Hiking is a great form of exercise. Being out on the trails allows you to decompress and appreciate the beauty that nature has to offer. No matter where you go, your eyes will be treated to stunning imagery created by beautiful plants, trees, and unique geological formations, and your ears will thank you for treating them to soothing bird songs and sounds of other wildlife communicating with one other as well as rustling leaves from trees or sounds of flowing water. It is very soothing and relaxing. Here are 7 apps that will help you get more out of your next outdoor adventure.

#1/ GOOGLE MAPS

Platforms: iOS/Android | Cost: Free

Sometimes it can be tricky to find the entrances to provincial parks or conservation areas. Especially if they are located in remote areas. Google Maps helps you stay on course as you navigate to your destination. Consider downloading maps for the areas you plan in visiting as cell signal may be weak or non-existent once outside of population centres. I always download maps for offline use and make note of gas stations and other notable landmarks along the way in the event I need fuel for my vehicle, need a bio break, or need water or food. Offline maps also come in handy in the event you get rerouted due to road closures caused by construction or other reasons. Here is a handy guide to help you download maps for offline use.

#2/ ALL TRAILS

Platforms: iOS/Android | Cost: Free/CAD $29.99 annually for the premium version

Discover trails near with All Trails. This is my go-to app to find new trails to check out. You can read user reviews of the trails, find trails near others points of interest, and get a sense of the trail’s level of difficulty. AllTrails is available for iOS and Android. I use it primarily as a research tool. I usually go hiking with my brother and dog. We are accustomed to hiking trails with hills, rugged terrain, and narrow paths. I use AllTrails to find more challenging paths for us to tackle. But if I am going on a day hike with my parents or friends who don’t hike as often as I do, I use AllTrails which are a little easier. It is also useful to discover notable points of interest along the trails. Helps me plan out where I want to go and take photos.

#3/ INATURALIST

Platforms: Web/iOS/Android | Cost: Free

iNaturalist is developed by the California Academy of Sciences and the National Geographic Society. Launched in 2008, iNaturalist brings together people to map and share biodiversity across the globe. iNaturalist can be accessed via its website or on mobile devices that run iOS or Android. Help identify trees, plants, and wildlife. Snap a photo with your phone and upload it to the iNaturalist where other members can help identify what you photographed. It is a great way to learn about nature around you. I use it on my daily walks with my dog Louie to identify plants and trees. One of our favourite podcasts is Completely Arbortrary, a show about trees, and it is has made us tree-obsessed. The app makes us feel like scientists.

#4/ AUBODON BIRD GUIDE APP

Platforms: iOS/Android | Cost: Free

I discovered this app from a tweet that Birds Canada shared. The Audobon Bird Guide App is a free and complete field guide to over 800 species of birds in North America. It helps you identify birds around you, keep track of birds you’ve seen, and discover new birds near you. The app features audio clips of bird calls and songs, a map of where specific birds can be found, and information about birds. I have been on a birding kick as of late and this app is very helpful. It makes birding more fun.

#5/ CANADA WEATHER APP

Platforms: iOS/Android | Cost: Free

Weather can change unexpectedly. It’s a good idea to check the weather before you leave the house and before you set off on your hike so you know what to expect along the way. This allows you an opportunity to ensure you are dressed properly and have the correct gear for a safe adventure. While there are several apps out there, the Canada Weather App is my go-to. It includes satellite images of weather systems, temperature readings, humidity, wind speeds, and other weather-related data to help you decide whether it is safe to set off or turn around and come back another day.

#6/ GAIA GPS

Platforms: iOS/Android | Cost: Free/CAD $44.25 annually for the premium version

Stay on track with GAIA GPS. The free version allows you to discover hiking trails nearby and help you stay on track as long as you have cell service. Upgrade to the premium version if you want the option to save maps for offline use. You can record you trips. It is a very helpful app for avid hikers of all levels.

#7/ SPYGLASS

Platforms: iOS/Android | Cost: Free / Premium features available for purchase

Think of Spyglass as your digital compass and GPS system. Use it to navigate through the woods in the event you get lost or as a rangefinder to determine how far you are from specific landmarks. It is a very handy tool when you are on the trails.