People with iPhones can now more easily navigate their way around Metro Vancouver's regional parks following release of Metro Vancouver's newest app.
The new app or smart phone application is called iParks Navigator and it is compatible with both iPhone and iPad.
It features regional parks where there is public access, which includes Deas Island and Boundary Bay.
Major enhancements over last year's iParks Explorer have been introduced, particularly with the mapping feature.
Navigator draws map data from Metro Vancouver's mapping database, enabling users to accurately locate their position or navigate along a trail.
It uses location services of the iPhone and provides directions to each park, whether you are cycling, driving or taking transit. With this new app, you can select a specific entrance to a park even though there may be more than one entrance.
Other features include video profiles of regional parks, improved photo galleries and a search function for finding a regional park based on a specific type of facility or by activity. There is also a calendar of events, park advisories and safety information.
"This product will really change the way people find and use our regional parks," said Gayle Martin, Metro Vancouver parks committee chair.
"It helps us reach our goal of getting 10 million annual visits to our regional parks and greenways by the end of 2012. It's like carrying a complete catalogue of park trail maps in your pocket. But unlike maps printed on paper, these are automatically updated when new trails are added."
At the moment, iParks Navigator is available only for iPhone and iPad. Future plans include a version designed to function on other devices.
iParks Navigator can be downloaded directly from the iTunes App Store for $2.99 plus HST. Visit iTunes and search for Metro Vancouver.
For more information, visit www.metrovancouver. org and search for iParks Navigator.
