With REI’s mobile apps, you’ll never run out of outdoor adventures

By Garrett Hulfish Updated December 12, 2016

Imagine that the sun is shining, the birds are chirping, and that there is absolutely no reason to be inside. It’s time to be adventurous. The problem is, you don’t know what to do or where to go. With the suite of REI mobile apps, however, the problem instead will be where not to go.

With REI’s recent acquisition of Adventure Projects, those looking to explore can use these apps to find the next best trail to hike, bike, or ski. The apps are composed largely of GPS-based trail guides, but they are sport-specific for easier access.

Let’s say you decide to go on a hike. With the Hiking Project App, you can get up-to-date trail maps from all around the country. Detailed information is available including GPS route info, elevation profiles, photos, and interactive maps. Trails can also be added or reviewed by fellow hikers.

These features make it into many other REI apps as well. Those who enjoy mountain biking should use the MTB Project app. Feel like climbing instead? The Mountain Project app will help you find the best local spots. If it’s cold and snowy, the Powder Project app can find you places to ski or snowboard on and off the slopes.

Typically, the downside to using a mobile app on a trail is the loss of service as you make your escape from the city. That’s why REI apps allow you to download trail maps ahead of time. Even without the use of GPS, you’ll have a clear map to turn to between trails.

In celebration of the National Park Service’s centennial, REI has also released the National Parks app. Here you can find crowd-sourced guides for all the best hikes. When you finish one, you can upload your own photos.

With all these new apps, REI wants to make your area the ultimate playground. You’re never far from a hidden trail, so it’s definitely worth checking out. All these apps are available free from Google Play and the App Store. Direct links are found at the REI website.

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Garrett Hulfish

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Garrett is the kind of guy who tells you about all the tech you haven't heard of yet. He also knows too much about other…

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