Perhaps nothing is more reminiscent of childhood treasure hunts than geocaching on a multi-use trail or rail-trail. This recreational activity is perfect for those who want to combine the excitement of discovery with the wonders of the outdoors. Trail travelers may find containers hidden in old tunnels, under fallen trees or near ponds, following clues and tracking coordinates on their smartphones. Once found, there may be a logbook to sign and often an inexpensive trinket to switch out with one of your own. We’ve compiled a few geocaching trails across the United States that call out to adventurers.
The Medicine Bow Rail-Trail takes you back in time with the remains of former railroad worker camps and mining communities within the rugged woodlands of Wyoming. The 21-mile gravel path is rich in both history and moose, so keep your eyes peeled for both historical relics and meandering wildlife. Numerous streams, swamps and bogs, meadows of grass and fallen pine logs are perfect locations for geocaches. This trail completely submerges the recreationalist in nature, offering no signs of modernity in the deep corners of the forest. Come prepared and come looking for trinkets.
Rhode Island is known for a few state delicacies: coffee milk, Del’s Lemonade and Iggy’s Doughboys & Chowder. While many tourists find themselves on the streets of Newport, not many go to Providence for the geocaching scene. The Easy Bay Bike Path offers maritime views, coastal wildlife and eight parks between Bristol and the state’s capital. For 14 miles, the multi-use trail traverses bridges, parallels the waterfront and cuts through wooded parks. Inducted into the Rail-Trail Hall of Fame in 2009, this trail is a perfect experience for geocaching in the city with plenty of natural areas in between. Mark Lil Rhody on your geocaching bucket list in the hopes of finding some valuable trinkets in the Ocean State.
Another Rails-to-Trails Conservancy Hall of Famer, the Wabash Trace Nature Trail is ideal for discovery. Traveling through forests and countryside in southwest Iowa, this rail-trail is known for the tranquility found within secluded wooded areas and its breathtaking vistas. The path offers 62.6 miles of endless opportunities for geocache hiding, whether it be near the two train-car wreckage, under the bridges that bend over creeks, or around downtown Silver City. Be sure to pack water and bug spray, as trail amenities are scarce and hours can be spent enjoying this epic trail.
The Lower Deschutes River, designated a National Wild and Scenic River, attracts many whitewater rafters, hikers and mountain bikers every year. The sheer beauty of the area is reason enough to go with wide canyons, pristine waters and golden eagles soaring in the intense heat. In every direction, trail travelers will see breathtaking scenery, such as foraging elk standing atop rock walls under an unbelievably clear sky. Take yourself to this fantasy world and channel your inner Bilbo Baggins as you follow the Deschutes River and find geocaches on the path.
The Tammy Trace trail stretches just over 27 miles in Louisiana, just north of New Orleans. As the state’s first rail-trial, it serves as a respite from the heat under the piney woods and moss-draped oaks. What may be most enticing about this trail is the homeliness of it. Close by is the quaint town of Abita Springs, which is home to several museums, farmers markets, breweries and music halls. Wander other charming towns along the path, explore the quiet woodland and embrace the area’s history, all in pursuit of trinkets left behind by those who shared a similar experience in the past.
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