http://app.gobreadcrumbs.com/user/trekitnowcom/hiking/north-shore/the-grouse-grind

@Traci thanks for all those suggestions! I suppose the GPS and hike combination can be a tricky one since trails are typically remote. I’ve been quite satisfied with some of your other products (especially MapMyRun). I love that you guys are always looking to improve your product and I hope this feedback helps!

Looking forward to the next hiking season so I can try everyone’s suggestions!

Thanks for trying out our app! We are continually trying to improve our products and appreciate your input.

I do have a couple of suggestions for the issues you experienced – if you’re working with an iPhone, it’s recommended that you make sure you’re updated to both the latest iOS and latest version of our app. Additionally, for battery, Sherry is correct – if you lock your screen while the app runs in the background, it’ll use less battery. You may also want to turn off Wi-Fi if it’s running and use it on 3G or E, depending on your location and service. Please be sure that you have a strong GPS signal while you hike, otherwise, you will run the risk of having an incomplete workout. If you plan to do longer hikes, or other time-consuming activities like a marathon or century ride, we generally recommend investing in a battery pack for your phone, just in case.

If I can answer any questions for you or be of further assistance, please let me know! traci.mazurek @ mapmyfitness dot com

When I did it, it was in full summer (so congrats on the late fall weather trek), but it was lucky for me then to have done it. I wore an ill-broken-in pair of shoes, so about a third of the way up, I took them off, and discovered the true joy and advantage of hiking barefoot. It has been 14 years since that experience, but should I make it to Vancouver again, I will revisit the Grind. I have since hiked barefoot – and I’m a tenderfoot – which is best for trails with both soil, large rocks, and an inclination. It regulates your speed and makes more use of your agility.

Great review on this app – it’s great to be able to monitor your progress. It’s a lot more practical than hoping you’ll pass someone on their way back down and asking them how much further it is to the top. And a lot of apps that feature GPS tracking are power hungry!

Here’s another one you might be interested in – Guardian Trace (www.guardiantrace.com). It’s pretty new. I use it when I go for runs and take the dog for walks. It doesn’t drain my battery and I don’t have to tell my husband “If I’m not back in an hour, come looking for me.”