Amp up your smartphone's capabilities and download these nature-inspired apps! We've picked six of the best applications to help you make the most of your time outdoors.
For the trailblazer...
Check out INHF's app, Iowa by Trail! The app allows users to geo-locate their position and find the closest trail. Once on the pavement, the app helps you find points of interest along the route, communicate with friends about their trail experiences and keep track of distance, weather and more. The app is free and available from the App Store or Google Play.
For the know-it-all...
Stay in the loop with the National Audubon Society's field guide apps. Each guide centers around a particular subject--think North American Owls, Butterflies or Mushrooms--and allows the user to identify species and learn more about a specific category of creatures. A few of the apps are free, but the rest are either $4.99 from the App Store or $3.99 from Google Play.
For the wildlife enthusiast...
Project Noah lets you document the wildlife you find while exploring the outdoors. The app’s field guide feature also lets you see wildlife spotted nearby. Share your own encounters while contributing to a database of sighted species. Download for free on the App Store.
For those looking for a new adventure...
Oh, Ranger! ParkFinder helps outdoor lovers find the nearest parks. The app lists the recreational activities available at each site, and allows users to search for specific ones. From National Parks to Wildlife Refuges, this app includes the most comprehensive database of public land in America. Find it for free on the App Store and Google Play.
For the cyclist who can't wait until July...
Most of the RAGBRAI App's features won't kick off until ride week, but this app is the go-to guide for any enthusiast. Check overnight town information, get the weather forecast or see how far along you are on the route. Upload photos along the way to share your ride experience with others. The app is free on the App Store and Google Play.
For the observant explorer...
Visiting a National Wildlife Refuge? You can utilize this resource to find the best places to view wildlife and enjoy the refuge. New sites are added to the app every day. Find it for free on the App Store.
