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GPS wayfinding to debut here

Starting this summer, visitors will be virtually guided around the park with a new hand-held GPS device programmed for Grand Canyon.

The National Park Service, Grand Canyon Association and FUNfinder Inc. have reached an agreement to supply visitors with the system, which provides an interactive and easy way to navigate through the Village area.

"The Grand Canyon Association is very pleased to work with FUNfinder GPS to develop an interactive visitor device which will provide basic orientation and information to park visitors," said Brad Wallis, executive director of the Grand Canyon Association.Ê "To us, this is the first step into a future that will involve much more technology in the development of an enhanced visitor experience."

FUNfinder GPS is a patent-pending GPS device that is venue-based, with a site-specific interface and information.

"We are extremely excited to have our initial FUNfinder GPS launch at the Grand Canyon," said Rich Chanick, president of FUNfinder, Inc.Ê "The Grand Canyon is a national treasure and a huge vacation destination, and it will serve as a great venue to showcase all of the elements of this new technology."

The technology works with orbiting satellites and therefore requires no towers or infrastructure to be placed in the park. The devices will function when the user is in the car or exploring by foot, and will not only help to navigate throughout the numerous sights and hiking trails at the Grand Canyon, but also will provide other logistical information, including locations of restrooms, lodging, shops, and concessions. FUNfinder GPS also will provide locations and routes to medical, fire and park security facilities, as well as pointing out handicap-accessible routes for those people with mobility challenges.

The units will be available here beginning June 22 and can be rented for under $12 at the National Geographic IMAX Visitor Center and at various locations inside the park.

For more information on FUNfinder, visit www.funfindergps.com


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