Taiwan launches one-tap GPS alert app for hikers

台灣推出一鍵式GPS提醒應用程式（APP），方便健行者使用

TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan’s National Park Service on Tuesday launched a mountain hiking check-in app that allows users to send their GPS coordinates via text message with one tap in an emergency, aiming to improve safety and streamline procedures for hikers.

The agency said the app integrates information from three high-altitude parks: Yushan National Park, Shei-Pa National Park, and Taroko National Park. It offers trail maps, digital entry permits, emergency alerts, and “I’m safe” notifications, according to CNA.

Hikers can check in and out by entering their national ID number and entry date, removing the need for paper forms. In emergencies, users can quickly text their coordinates to designated contacts to help rescuers narrow the search area.

Government data show 3,450 mountain-related accidents were recorded over the past decade, with getting lost the most common cause, accounting for 1,263 cases, or 37% of the total. Over the past five years, getting lost has remained the leading cause at 44%, according to podcast Hiking Therapy.

The National Park Service urged hikers to download the app and familiarize themselves with its functions before setting out. It also warned that cold temperatures at high elevations can drain phone batteries and advised carrying a power bank.