Go Play Outdoors With 9 Cool Apps for Nature Lovers

Getting out and experiencing the beauty of Mother Nature means unplugging from our devices and leaving our smartphones behind. Or does it? With built-in compasses, GPS abilities and fabulous cameras, our smartphones are much more than just a way to connect with other people—it’s a way to take your outdoor adventures to the next level. So, load up these outdoor apps, turn off those pesky notifications and get outside!

Note: All apps are free and available on the App Store and Google Play unless otherwise noted.

Hit the trails

Make the most out of your hike by planning ahead.

Whether you’re an experienced hiker looking for the next big challenge or just getting started by exploring a few local trails, useful outdoor apps can help you find great hiking opportunities, learn more about the terrain and find new ways to enjoy the outdoors.

• AllTrails. Loaded with more than 50,000 trails around the globe, this app helps you find the perfect experience whether you’re looking for kid-friendly or dog-friendly hikes or even mountain bike trails. GPS technology allows you to follow along and interact with the trail as you go, and you can record your adventures to track them later.
• PeakVisor. One of the greatest things about reaching the top of a hike is enjoying the view. But have you ever wondered just what you’re looking at? PeakVisor uses your phone’s camera and location tracking device to recognize the names of mountain peaks and waterfalls in your view. Added bonus: It also measures elevation.
• Geocaching by Groundspeak. This app bills itself as the official geocaching app, with millions of treasures just waiting to be found. For beginners, the app has tips and instructions to walk you through your first time. It’s also great for experienced geocaching folks, offering the ability to log your adventures and share photos.

Get more out of nature

Download an app that helps you learn more about what you see on your hike.

Ditch those heavy trail guides and use your phone instead! The best outdoor apps make use of some of the great resources available on your smartphone to help you learn more about the world around you and impress your friends with your newfound knowledge.

• PictureThis. This app takes plant identification to the next level. Snap a picture of a flower, tree or other plant with your smartphone, and the app comes back to you with the plant’s name and a short description.
• Pest Identifier (App Store) or Insect Identification: PestPro (Google Play). Whether you want to know what just bit you or you’re curious about the colorful insect crawling across your path, these apps help you learn more about the creepy-crawly creatures who make their home in nature.
• SkyView Lite (App Store) or SkyView Free (Google Play). Take the mystery out of the night sky with this app, which not only helps identify stars, planets and constellations, but also provides information about what you’re seeing. The cool thing is you can enjoy the night even when it’s cloudy or you’re under the cover of trees, as this app uses augmented reality to show what’s in the sky where your camera points, rather than just showing the image your naked eye sees.

Be prepared for the weather

Keeping track of the forecast helps you make sure you have the gear you need.

The Boy Scout motto is never more appropriate than when experiencing the great outdoors. After all, no one enjoys getting drenched in a rainstorm while miles away from the car—or being stuck on an embankment in a kayak without a way to call for help. You’ll enjoy your outdoor adventures more if your smartphone is protected in a waterproof case and you bring along a portable charger so you’re always ready to capture images of a rare wildflower in bloom or document your great hike. In addition to protecting your phone, download Weather Live for detailed forecasts and severe weather alerts to help protect yourself and easily see what’s coming your way.

Ready to explore the outdoors? Find info about U.S. national parks and nearby hotels.