What is a Field Puzzle?
Field puzzles require geocachers to visit one or more locations to gather information needed to solve the puzzle. This could involve counting objects, reading plaques, observing patterns, or collecting data that feeds into a formula to calculate the final coordinates.
These puzzles combine the mental challenge of puzzle solving with the physical adventure of exploring locations, making them popular among geocachers who enjoy an active challenge.
Key Characteristics
- Location-dependent: Requires a physical visit to gather puzzle data
- Observable data: Information comes from plaques, signs, monuments, or countable objects
- Formula-based: Collected values are typically plugged into a coordinate formula
- Educational: Often teaches about local history, nature, or landmarks
Common Techniques
Counting
Count specific objects at a location — fence posts, windows, steps, trees, or any other countable feature. The count becomes a variable in the coordinate formula.
Plaque Reading
Extract dates, numbers, or specific words from memorial plaques, information boards, or historical markers.
Pattern Observation
Identify patterns in architecture, landscape features, or arrangements that encode numbers or directions.
Multi-Stage Collection
Visit multiple waypoints, collecting one piece of information at each, then combine everything to calculate the final location.
Example Field Puzzle
Cache description excerpt:
"Visit the war memorial at the posted coordinates. Find the dedication plaque and note the following:"
- A = The last digit of the year the memorial was erected
- B = The number of names listed on the north face
- C = The word value of the first name on the plaque (A=1, B=2...)
Final: N 51° 30.ABC W 000° 12.CBA
What makes this work:
- Clear instructions on what to look for
- Stable data that won't change over time
- Posted coordinates lead directly to the information source
- Formula is straightforward to apply
Tips for Creating Field Puzzles
- 1Use stable data: Avoid things that might change — temporary signs, seasonal decorations, or features that could be removed.
- 2Be specific: "Count the windows on the east face" is better than "count the windows."
- 3Consider accessibility: Ensure the field location is publicly accessible and safe to visit.
- 4Provide backup: Include photos or notes in your cache maintenance file in case the field data source changes.
- 5Test the formula: Double-check your math. A small error means frustrated geocachers searching the wrong location.
Recommended Tools
Coordinate Converter
Convert between coordinate formats
Word Value Calculator
Calculate letter values (A=1, B=2)
A1Z26 Converter
Convert between letters and numbers
Roman Numerals
Convert Roman numerals to digits
Coordinate Projection
Project waypoints by bearing/distance
Checksum Calculator
Calculate digital roots and checksums