TECH BYTE: Apps for Exploring National Parks

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) — It’s finally starting to feel like spring!

And with great weather means we’re spending more time outside.

Smartphone apps can help you with exploring the great outdoors.

Just in time for National Park Week, Google Maps is out with an update that’ll make you want to explore one of the 400 plus national parks across the country.

The update includes new features, making it easier for you to navigate each park.

The app gives you directions if you’re up for taking on trail routes, whether you’re on foot or a bike.

And if you don’t have Internet access – don’t worry!

Google Maps will still let you download a park map, so you won’t get lost on your adventure.

The update also helps you quickly see each park’s must-do attractions, so you won’t have any trouble spotting the visitors center or campground at each stop.

And speaking of the National Park Service, it has its own app worth downloading.

With the NPS app, you won’t need to track down a park ranger to ask questions.

Everything you need to know about each national park is right at your fingertips.

After all, it was developed by park rangers.

The app also has interactive maps, park tours, amenities, and things to do.

It will still work offline, as well.

To celebrate National Park Week, the Park Service is waiving entrance fees to all of its parks on Saturday, April 22.

NPS also encourages posting about your visit on social media using the hashtag, #MyParkStory.