Let’s Cache up: Geocaching in the Grand Forks Region

As the snow starts to melt and we feel the itch to get outside, breathe fresh air, and stretch our legs, why not try geocaching?  Not sure what geocaching entails? I’ve got you covered – let’s get into it!

What is geocaching?

Geocaching gained momentum as a popular pastime in 2000 and since then it has taken the world by storm. Geocaching is a high-tech outdoor treasure hunt and with over 3 million finds (called “caches”) available worldwide at any given time, you can find them basically anywhere. To find these caches, simply download the Geocaching app and use their given GPS coordinates to point you in the direction of a cache. The app is free, or you can upgrade to a premium subscription which provides you with coordinates of caches not available with the basic subscriptions and offline maps. Geocaches come in all shapes, sizes and difficulty levels, but the app provides information about the difficulty level of both the cache and the terrain as well as the size of the object.

So what do you do when you find a cache? First, be sure sign the logbook to prove you found hidden treasure (and don’t forget to bring a pen with you!) If you find any items inside the cache, feel free to take one, but only if you leave one of similar value – you never know what kinds of trinkets you might find! Finally, log your find on the app to celebrate!

Check out this official geocaching video if you’re still a bit unsure of the process!

Now that you know a bit about this super cool hobby, let’s check out some cool places in the Greater Grand Forks Region to spend a day (or two) exploring!

Affectionately referred to as “the Disneyland of Geocaching”, Gilby, North Dakota is a must try if you are looking to level up your geocache experience. Cachers from all around the world add Gilby to their bucketlist-driving hours upon hours and flying in from overseas to explore the playground that is Gilby. What makes Gilby so unique is that it loaded with gadget caches – between 50-60 total.

What exactly is a gadget cache, you ask? There is more to a gadget cache than simply locating it–the cache itself is a puzzle and you have to figure out how to get to the logbook inside. It might require mental or physical strength or maybe even both. Chad Thorvilson (AKA Trycacheus) is the man responsible for many of the fun finds in the area (and is absolutely famous in the geocaching world, by the way). He claims his hides are easy to find but hard to get into. Fan favorites Trycacheus hides include “Driving Miss Daisy” and “Strong Man at the Fair”. If you get stumped, don’t worry, the app can provide hints to help you unlock the cache.

If you are a seasoned cacher, you’ll definitely want to check out Gilby Gone Wild, a yearly geocache event with over 200 participants (which nearly doubles the town’s size!). Here, you’ll meet new friends, exchange path tags, and explore the new hides. The fifth annual Gilby Gone Wild is slated for September 21st, 2024. Follow Gilby’s city page to keep updated on the event. You don’t want to miss it!

For more information on Gilby, their world famous geocaching, and all the other ways their community is among the coolest in the region, check out this video.

If you are looking for a more scenic way to spend your day, try Turtle River State Park.  Considered to be a moderate difficulty traditional experience, caches are located throughout the park allowing you to enjoy the views and explore nature while you search for finds. Find a cache, exchange trinkets, and put it back for the next finder – sounds like a perfect family friendly outing!

There’s something magical about geocaching in a small town, and Larimore is no exception.  With caches located throughout town, and just a few miles away from Turtle River State Park, Larimore is an easy stop off on your adventure. Remember to keep your eyes peeled because those treasures could be hidden anywhere and look like anything from a film canister to a 5-gallon bucket!

Grand Forks and East Grand Forks are littered with finds. From the Greenway to a trail along Highway 81, there is much to explore. Caching is more enjoyable in the warmer weather, but if there’s a bit of snow you might still be able to find some treasures! Remember geocaches are hidden in plain sight, so keep your eyes peeled, you might find one where you are least expecting!

The Pembina-Walsh Historic Trail is a must if you want to learn about some area history in our neighboring counties. Caches will bring you to the over 25 historic locations including Walsh County Museum in Minto, the Grafton National Guard Armory building, US Customs House and Post Office in Pembina, Gunlogson Farmstead in Cavalier, and Gingras Trading Post in Walhalla, just to name a few. If you liked the gadget caches of Gilby you will find some similar along the trail. Plus if you log 5 finds from one or both counties, you can receive a commemorative pathtag (a customized coin to show you’ve been there and done that!)