“Cache” in on DC’s transit network
Many geocaches in DC are small containers like this "bison tube," photographed here by the Cleveland Park metro station (disclaimer: no actual geocache locations are revealed by the placement of this photo!). Image by the author.
People love to talk about the “hidden gems” of Washington, DC. Everyone has a restaurant that they swear by that didn’t make Washingtonian’s top places to eat list or a museum that’s a little farther from the National Mall. But if you want to talk about gems of DC that are well and truly gems, talk about geocaches.
Geocaching is the hobby known as “the world’s largest treasure hunt.” Participants have hidden millions of small containers around the world, and geocachers use an app or a GPS to track them down to sign their name on the log within. There are hundreds of geocaches in the Washington region that are worth finding. And as a hobby that takes you out of the house and to new places every single time, I recommend embracing geocaching by public transit.
Try something new
Even daily users of public transit are probably victims of routine. If your commute to work involves a bus or a train, by now you’ve probably found the optimal trip and stuck to it ever since. Same for regular trips to the store or a friend’s place.
Geocaching is the perfect excuse to try a new direction, line, or mode of transit. Hop on the Metro to the end of the line and start your search from there. Grab a Capital Bikeshare and pedal to a new part of town. Just in the mood for a walk? There are hosts of caches available from parks and trails like the Anacostia Waterfront Trail or the Tregaron Conservancy.
Test the limits
DC has a robust transit system and is a more pedestrian-friendly city than many places in the US, but geocaching will push the boundaries of where you can get by bus, bike or train.
Exploring the geocaches hidden in the National Arboretum by biking through its fields and gardens? Great! Biking along Bladensburg Road to get there? Not so great. The caches scattered above Lincoln Park just aren’t close to a Metro stop. And need I say more about trying to get to the cache in the heart of Georgetown’s campus?
Get started
To begin, you’ll need the Geocaching app and a free account. (You can upgrade to a premium account for $40 a year to unlock more features and available caches, but it’s always best to try a basic account first to make sure you’re interested. All the caches on this list are accessible with a free account.)
Then grab a pen to sign and date the logs you visit, pocket your SmarTrip card or load up the SmarTrip app, and you’re off!
by RogueIII
The Anacostia Riverwalk Trail leads right up to Kingman and Heritage Islands, which feature several caches between them. There’s more trails on the islands that are perfect for a quick hike or walking your dog, with unique views of the river and RFK Stadium. Heading west after your visit? Hop on the DC Streetcar, which has one terminus just above the island.
by Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
When you see where in the city this cache is located, it’s no surprise that it’s one of the most-logged traditional caches not just in the District, but in the whole country. It’s definitely the place to kick off a day on the Mall or at the Smithsonian. Plus, there are three Metro stops within a half mile.
P.S.: Geocaching has a spin-off app, Adventure Labs, that hosts a series of tours and virtual treasure quests. There are some great Adventures in DC, and if you’re looking for a new way to visit the monuments or museums, checking out the ones on the mall is a great place to start.
DC Hidden Murals #19: 73 Cents
by caisulli and exmachina
Just one entry in a popular series of caches that highlight underrated murals in the District, I found the art here to be especially powerful. The L2 or M4 bus will get you there.
by Zensekai and unusualsuspect
Small parks and oases, like this duck pond, make much-needed spots for recreation and relaxation. Enjoy the small waterfront at the pond, then the more lively waterfront at the Wharf, then catch a train from the Waterfront Metro station.
Marvin Gaye Trail - Trail Ranger - Geocache
by DCTrailranger
The X9 bus spans crosstown over a wide swath of the District and can drop you right on the doorstep of this cache. Be sure to read the description of this cache; it’s got great info on nearby art, community centers, and trails.
Whenever you’re geocaching, treat the places and people you visit with respect. Don’t get too discouraged when you can’t make a find. And make sure that even when you’re digging through a bush or peeking behind a signpost, you’re keeping your eyes open to take in everything that makes Washington, DC, great.