So close, but yet so far! It’s the geocacher’s common lament. There’s nothing more frustrating than knowing you’re standing right on top of a cache but not being able to find it. Here are a few tips that can help:

• Research the cache location. Log the cache coordinates into your GPS unit. Print out any tips offered on the locator site. (You can choose to read them only if you’re stumped.) Check a map of the area to get the big picture. Some handheld GPS units come loaded with maps and high-end outdoor units even offer topographic maps. You can get a quick area-wide view by scaling out on your automotive GPS or checking www.GoogleMaps or another internet map site. It’s easier to pinpoint the cache location when you have a general idea of where things are in the area.
• Prepare for the trip. Make sure you take plenty of water and don’t forget sunscreen and insect repellent. Wear appropriate clothing for the weather and add a jacket and raincoat in case the weather changes if you are planning to geocache all day. If you’re hiking into the woods or back country to hunt truly remote caches, bring appropriate hiking/climbing gear and always take a friend along for safety. Make sure someone back home knows your plans.
• Get as close to the cache location as you can using your GPS. You shouldn’t have much trouble getting to the general location site. It’s finding the precise coordinates that can be tricky. You may have to walk back and forth a bit. Tree or cloud cover can sometimes interfere with GPS signals, and it may take a little experimentation to hone in on the cache.

On Thursday: Finding the cache!