Sun Peaks Resort is holding its first ever geocaching weekend event July 24 and 25. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, everyone is welcome to take part in this technological treasure hunt.
Geocaching is a modern treasure hunt where people try to look for hidden caches using a GPS.
If you want to try geocaching, this is your chance. On July 24 at 9 a.m., Discover Sun Peaks Adventures will explain the different types of caches, how to use a handheld GPS, and how to pre-program waypoints in your GPS.
Using a GPS is not that complicated, said Maria Cannon, general manager of Discover Sun Peaks Adventures.
“It’s very easy to use,” she said. “We’ve been running group and teambuilding programs utilizing handheld GPS close to five years. I’ve experienced with all of the groups that people catch on fairly quickly. It’s suitable for all ages.” In fact, even Cannon’s six-year-old son James who accompanies her on occasional geocaching treks has learned how to use it.
Participants must register in advance through the Adventure Centre to enrol in this introductory course.
Once you know how to play the game, there are two geocaching events called Seek the Peaks Valley Caches and Alpine Caches that anyone can take part in for free. On July 24, geocachers can search for the 15 hidden caches along the lower valley hiking trails. The geocaching event begins at 1 p.m. at the Adventure Centre. Participants will be given a map of the trails as well as the cache coordinates.
Over 30 hidden caches on the alpine hiking trails are up for grabs on July 25. This event is free, but a lift ticket is required. The meeting place is 10 a.m. at the bottom of the Sunburst Chairlift.
Exceptional tracking abilities will be rewarded at the weekend wrap up barbecue at Masa’s Bar and Grill. Collect the ballots from the caches for a chance to win free gear from Helly Hansen. A prize also awaits the person who finds the most number of caches first.
GPS units are available to rent for $45 at the Adventure Centre (maximum of two adults and two dependants per geocaching pack).
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