What is a Gadget Cache?

Gadget caches are geocaches that are extremely creative and usually requires the finder to figure out some sort of physical puzzle to get to the log. They are highly innovative and employ high-tech, low-tech, and no-tech methods to challenge cachers in their quest for another cache find. Although slow to catch on in the geocaching community, Gadget caches have gone mainstream and their popularity has increased by leaps and bounds.

List of Gadget Caches

So you might be thinking, “What does a gadget cache look like?”. They can come in any shape or size but most gadget caches are similar to slightly large bird houses. At first glance there will seem to be no log in sight and no visible means of opening the container. This is where the fun begins! Often there will be markings, holes, tools, or instructions on the outside of the container to steer the finder to their goal. One cache that this writer has come upon required the finder to pull AA batteries out of their handheld GPS receiver to operate a small motor that lowered the log out of the bottom of the container. Another used mirrors and lights to systematically reveal the code to the combination lock securing the log. These caches are built to challenge your deep thinking skills but they are not impossible. Keep an open mind, don’t assume anything, and stick with it.

WVTim is one of the most famous geocache hiders with gadget caches in his arsenal. A few years ago, GeoWoodstock XIII was held near his caching territory and thousands of geocachers were introduced to quality gadget caches. There is even a GeoTour designed around some of his amazing creations! View them here. WVTim has some of the most favorited caches in the world, so be sure to check them out.

If you are looking to spice up your caching life a bit or just exercise brain cells that have been dormant for a long time, give a few gadget caches a try. You’ll be glad you did!