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Adventure Lab

Geocaching Adventure Lab is a new app and platform that allows you to create, play, and share location-based experiences and games. The Adventure Lab app guides players through the process of finding clues, solving puzzles, and completing Adventures one location at a time. Each Adventure Lab typically has 5 stages and each stage counts as a find. Currently the creation of Adventure Labs is by invitation only from Geocaching.

ALR

"Additional Logging Requirement". Logging requirements beyond finding the geocache and signing the log. All ALRs are considered optional for finders of a geocache.

Archive

Archiving permanently removes a geocache listing from search results. A geocache owner can archive their own listing but cannot unarchive it. Only a reviewer can unarchive.

Attributes

Icons featured on a details page for geocaches that describe specific characteristics of a geocache. There are several classes of attributes, such as whether or not you need special equipment, possible hazards along the way, or unique conditions one should be aware of. Attributes can show whether or not a cache is wheelchair accessible, dog friendly, requires a flashlight, and more.

Augmented Reality (AR)

From June 06, 2018 until March 06, 2019 Geocaching HQ conducted an Augmented Reality (AR) experiment. During that time, cache owners were allowed to submit Mystery Caches that require the finder to download and use an AR app to find the cache. Even though no new AR cache submissions are currently accepted, these caches remain availabe and can be found by searching "AR_" in the geocaching search tool.

Basic Member

The introductory membership type for Geocaching.com. There are two types of membership, Basic and Premium. Geocaching Premium Membership offers additional features that Basic membership does not provide.

Benchmark

Using your GPS unit and/or written directions provided by NOAA's National Geodetic Survey (NGS), you can seek out NGS survey markers and other items that have been marked in the United States.

Bison

Also known as a "Bison tube". A small, metal, water-tight cylindrical container that can be used for micro caches. Its name comes from the original manufacturer, but there are now several other brands on the market.

Bookmark List

A Geocaching Premium Membership feature that can be used to group geocache listings in whatever way you like. You may want a Bookmark List of caches you intend to find this weekend or perhaps an "all-time favorite" list to share with friends.

Bug

Also known as a Travel Bug. A trackable tag with a unique code that can be attached to an item. The trackable is then carried from cache to cache (or person to person) in the real world, and its progress can be followed on Geocaching website.

BYOP

Bring Your Own Pen/Pencil. This means the CO didn't leave a pen or pencil in their container or the cache is to small to hold own, therefore you'll need your own to sign the log.

Cache

A shortened version of the word geocache.

Cacher

Also known as Geocacher. One who participates in geocaching.

Challenge Cache

A type of geocache that requires seekers to find an associated physical cache, and to find an additional set of geocaches as defined by the challenge owner. Challenge caches encourage geocachers to set and achieve fun goals.

CITO

Cache In Trash Out. CITO is an on-going environmental initiative supported by the worldwide geocaching community.

CO

Cache Owner - Person who owns the geocache.

Coordinates

A pair of numbers (latitude and longitude) that pinpoint an exact position, or waypoint, on the Earth. Latitudes are horizontal lines on the globe that run parallel to the Equator (similar to rungs on a ladder). Latitudes never intersect, and one degree of latitude equals approximately 69 miles (111 kilometers). Longitudes (also called meridians) are vertical lines on the globe that converge at the North and South Poles. They are widest apart from each other at the Equator. The Prime Meridian runs through Greenwich, England near zero degrees longitude.

Difficulty and Terrain or D/T

Geocaches are rated in two categories, each designated on a 5-point scale (in half-point increments). Difficulty relates to the mental challenge of finding a geocache, while Terrain describes the physical environment. Therefore, a D1/T1 rating would be the easiest geocache to find, while a D5/T5 rating would be the most difficult.

Disable

A status used to mark a geocache as temporarily inactive. A disabled geocache may need repairs or could be in an inaccessible area (construction, hunting, winter closures, etc...). This status is meant to be temporary and should be resolved within a reasonable amount of time.

DNA

Did not attempt. Usually only placed in a write note on the cache page.

DNF

Did Not Find. This means the geocacher didn't find the cache they were searching for, either because their hunting skills weren't effective enough or the cache may have a problem.

EarthCache

An EarthCache is a special place that people can visit to learn about a unique geoscience feature of our Earth. EarthCache pages include a set of educational notes along with cache coordinates. Visitors to EarthCaches can see how geological processes have shaped our planet, how we manage its resources and how scientists gather evidence to learn about the Earth.

