It only took an hour of searching in the dark at a Confederate fort in Alexandria, La. while looking for a hidden geocache for Walt Adams to realize his obsession with treasure hunting. On hands and knees, Adams felt around in the dirt, hoping to get his hands on the treasure he sought. And while Adams did eventually give up for the night, he wasn't deterred by his loss. He woke up early, went to the site, found the cache and managed to catch his morning flight back to Idaho as well. Combined with a penchant for technology, Adams found the best of both worlds in geocaching, a modern day hobby that uses GPS technology to find hidden caches. And while it might not be the treasure hunting of pirate novels, it does inspire connotations of modern-day Magellans. Geocachers can travel around the country, or even around the world, to sate their need for discovery by using a handheld GPS device and a strong trailblazing energy. Here are a few tips and suggestions from experienced geocachers on how to jump start this treasure-hunting hobby.

What is Geocaching?

Geocaching as a hobby came about in 2000 after satellites that were originally used for military purposes were made civilian-friendly, allowing people to use GPS devices to track items to within 10 feet, according to Tom Dunigan, former adjunct associate professor in Computer Science at the University of Tennessee. The combination of Internet technology and the change in accuracy of the GPS unit allowed geocaching to develop as a serious hobby, Dunigan said. Today, there are between 2 and 3 million active geocachers worldwide, and more than 900,000 hidden caches.

"It's based on latitude and longitude, so it's not like the traditional map," Dunigan said. "It's up to the individual to figure out how to get there, and once you get there, often the cache is hidden in some fashion."

Dunigan explained that the caches are typically hidden in old Army ammo boxes or Tupperware containers, and they sometimes contain trinkets that past explorers left for others to find.

According to Dunigan, a log is often placed with the cache for people to sign after discovering it. Following a find, geocachers can create an online account on a geocaching Web site to create a virtual log of their finds.

Essentials for Geocaching

While a strong sense of direction and a taste for adventure can certainly be helpful while searching for hidden goods, geocaching does require a handheld GPS device, as well as access to the Internet. For those who are unsure about how to pick out a proper GPS device, Geocaching.com provides an informative online tutorial about how to buy the right equipment.

Having access to a geocache Web site is crucial, and dozens of sites are available for those ready to download coordinates onto their GPS before heading out to search. Most sites offer free membership, and there are geocache sites dedicated to specific countries around the world for the globe-trotting geocacher.

"You need the Internet not only to search for local caches, but also so you can log in your visits and create your own geocaches," Dunigan said.

For tracking more difficult caches, Dunigan also suggested that a topographical map be brought along on the hunt, as GPS signal can sometimes be weak in certain areas.

Tales from a trailblazer

While geocaching might not result in treasure chests filled with gold, hidden caches still provide plenty of excitement and anticipation for those searching for them. Not only is this hide-and-seek hobby perfect for those who are interested in technology, it can also satisfy the desire to explore new places.

Walt Adams, an Idaho resident who has geocached around the globe, is always able to sate his need for travel and his geocaching hobby simultaneously.

"I have found 1,115 geocaches to date and not too many of them have gotten away," Adams said. "I have seen a lot of country and enjoyed a lot of local history."

Through his geocache journeys, Adams has discovered hidden caches in air raid bunkers and church cemeteries, as well as ones 20 feet underground in England and near the USS Arizona memorial in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii.

Tips from the experts

For those who are less than sure about their technological skills or don't have a clue how to find their first cache, experienced GPS users can prove to be the best source of knowledge on the subject.

"The best thing would be to find someone else who is already doing it to get an idea if it's really worth investing in," Dunigan said. Dunigan, who provides latitudes and longitudes for Tennessee landforms, said that an interest in historical places and technology is what drew him to the hobby.

Through his travels around the world, Adams has also amassed some helpful advice for those who might be interested in geocaching.

"Lots of geocaches are hidden in holes or under bridges, or in hollow logs. Snakes, spiders and sharp objects can be there too," Adams said. "I almost always wear a pair of leather gloves when I reach in to feel around."

Adams also emphasized that cachers should carry extra batteries and a flashlight. He also hinted that new cachers should allow for more time than they actually think it will take.

For some, geocaching can bring back memories of earning scouting patches in orienteering. But for others, it provides an excellent opportunity to enjoy the outdoors while becoming more versed in the ways of technology.