Getting Started with PeakTrail
Your complete guide to setting up PeakTrail and tracking your first activity
Launch PeakTrail
Open PeakTrail on your mobile device. The app will load and display the main interface.
Location Permission
PeakTrail needs your location to track your activities accurately.
- GPS tracking for accurate distance and route recording
- Map display of your activity path
- Elevation data for terrain analysis
- Calculate pace and speed metrics
Your GPS data is stored locally on your device and is not shared with third parties. PeakTrail respects your privacy.
Ready to Record
Once PeakTrail has loaded and has your location, you're ready to start recording!
Key Interface Elements
- Floating Action Button (FAB) — The circular button at the bottom right to start/stop recording
- Map View — Shows your current location and activity path
- Status Bar — Recording status, duration, pace, and distance
- Bottom Navigation — Access Map, Routes, History, and Profile screens
Your First Recording
- Start Recording: Tap the floating action button
- Wait for GPS: Ensure you have a clear GPS signal (green indicator)
- Move: Start your activity — PeakTrail will track your path
- Pause if Needed: Tap the pause button to take breaks
- Stop Recording: Tap the stop button when done
- Save: Review your activity and save it to your history
Tips for First-Time Users
Outdoor Activities
- Run outdoors for best GPS accuracy
- Wait 10-30 seconds for GPS to acquire your position
- Check signal strength: Green = good, Yellow = weak, Red = no signal
- Stay on main paths to avoid GPS loss in tunnels or canyons
Testing the App
- Start a short 1-2 minute walk
- Watch the map trace your path in real-time
- Check the stats updating (distance, pace, time)
- Stop and review the recorded activity
- Verify it appears in your History
Common First Questions
GPS needs time to acquire your location. Move to an open area and wait 10-30 seconds.
Look for the green GPS indicator at the top of the screen.
PeakTrail requires GPS for accurate tracking. It won't record well indoors or in underground locations.
PeakTrail will pause automatically when signal is lost and resume when it returns.
What's Next?
Once you've recorded your first activity, you can:
- View Your History — Access the History tab to see all your activities
- Analyze Stats — Check splits, pace charts, and elevation profiles
- Create Routes — Plan routes in the Routes tab
- Customize Settings — Visit your Profile to adjust preferences
- Export Data — Export activities in GPX format for sharing
Need Help?
Visit our Support page or access the feedback form in your Profile settings if you encounter any issues.