Exploring the Hidden Treasures of Newfoundland and Labrador: A Geocaching Adventure
Exploring the Hidden Treasures of Newfoundland and Labrador: A Geocaching Adventure In the vast and rugged landscapes of Newfoundland and Labrador, an exciting outdoor activity has gained popularity, enticing adventurers to explore the hidden corners of the province. Geocaching, a modern-day treasure hunt that combines technology and outdoor exploration, has found a welcoming home in the diverse and picturesque terrains of the province. Being of Newfoundland descent, I love to combine my two passions - visits 'home', and geocaching. My hobby has brought me to some beautiful spots around the island that I would never otherwise have even known about! I think of it as discovering the beauty of The Rock, one cache at a time! Geocaching involves using GPS coordinates to locate hidden containers, or 'caches', placed by fellow enthusiasts. After you find the cache, you sign the log book or log sheet that is inside, you can trade for swag that is in the container, and then you replace everything as you found it, for the next finder. The caches come in various sizes and can be found in urban areas, parks, and even remote wilderness locations. There are millions of geocaches worldwide, located in 184 countries. There's even a geocache hidden on the International Space Station in orbit 370 kilometers above Earth. Enthusiasts like me, known as geocachers, use online platforms like Geocaching.com to share coordinates, log finds, and connect with others in the geocaching community. Different Cache Types Geocaching offers a variety of cache types, each presenting a unique challenge for adventurers. You'll encounter traditional caches, puzzle caches, multi-caches, and even Earthcaches that educate about geological features. The diversity of cache types ensures there's something for everyone, from families seeking a casual day outdoors to experienced hikers looking for a more strenuous challenge. Attending a geocaching event, which you can find using the website or geocaching app, is a great way to connect with local geocachers and learn about this fun activity. The Geocaching Scene in Newfoundland and Labrador Newfoundland and Labrador, with its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural history, offers a unique and rewarding geocaching experience. As of the latest count, there are over 8,500 geocaches scattered throughout the province, ranging from easy urban finds to challenging backcountry treasures. Many of the scenic sections of the East Coast Trail are host to geocaches, but some can be found in almost every town and village in the province. In fact, you have probably walked right by a geocache, and not even known it was there! Hidden Gems and Intriguing Locations Newfoundland and Labrador's geocaching scene is a treasure trove of hidden gems, each cache telling a story about the region's history, culture, and natural wonders. Some of the most interesting geocaches are strategically placed to guide adventurers to lesser-known landmarks and scenic viewpoints. You can look these up using the code that is provided, at geocaching.com. Extreme North (GC2CY1W): this geocache is hidden near a Lab One Fuel cache way up in Labrador in the Torngat Mountains National Park. You will likely need a helicopter to get to this remote location! It's on my geocaching bucket list for sure! Nova Scotia to Newfoundland Multicache (GC3TJEH): this geocache is an experience like none other. It starts on the mainland in eastern Nova Scotia where you get your first waypoint. You then cross the Causeway onto Cape Breton and collect two more waypoints, and use the information you have gathered to calculate the final location in Newfoundland. This is a great cache to try if you're taking the ferry home. And the view from the cache, near Wreckhouse, is outstanding! The Lookout: first ever cache in Newfoundland (GCE1C): Located along the East Coast Trail about a kilometer southeast of the Logy Bay Ocean Sciences Centre. This cache offers panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and it's a favorite among locals and visitors alike. I found this one in June of 2016. Whale-watch Rock (GC1WMFE): Another geocache you can find while exploring the coastal beauty of the Blackhead Peninsula, this cache provides a perfect excuse to enjoy the stunning vistas while searching for hidden treasures. It's another cache I found back in 2016. NL - Margaree Taffy Earthcache Cache (GC4FWNY): this cache provides a fascinating lesson on the ancient igneous rocks - melted like taffy, as the cache name implies - located along the shoreline near Margaree on the southwest coast. I was here in 2022. Conclusion Geocaching in Newfoundland and Labrador is more than just a hobby; it's a journey of discovery through the province's rugged landscapes and rich history. Whether you're navigating the vibrant streets of St. John's or hiking the remote trails of Gros Morne National Park, geocaching adds an extra layer of excitement to your exploration. So, grab your GPS device (yes, even a smartphone will work), lace up your hiking boots, and embark on a geocaching adventure to uncover the hidden treasures of the Rock. About the author Glen Morry's father was from Ferryland, and his mother from St. John's. He lives in Ottawa, but tries to get 'home' for visits whenever he can. He's an avid geocacher, with over 15,000 finds so far! NOTE - I have several photos to go with this article, but can only seem to attach one.
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