Yes! A new geocache—inside the Suwannee Library Technical Center.

For an experienced geocacher it is easy to spot and I was the FTF! In geocaching lingo that means First to Find, and there is often stiff competition among geocachers to be the first one to sign the log in a new cache.

So, what is geocaching anyway? The easiest way to describe it is to say it is a GPS guided treasure hunt. Many people remember orienteering; geocaching is a high-tech version of orienteering.

A geocache, very basically, is a hidden container with a log and sometimes some small trade items. Caches come in all sizes and shapes, from tiny "nanos" to 5 gallon buckets. They can be found in pretty much any setting you can think of. Some are very easy to find, like the one in Suwannee, while others are placed to be very deliberately "evil!"

Geocachers, or those who seek geocaches, also come in all sizes and shapes, as well as all levels of physical ability, and all ages.

If you only want to stop next to a guardrail for a quick "Park and Grab," or if you want a long, hard hike, you can find options that are suitable for you.

Kit Lane enjoying another favorite
activity around Suwannee

Geocaching has been going on now for 17 years and caches can be found almost everywhere in the world. I have found caches in Cuba, Italy, Mexico, and Peru. The only state where I have yet to find a cache in is Hawaii. Yes, I am planning a trip!

To get started you must sign-up on geocaching.com. Once you have an account—free!—you can start looking for nearby caches. Using a hand-held GPS, with the coordinates shown online (provided by the person who placed the cache), you follow them to GZ, ground zero, and start looking. Once you find the cache you must sign a paper log that every cache is required to have, and then, by logging it online on your account at geocaching.com, you will start to build your cache count.

I started geocaching in 2004. It has taken me to some wonderful places that I might not otherwise have discovered. Little parks in out of the way places, for example. Through geocaching I realized that I love volcanos! Who knew? Sunset Crater Volcano in Arizona was fascinating. I toured Yellowstone Park by following the caches (in many National Parks the only types of caches available are Earthcaches or Virtual caches; you can learn about these at the website) from one geological feature to the next. I hiked the Rim Trail at the Grand Canyon the same way, following the Virtual caches all the way along.

Check it out! My only warning is this: you may become addicted!

Editor's Note: Keep watching this blog. More geocaches may be announced for Suwannee in the near future.