Enable

A status used to mark a geocache as active when it was previously disabled. A cache owner enables a geocache when it is ready to be found again, typically after maintenance has been completed or the issues causing it to be disabled (example: construction at geocache location has been completed) is resolved.

Event Cache

An Event Cache is a gathering of geocachers. The Event Cache page specifies a time for the event and provides coordinates to its location.

Favorite Point

Geocaching Favorite points are a simple way to track and share the geocaches that you enjoyed the most. This is a premium member only feature. You can earn 1 favorite point for every 10 geocaches you find. You can award these using your found log or by visiting the geocache page and selecting the drop down at the top and awarding a favorite. Note: Event caches cannot receive favorite points.

FTF

First to Find - this is what you log when you have been the first to person to find and sign the logbook of the cache.

Found

AKA "Smiley". After you have found the geocache, signed the physical log (or completed the logging requirements), and finished logging the geocache online, this is the status you will see on the geocache page.

GC Code (GCXXXXX)

All caches have a 'GC' code which makes them unique to search for.

Geocache

A hidden container that usually includes a logbook for geocachers to sign. Also known as a cache.

Geocoin

Geocoins work similarly to Travel Bugs. They are coins with a unique code that can be attached to an item. The geocoin is then carried from cache to cache (or person to person) in the real world and is logged online at the Geocaching website.

GeoTour

GeoTours are collections of geocaches that create self-guided, themed tours around historic sites, parks, cities, and more. GeoTours are often sponsored by local tourism boards, historical associations, or national park services. Local experts pick out the best places to hide new geocaches. If you find 100 percent of the caches on the GeoTour at that time, you will earn a GeoTour souvenir for your profile, a perhaps even a geocoin or other prizes. Keep in mind that the exact number of caches on a GeoTour may increase or decrease over time.

Giga-Event

An Event Cache that is attended by 5,000+ people. These large events attract geocachers from all over the world and are often held annually. Note: A Mega-Event cache is attended by 500+ people.

GPS

"Global Positioning System". A system of satellites working with a GPS receiver to determine a person’s location on Earth. More about geocaching with a GPS.

GPS Adventures Maze Exhibit

The GPS Adventures Maze is a traveling educational exhibit developed to teach people of all ages about navigation, GPS technology and geocaching. A hands-on experience that features GPS technology (its history, current uses and future possibilities), it simulates geocaching by leading visitors through a maze rich with interactive science experiences.

GPSr

Slang for a GPS receiver. Equipment to receive GPS signals for use in navigation.

GPX (GPS eXchange Format)

A common GPS data format used to describe waypoints, tracks, and routes that can be interchanged between GPS devices and software.

Ground Zero (GZ)

The point where your GPS device shows that you have reached the geocache location. At ground zero, you are zero feet (or zero meters) away from your destination.

Groundspeak

Groundspeak, Inc. is the company that owns and operates Geocaching.com, Waymarking.com, and Wherigo.com. Groundspeak was launched in 2000 by Jeremy Irish, Elias Alvord, and Bryan Roth. The Groundspeak headquarters is located in Seattle, Washington, USA, and is referred to as Geocaching HQ.

HIPS

Hidden In Plain Sight

Inventory

A grouping or list of non-collectible trackable items that can be seen by other geocachers. Trackables in an inventory can be grabbed, dropped, discovered, etc. Conversely, items in a collection can only be seen by the owner and can only be discovered (not grabbed, dropped or dipped).

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L:

Left. Means that they left a trade item. Usually logged like this: L: Keychain

LEO

Law Enforcement Officer.

Letterbox(ing) Hybrid

Letterboxing is another form of treasure hunting using clues instead of coordinates. In some cases, the letterbox owner has made their container both a letterbox and a geocache and posted its coordinates on Geocaching. If there is a stamp inside a Letterbox Hybrid, it is not an item intended for trade; the stamp is meant to remain in the box so visitors can use it to record their visit.

LN

"Left Nothing". A common term used when a geocacher leaves nothing in the geocache and simply signs the logbook.

Locationless (Reverse) Cache

A grandfathered cache type considered the opposite of a Traditional Cache. Instead of finding a hidden container, geocachers locate a specific object and log its coordinates.

Lock & Lock

Lock & Lock is a type of container that uses four snaps on the lid to create a seal.

