Note: Note: Placing or burying an item or container on the refuge is prohibited.

We have created a way for you to use your gps units to explore the refuge.
Try out the Mystery Geocache- it used to be called Virtual Geocaching
but you really have to go outside and visit the refuge.

It blends nature with technology and can be done any time of year.

Mystery Geocaching is a high-tech scavenger hunt. It involves locating a specific landmark or feature on the refuge. It does not involve finding or leaving an item in a cache. This is a high-tech family friendly activity, using a hand-held Global Positiong System (GPS) unit to find a specific place on the refuge.
Print the clue sheet, answer the questions and turn it in at our office to get your
trinket. Here's what some geocasher's have to say about the Mystery Geocache:.

Photo by Anna Simmons

"Awesome string of caches. I NEVER would have ventured down to these areas marked pretty much only by a "boat ramp" sign because I don't have a boat. I found more than boat ramps - most spots had awesome paths, trails and viewing platforms. I even saw a muskrat at Riecks Lake Park." 3/26/07 Anna Simmons

1. Answer the questions on the clue sheet and if you want a reward, turn it in at the Winona District Office. Exploring the refuge may be all the reward you need.

2. Do not leave a cache - it is illegal!

1. Transportation.
2. GPS Unit - NAD 83.
3. Clues - Printed from this site
4. Pencil or pen to record your answers.
5. For fun, take pictures of yourself at the landmark - we'll put you on the website.

GPS coordinates are NAD 83. Clues help you discover a landmark, feature, or refuge sign. You will need to write down the answer to the questions provided on the clue sheet. Once you have found the 10 virtual geocaches you can turn in your clue sheet Winona District Office, 51 E. 4th Street, Room 203, Winona, MN.

The Log Book for the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge
Mystery Geocache coordinates is located at: N 44º 03.073´ W 091º 38.206´ along
with the reward.

For more information contact Cindy Samples (507) 494 6216.