GEOCACHING

Harrietville's mountain trails, scenic bushland and pristine waterways are full of hidden treasures – quite literally. With more than 150 geocaches hidden in the village and its surrounds, geochaching is one of the most fun ways to explore the foothills of the Victorian Alps.

DISCOVER HARRIETVILLE ON A TREASURE HUNT

Step into a whole new world; a world of hidden treasures that's always been around you, but you've likely never seen.

Geocaching is a grassroots global treasure hunt, where other geocachers hide 'treasures' for you to find using coordinates and clues. The phenomenon is a great way to add a little excitement to your walk and it's a good opportunity to learn a bit about the history of the area too.

There are about 150 geocaches within a 16km radius of Harrietville, with more extending up into Mount Hotham. To find them, you'll need to set up a free geocaching account and download the app to your phone. From here you can search the caches around you, select one to find, view the coordinates and clues and set off on your adventure. But beware, geocaching is highly addictive. Now go get 'em tiger.

PREPARE FOR ANYTHING

From snow to bushfires, floods and gale-force winds, the weather in the High Country can be fierce and change rapidly. Always check conditions before venturing out, ensure your equipment is working and carry adequate food, water and warm clothing. Importantly, download the VicEmergency and the Emergency Plus apps to your phone.

Notify someone of your plans before you set out. Many parts of the High Country have poor or no mobile phone coverage. Emergency beacons and satellite devices are recommended for your safety.

LEAVE NO TRACE

Our region is sensitive to human presence. We are privileged to have endangered animals such as platypus, pygmy possums and alpine dingoes surviving in our environment. Your behaviour has a direct impact on our flora and fauna. When driving or riding, stay on formed roads and don't cut new lines. Protect our wildlife and the beauty of our environment by taking all rubbish with you.

Never light a fire on a Total Fire Ban day. When permitted to use fire, always extinguish your campfire completely before you leave. Enjoy our outdoors, and remember, leave no trace.