The Midwest Open Geocaching Adventure (MOGA) is back and bigger than ever in 2025. Set to take place from March 28th to March 30th in Abilene, Kansas, this annual event promises to attract geocachers from across the country. Celebrating 25 years since the inception of this modern treasure hunt, MOGA 2025 will be marked by a variety of events inviting both seasoned and novice geocachers to participate.
MOGA is celebrated as one of the largest geocaching events in America. This year, it emphasizes its roots with competitions focusing on orienteering skills using GPS devices to hunt for geocaches [1]. Participants will navigate through a series of challenges designed to test their ability to find hidden caches using precise geolocation technology.
Returning to the heart of geocaching, this year's MOGA strips back on elaborate programs to focus on core geocaching competitions. This decision harkens back to the event's original mission when it was founded in 2004. Ryan Semmel, the event coordinator, is excited for the refocused approach, inviting newcomers to experience the joy of discovering unexpected places through geocaching.
The visit to Abilene, Kansas is more than just a competition; it's a tour into the city's rich history. The Abilene Convention and Visitors Bureau will launch a geotour dubbed "Visit Abilene Geotour," highlighting diverse local landmarks and attractions. This initiative aligns with MOGA's mission, showcasing how geocaching encourages tourism and exploration beyond traditional routes.
One of the event highlights will be the puzzle competition. This activity challenges geocachers to solve intricate puzzles that reveal coordinates for hidden caches, combining mental agility with geolocation skills. The competitive spirit, paired with camaraderie among fellow enthusiasts, makes MOGA a notable event each year [1].
To complement the geocaching activities, the event will include social activities like a trivia contest, a raffle, and even a poker run, rich with Abilene's unique charm. Semmel notes, "Geocaching brings people together. It offers a mix of physical activity, mental challenge, and social engagement."
For those interested in joining, MOGA provides an accessible entry point into the world of geocaching. The event carries no entry fee, making it open to all. Despite the lack of an admission fee, individual competition entries carry a nominal charge [1].
The anticipation is palpable as geocachers prepare for a weekend of discovery and fun, celebrating a significant milestone in the geocaching community. For the uninitiated, MOGA 2025 offers a unique opportunity to join a thriving community engaged in a quest that extends beyond geographical boundaries.
References:
1. Abilene Reflector-Chronicle: MOGA geocaching event coming to Abilene
