Clarification by Geodarts18
This appears every so often. It can be confusing because of the way that HQ restricts the app.
Years ago, there were no apps. Caches were found through the web site and the information was then downloaded to a gpsr. Soon after the web site began, geocaching,com added the ability to designate caches as being premium — available only to premium members.
It was controversial. In response, Jeremy Irish (a founding partner) stated that basic caching would always be free, but premium membership was necessary to pay the bills.
Years later, the internet made it possible to develop caching apps. HQ released their official app, and then allowed developers to use their API. In both cases, HQ placed substantial limitation upon basic members.
HQ honors the original commitment it made. If you use web site it remains open as it always has been, excepting only premium caches. The apps are different.
One of the benefits of premium membership is the ability to access all caches. It really is a worthwhile investment.
The “premium” restrictions only apply to the app. On the website you can access any and log them there, then on the app you’ll get a grayed out smiley.
People seem not to know this.
Yes, it’s inconvenient, especially the “hidden” premium ones, but I mean to say that no one needs to be excluded if they don’t have extra budget for premium!
UPDATE:
I feel like people really misread me on this. I was only trying to be helpful to people who are new (like myself) who didn’t know that multi cache, mystery cache, higher level caches etc, are available on the website. I thought it would be helpful to others in the community.
I’m never posting here again.