PassionBy4.2/ProjectDescription.md

Hiking Helper

Making hiking accessable

As someone who enjoys hiking I've utilized some of the apps that help you to find places nearby to hike, and I've noticed a void in the current trail finding maps for maps that account for varying levels of ability and access. I'd like to create an app that can filter trails to match an individuals circumstances to make hiking more accessible for everyone. For example an individual in a wheel chair may only look for paved trails; an individual without a car may want trails within the range of public transit, or an individual with young children may require restroom facilities and a parking lot. The secondary function of my app would be a forum or portal where people could connect over trails they have a shared interest in and make plans to help eachother hike those trails. The help they provide eachother could be as simple as motivation and companionship or more serious such as offering a ride for someone without one, or being an addition set of eyes for someone with vision imparment.

I feel very strongly that everyone benifits from moving in nature, and I don't think anyone should be barred from that opportunity because they aren't a steriotypical "outdoors" type. I hope this app could help get everyone hiking!

Click here for the article I read two years ago that got me thinking about this app idea!

• Margaret Pierse