JAY — A French Falls trail tour and geocaching contest will be held at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 10, at the French Falls Recreation Area.

Sponsored by the Jay Recreation Committee and Androscoggin Land Trust, the event offers the public an opportunity to explore French Falls Park and find geocaches placed throughout trail network.

Located across the street from Spruce Mountain Middle School and behind the Knights of Columbus Hall, the property is owned by the Androscoggin Land Trust. The town of Jay has a lease on the softball field and parking areas.

Much work has been done to reinvigorate and improve the property, including renovated and expanded walking trails, access to the Androscoggin River, and Park & Ride access to the Whistle Stop Trail.

For the geocaching contest, participants will be given coordinates to a set of geocaches. Each cache will contain a clue to solve a puzzle. Successful participants will find all the caches and solve the puzzle.

GPS units will be available through the Regional School Unit 73 21st Century After School Program but participants can bring their own. GPS-enabled cellphones can also be used. 

The Spruce Mountain High School Envirothon Team will provide instruction on how to use GPS units and the science behind the technology.

The public is welcome and no prior registration is needed. Participants are encouraged to dress for walking trails, and insect repellent is recommended.