West Des Moines Trail System: Yes, There's an App for That

A news release from West Des Moines Parks and Recreation:

The City of West Des Moines Parks and Recreation Department has launched an interactive mobile app designed to help users get acquainted with, and encourage exploration of the city’s trail system. The app provides a comprehensive view of the entire trails system within the borders of West Des Moines.

Developed in conjunction with Shift Interactive, a West Des Moines-based company, city officials are optimistic about the benefits that this app will bring to users of the West Des Moines trail system.

“This is taking our system maps and truly making them interactive with our trail users,” says Parks Superintendent, Sally Ortgies.

In addition to being able to show a user their location on any West Des Moines trail, the app also provides interesting facts about a specific trail, encourages input from users through a news post function, provides weather conditions in the area, and promotes points of interest around the trails.

The app also tracks users’ miles, alerts users of upcoming events, and provides “Push” messaging from the Parks and Recreation Department.

 “If you’ve ever been on a trail, and wanted to learn more about where you are, this app will tell you everything you need to know,” says Chris Burns, with Shift Interactive. “It is simply a ‘must-have’ for any West Des Moines trail enthusiast,” he adds.

The app is already available in the Apple App Store, and is available free of charge to any iPhone user.

“The initial release is only supported by iOS, but we already have an Android version in the works,” explains Burns. Additionally, a second version of the app is already in development, and will offer additional features including social media integration, and a function called MyTrails, which will keep track of users’ favorite routes.

Users can download the free app from the Apple App Store by searching for “WDM Trails.” For more information, contact The City of West Des Moines at (515) 222-3444.