The Gulf Islands National Park Reserve (GINPR) is launching a new app this month to give park users the ability to have a self-guided tour of Sidney Spit.
The Explora Trail App, which will feature points of interest in the park, works on GPS points which pop up on a mobile device as the user is walking the trail systems on the Spit.
“You can download the app before you head to the park from the app store or Google Play and as you walk the trail information will pop up on your device including maps, photos, information and fun quizzes that will ensure you have a memorable, informative and fun visit,” said Francine Burnett, a Promotions Officer with GINPR.
The Peninsula News Review got a first hand look at the application last week,
It takes users through the trails in the parks and points out things like an eagles nest which may not have otherwise been noticed. The app prompts users to explore under the tree where the nest is situated to see what types of prey the eagles have been snacking on. Discoveries included a heron skull, a fish skeleton, a Cormorant skeleton and a seagull wing.
Further along the trail other points of interest are pointed out including the location of the old brick factory and an example of the damage the Fallow Deer do on the small island.
“The app is the perfect travel companion for the whole family,” said Burnett.
“It offers a variety of levels of interaction from viewing historical photos and maps to listening to cool sounds or participating in quizzes.”
To date, GINPR has completed two apps — the one for Sidney Spit and another for Winter Cove on Saturna Island. Burnett said work is currently underway to complete more Explora apps for more parks within the reserve in the next two years.
Recently, Fort Rodd Hill started using the Explora App (in this park, users are given handheld devices to use in the park as the app isn’t available for download yet) as well as Pacific Rim National Park Reserve who just launched their mobile app for Android or iOS last week.
For more information on the Explora Trail App visit the park website at www.parkscanada.gc.ca/gulfislands, call the office at 250-654-4000 (toll free at 1-866-944-1744) or visit the GINPR on Facebook (facebook.com/GulfIslandsNPR) or on Twitter (@GulfIslandsNPR).
reporter@peninsulanewsreview.com