It’s hard to get away and take time out for ourselves these days. And technology is usually to blame. But now your smartphone can help get you out into nature, away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Star gazing
Take advantage of a clear night and explore the skies above thanks to Google Sky Map. Using GPS, a compass, and the date and time, this app tells you whether that far off speck you’re observing is part of Orion’s belt, a planet in our solar system, or just a smudge on your glasses.

Tree ID
Get to know the trees around you with Audubon Trees. Turn your smartphone into a digital pocket-sized plant book with over 700 tree species at your fingertips. You can even browse by name, habitat, fruit or shape.

Take a hike
Record backpacking adventures and scope out hiking trails right on your smartphone. Use Backpacker GPS Trails Lite to find your position on maps, navigate with GPS and a digital compass, and log the paths you take. Best of all, it works without relying on data and cell phone signals.

Bird watching
Tap into iBird to satiate your curiosity about our fine-feathered friends. This e-book app comes complete with illustrations, photos, birdcalls and fun facts to help you identify the most popular birds in your area.

Flutter by
No need for pins and trays to hold your butterfly specimens if you have Butterfly Glossary. Digitally display various types of butterflies and learn about each species with descriptions of favored environment and special life-stage classifications.