Mount Arrowsmith - the imposing basalt mountain which stands as the highest point on southern Vancouver Island - isn鈥檛 just one of the region鈥檚 most recognizable landmarks, it鈥檚 also one of its most jaw-dropping.
Part of a 1,300-hectare regional park and a UNESCO Biosphere Region, this stunning area is crammed full of natural beauty. From alpine meadows that are awash with flowers to the kaleidoscope of creatures that call the mountain home, it truly is one of the jewels in the island鈥檚 crown.
As a result, Mount Arrowsmith and the surrounding area has long been a destination for hikers, mountain bikers and weekend enthusiasts to explore. But now an innovative new game is inspiring people to enjoy this idyllic environment like never before.
A game unlike any other
In association with听 Mount Arrowsmith Biosphere Region has turned its world-class natural attractions into an interactive outdoor game that鈥檚 fun for all the family.
For the uninitiated Geocaching is a real-world outdoor treasure hunting game where players use either a smartphone app or GPS to find cleverly hidden containers known as 鈥榞eocaches,鈥� then share their experiences online.
Dubbed 鈥渢he world鈥檚 largest treasure hunt鈥� it鈥檚 one of the fastest growing hobbies in the world with millions of people switching on to the fun, a friendly activity that鈥檚 getting people off their couches and on their feet.
How it works
According to Geocaching.com, which has been the de-facto hub of the game ever since 2000, geocaching is 鈥渁 simple outdoor adventure whereby participants use a GPS or a free mobile app to find cleverly hidden containers around the world.鈥�
Once you鈥檝e located the caches, which can vary in size from a storage container to a jewellery box, you鈥檒l find a log book to record your discovery and treasure in the form of a small trinket. In the case of the Official Mount Arrowsmith Biosphere Region Amazing Places Geotour that trinket is a one-of-a-kind GeoCoin, a memorable keepsake that participants can remember their unforgettable adventure by.
Mount Arrowsmith Biosphere Region has also developed a GeoTour Field Guide to help you through your own adventure. Crammed full of helpful tips, interesting information, instructions and maps - it contains everything you need to complete the tour and claim your prize. Best of all the Field Guide is free to download, or just $10 for those looking to take home their own hard copy.
Why it鈥檚 so fun
Part of the reason why Geocaching has seen a surge in popularity is its simplicity. There鈥檚 no expensive equipment needed, instead, all you need is a sense of adventure and a fully charged smartphone.
It鈥檚 also a fantastic way to get out and explore the very real treasures that the world has to offer, whether you鈥檙e a solo traveller, a couple, or a family; you can get out and experience the region in a whole new light.
As well as excitement and adventure, you also get to learn more about the world around you, uncover hidden sights and even get active as you excitedly hunt for your next geocache.
Most importantly, as part of the experience, players will get a chance to see some of the natural wonders that make Mount Arrowsmith Biosphere Region so magical. From the incredible old-growth Douglas firs at Cathedral Grove to the magnificent waters of Englishman River Falls and sandy low tide at Rathtrevor Beach, it鈥檚 an inspiring adventure and a unique way to experience the area.
What鈥檚 stopping you?
Mount Arrowsmith Biosphere Region's Amazing Place GeoTour is a great way to soak in everything the island has to offer, but to really experience it in its entirety you need to spread the adventure over a weekend, or longer.
With its world-class beaches, stunning natural beauty, an abundance of local artisans, great dining options and accommodation, Parksville Qualicum Beach is the perfect base from which to launch your own Geocaching adventure.
But, while technology will be key to helping you on your own interactive treasure hunt, it鈥檚 the offline connections that you can expect to live long in the memory. With its small-town community and laidback vibe, Parksville Qualicum Beach will help you strengthen the connections that matter the most, helping you to reconnect, rediscover and recharge all at the same time.
痴颈蝉颈迟听听to find out how you can kickstart your own Amazing Places GeoTour or check out听听to plan your stay.
