? Make sure to review these during your research. Issues of concern include cache saturation, commerciality, solicitation and long-term cache maintenance.
• Did you consider accessibility? If it is too visible or too close to busy roads and trails, there is a good chance someone may stumble upon it by accident. It is best to place a cache just off trail to preserve the environment but keep it out of sight of people casually passing by.
• Did you seek permission from the land owner or manager?

Will the location placement cause unnecessary concern?
Please use common sense when choosing a location for your cache. If you find a problematic cache, please contact the DD directly.

What do I do if I find out that a cache has gone missing?
If you visit a cache location and the cache is missing, make sure to log the cache as one that you "Did Not Find" so the cache owner is notified. Cache owners who repeatedly receive "Did Not Find" logs should check to see that their cache has not been removed.

What are you waiting for?
Collect a batch of Chapter or GWRRA items you are willing to part with and find a safe place to hide them. Then share the GPS location with the DD to post on the District Web page for fellow GWRRA members to enjoy.