Mount Arrowsmith - the imposing basalt mountain which stands as the highest point on southern Vancouver Island - isn’t just one of the region’s most recognizable landmarks, it’s 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’s 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 Geocaching.com Mount Arrowsmith Biosphere Region has turned its world-class natural attractions into an interactive outdoor game that’s 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 ‘geocaches,’ then share their experiences online.
Dubbed “the world’s largest treasure hunt” it’s one of the fastest growing hobbies in the world with millions of people switching on to the fun, a friendly activity that’s 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 “a simple outdoor adventure whereby participants use a GPS or a free mobile app to find cleverly hidden containers around the world.”
Once you’ve located the caches, which can vary in size from a storage container to a jewellery box, you’ll 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’s so fun
Part of the reason why Geocaching has seen a surge in popularity is its simplicity. There’s no expensive equipment needed, instead, all you need is a sense of adventure and a fully charged smartphone.
It’s also a fantastic way to get out and explore the very real treasures that the world has to offer, whether you’re 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’s an inspiring adventure and a unique way to experience the area.
What’s 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’s 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.
Visit http://www.mabr.ca/geocaching/ to find out how you can kickstart your own Amazing Places GeoTour or check out https://www.visitparksvillequalicumbeach.com/ to plan your stay.