Log (Logbook)

This refers to both the physical logbook inside of a cache container and/or the online record of everyone who has interacted with a geocache. The physical record inside of the container is usually made of paper but can come in many different sizes, shapes, and formats. The online cache logs can record finds, DNFs, notes, suggest a cache needs maintenance, etc.

LPC

Lamp Post Cache. A common hiding place for caches, particularly in the US. The cache is found by lifting up the 'skirt' of the lamp post.

Mega-Event Cache

An Event Cache that is attended by 500+ people. These large events attract geocachers from all over the world and are often held annually.

Micro

The smallest geocache size. Micros are about the size of a film canister, and sometimes smaller. Nanos (about the size of a pencil eraser) are a subset of Micros.

MKH

Magnetic Key Holder.

Muggle

A non geocacher. Based on "Muggle" from the Harry Potter series, which is a non-magical person.

Muggled

The discovery of a geocache by a non geocacher. When a cache has been "muggled", it usually means it was dismantled or removed by an unsuspecting non-player.

Multi-Cache

A Multi-Cache involves two or more locations. The final location is a physical container. There are many variations, but most Multi-Caches have a first stage with a hint to find the second stage, and the second stage has a hint to the third, and so on.

Mystery (Puzzle) Cache

A non-Traditional Cache type that doesn't fit into the other categories. Coordinates listed on the cache page are often bogus, and the final coordinates must be solved for through a series of steps or instructions.

Nano

The tiniest of all micros. The smallest unofficial geocache size. Nanos are about the size of a pencil eraser.

NM

Needs maintenance. Log type suggesting there is a problem with this cache and needs owner maintenance.

Owner Maintenance

A log type that cache owners can use to let searches know that you have performed maintenance of the geocache. This is also how a Needs Maintenance warning is removed from a geocache by the cache owner.

P&G

Park and Grab. A cache that's good for quick stop off's on route as they're relatively easy to find and you can park nearby.

PI

Poison Ivy

PMO

Premium members only. A PMO Cache is one that’s only available to Premium members of Geocaching.com.

Pocket Query (PQ)

A Pocket Query is a custom geocache search that you can create and download on a daily or weekly basis. PQs give you the ability to filter your searches so you only receive information on the geocaches you want to search for in either a GPX or LOC format. This feature lets you download up to 1,000 caches at a time. Note: It is a premium member feature.

Posted Coordinates

The main latitude and longitude listed for a geocache are called posted coordinates. Posted coordinates can be the location of the container, the first stage of the cache hunt, or a general reference point in the area.

Power Trail

A path with a large number of caches placed within close proximity to each other. Promotes players' ability to easily increase their find count.

Preform

A plastic container similar in appearance to a test tube, but with a threaded neck. Normally formed into containers such as soda bottles. Preforms are durable and water tight, which makes them excellent geocache containers.

Premium Member

Geocaching.com members with a paid Geocaching Premium Membership. Premium members have more features available to them than Basic members.

Puzzle Cache

A type of Mystery Cache involving puzzles to be solved to determine the final coordinates. The puzzle should be solvable from the information provided on the cache page.

QEF

Quick Easy Find.

Reviewer

Community volunteers from all over the world who review geocaching listings for content and publish cache listings on Geocaching.com.

ROT13

A simple letter substitution cipher, or code, where each of the letters are rotated 13 characters up or down in the alphabet. Hints for geocaches are encrypted using ROT13.

SBA

Should Be Archived. Log type suggesting that there is a problem with a cache, like it's missing, destroyed or in an area of danger and the reviewer needs to archive the listing.

Signal

Signal the Frog is the official mascot of Geocaching.com.

SL

Signed Log.

Smiley

AKA "Found it". This is the emoji icon you will see after you have found the geocache and finished logging the geocache online.

Souvenir

Souvenirs are virtual pieces of art displayed on your public profile. These can be attained by completing promotional events by Groundspeak, completing a GeoTour, attending a Mega or Giga event, or finding a geocache in a geographical location such as a new state or country.

Spoiler

A spoiler is information that can give details away and ruin the experience of something. For example, telling someone the end of a movie before they see it. In geocaching, a spoiler gives away details of a geocache location and can ruin the experience of the find.

STF

Second To Find. The second person to find the cache and sign its logbook.

