Intrepid is the spirit of geocaching, and few caches portray this better than GC4TM62, “Base-A Port Lockroy.” Our Geocache of the Week brings us to the farthest reaches of our globe: Antarctica. A largely untouched and inhospitable expanse, it takes a certain disposition to survive (and geocache) here. Do you have what it takes? Pack your snow boots and parka and find out!
After countless hours on the open sea, the horizon yields something new—sharp, rugged, snow-capped mountains rise from the frigid water before you. As your crewmates rush to the bow for a better glimpse, you sit back and ponder the mission ahead. You can see Wiencke Island, just off the Antarctic Peninsula, and in its shadow the smaller isle known as Goudier. On Goudier Island lies your destination: Port Lockroy.
A glance at the cache page, created by kripau, tells you everything you need to know about this fascinating location:
- Discovered in 1904, Port Lockroy is a natural harbor
- Originally used for whaling, the port became a British outpost during World War II
- The namesake of this geocache, Base A, was constructed as a result and was used as a research facility until 1962
- Today, Base A is a museum and post office operated by the United Kingdom Antarctic Heritage Trust
In addition, the geocache description includes tactics you’ll use to claim the find. Since the environment produces extreme wind and colossal snowfall, the cache was granted special permission to reside indoors. Can you imagine the amount of “needs maintenance” logs otherwise? Jokes aside, sleuthing required for this smiley is minimal, and if you get stumped, you are allowed to ask the post office staff for assistance.
Regardless, finding GC4TM62 is no small feat. Its terrain rating is an apt 3.5, as you might need to brave some inclement weather and avoid slipping on ice. Not to mention the ferocious flightless birds that guard the island! Okay, they’re cuter than they are ferocious, but caution is still advised.
When you first step foot on Goudier Island, take pleasure in the fact you’re experiencing a new continent. Excitement grows as you trudge your way through the elements—to both find the geocache and enjoy some warmth. Finally, you arrive at the doorstep of Base A and make your way inside. After greeting the staff, you find this cabin contains plenty of artifacts and relics. Much of the museum is preserved, offering you a look into the life of a 1960s Antarctic researcher. Once you tour the exhibits, it’s time to begin the hunt for the geocache. You’re looking for a yellow box filled with unimaginable treasure—and the logbook! Once in-hand, ink your name among those of other brave explorers, and reseal the cache.
After a long day of adventure, you may not realize the day is over; depending on when you visit, the sun might never set! Similarly, you could find yourself in eternal darkness. Don’t lose track of time—you’re a long way from home and wouldn’t want to miss the voyage back! After you retreat to the safety of your vessel, sit back, relax, and log your experience online. As of December 2022, only 194 geocachers have claimed the find on GC4TM62—that’s an elite club you just joined! So relish in today’s glory, and get ready for what tomorrow brings.
Continue to explore some of the most amazing geocaches around the world. Check out all of the Geocaches of the Week on the Geocaching blog. If you would like to nominate a Geocache of the Week, fill out this form.
Source: Geocaching