SWAG

Stuff we all get - the toys and tradable items you find in a cache.

T:

Took. eg. :T: Keychain L: Golf Ball

TB

Travel Bug. A tag with a unique code that can be attached to an item. The trackable is then carried from cache to cache (or person to person) in the real world and is logged on the Geocaching website.

TB Hotel

"Travel Bug Hotel". A geocache with the intended purpose of acting as an exchange point for Travel Bugs. These are almost always regular or large sized containers.

TFTC

Thanks For The Cache. Commonly placed by new geocachers. Please take time to write at least a few sentences when you log your find online. This how you say "thank you" to the cache owner for creating and placing the geocache.

TFTH

T4TH. Thanks For The Hide.

TN

Took Nothing.

TNLN

Took Nothing. Left Nothing.

TNLNSL

Took Nothing, Left Nothing, Signed Log.

TNSL

Took Nothing. Signed Log.

TOTT

Tool Of The Trade. This generally indicates that some type of tool or instrument may be required to retrieve or gain access to a cache.

Trackable

A tag with a unique code that can be attached to an item. The trackable is then carried from cache to cache (or person to person) in the real world, and it can be logged on the Geocaching website.

Tracking Number

A unique number associated with a Travel Bug or trackable. Tracking numbers are used as proof that a geocacher physically came in contact with an item. Tracking numbers also double as a way for users to locate the personal web page for a Travel Bug on the Geocaching website.

Traditional Cache

The original geocache type. The coordinates listed on the Traditional Cache page provide its location. Geocache containers vary in size, but must include a logbook or logsheet. Large geocaches generally include SWAG or trackable items for trade, while small “micro” caches may only hold a logsheet.

UPS

Unnatural Pile of Sticks. A nice indicator of where to look!

UPR

Unnatural Pile of Rocks. Tells the finder to look out for some oddly stacked rocks.

URP

Unnatural Rock Pile.

Update Coordinates

A log type that cache owners can use to update the coordinates to their geocache location. A reviewer will get these logs and will review the new cache location for potential issues just like a normal cache submission.

Virtual (cache)

A grandfathered geocache type where geocachers discover locations rather than containers. The requirements for logging a Virtual Cache vary; you may be required to answer a question about the location, take a picture, complete a task, etc. In any case, you must visit the coordinates before you can post your log. These are still available to find, but no longer available for creation on Geocaching.com.

Watchlist

Lists that users maintain to receive notifications regarding specific geocaches and/or trackables. Users receive a copy of each posted log via email.

Waymarking

Waymarking.com offers a way to mark unique locations on the planet and give them a voice. While GPS technology allows us to pinpoint any location on the planet, mark the location, and share it with others, Waymarking is the toolset for categorizing and adding unique information for that location.

Waypoint

A reference point for a physical location on Earth. Waypoints are defined by a set of coordinates that typically include longitude, latitude and sometimes altitude.

Webcam Cache

A grandfathered geocache type using existing web cameras placed by individuals or agencies that monitor various areas such as parks or business complexes. The idea is to get yourself in front of the camera to log your visit, then use a smartphone or ask a friend on a computer to look up the website displaying the camera shot. You or your friend must save the picture in order to log the cache. These are still available to find, but no longer available for creation on Geocaching.com.

Write Note

A log type that allows you to post a note to a cache rather than a found log or a DNF log. This is used when you want to let the cache owner know something, to make an observation, or perhaps when you searched for a cache but did not give it a proper effort to warrant a DNF log.

WGS84

The most current geodetic datum used for GPS is the World Geodetic System of 1984 (WGS84). The significance of WGS84 comes about because GPS receivers rely on WGS84. Geocaching uses the WGS84 datum by default. Geocaching also uses the coordinate format HDDD MM.MMM, which is a standard for handheld GPS receivers. HDDD means Hemisphere and degrees. MM.MMM are minutes in decimal format. It is critical that the format be correct, otherwise geocachers will be unable to find your geocache.

Wherigo Cache

Wherigo.com is a toolset for creating and playing GPS-enabled adventures in the real world. By integrating a Wherigo experience, called a cartridge, with finding a cache, the geocaching hunt can be an even richer experience. Among other uses, Wherigo allows geocachers to interact with physical and virtual elements such as objects or characters while still finding a physical geocache container. A Wherigo-enabled GPS device or a smartphone running the Wherigo app is required to play a cartridge.

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