Updated on April 8, 2023
There are a few ways that you can create a cycling route using Google Maps. One way is to simply type in your starting point and destination, and Google Maps will provide you with the best route. You can also use Google Maps to plan out bike routes ahead of time by dragging and dropping pins on the map to mark your start and end points.
Another great way to use Google Maps for cycling is by using the ” bicycle” layer. To enable this layer, open up Google Maps and click on “More”, then select “Transport”. Under the “Bicycling” section, you’ll be able to see all of the bike routes in your area. You can also use this layer to see elevation changes, so you can plan your route accordingly.
If you’re looking for a more detailed map of bike trails, you can try searching for “bike map” in Google Maps. This will bring up a variety of different maps that show different bike trails around the world. You can also use this search method to find specific bike trails in your area.
Begin by Opening Google Maps
Answer: Opening Google Maps is as simple as clicking on the Google Maps app, which is located on the home screen of your device. If you don’t have the app, you can download it for free from the App Store or Google Play.
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Once you have the app, open it and sign in to your account. You can either use your current location or enter a destination in the search bar. Once you have a location entered, click on the “Directions” icon.
Choose Your Starting Point
Once you have Google Maps open and ready, navigate to the large search box. Enter in wherever it is that your bike route will start from (for example home or garage).
This step ensures we are able create a looping cycling itinerary starting at our desired location; if not already done so enter this first before pressing “ Next Step: Start riding!”.
Start Riding!
The next step is to hit the start button, which can be found in the lower right-hand corner of your screen. Once started, Google Maps will track where you are going and provide verbal directions as needed.
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If you need to make any changes to your route or come to a stop, you can easily do so by tapping on the pause button located next to the start button.
Choose An Online Tool
Nowadays we rely on technology and devices for navigation, but there’s nothing better than being outdoors by bike! Luckily with all these amazing mapping apps available now you can go exploring without ever leaving your phone. Here I’ve listed some of my favorites: Strava (for tracking workouts), Komoot app(to find other cyclists nearby) Google Maps or Bikemap plotaroute map – which one works best will depend entirely upon what type/brand GPS device or smartphone you’re using.
If you have a Garmin device: connect to your computer, open Garmin Connect, and then select “Courses” from the menu on the left. Here you can either create a new course or search for an existing one. Once you’ve found the perfect route, simply send it to your device.
If you have a Wahoo device: open the app, select “New Ride”, and then choose “Create Route”. Use the map to trace out your route, and then give it a name and save it. Once you’re ready to ride, just select the route from the list and hit start.
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If you have a smartphone: there are a few different apps you can use, but my personal favorite is MapMyRide. Once you’ve created an account, just select “Create Workout”, and then “Ride”. Use the map to plot your route, and then give it a name and save it. Whenever you’re ready to ride, just open the app and select your route from the list.
Ride Until You Reach Your Destination
When you are getting close to your destination, Google Maps will give you a heads up and provide directions on how to finish your route.
And that’s it! You’ve now learned how to create a cycling route using Google Maps. Whether you’re looking for the best route or planning out a bike trail ahead of time, Google Maps is a great tool to use. So get out there and start exploring the world on two wheels!
Austin Jacobs is a passionate cycling enthusiast who has over five years of experience in bike repair and maintenance. He is an avid mountain biker and loves tinkering with bikes for hours on end to make sure they are running at their optimum performance level. Leland’s blog, which focuses on bike repairs and tips to keep them in good running order, was created out of a desire to share his knowledge and help fellow cyclists stay safe while enjoying the outdoors. He covers topics such as preventive maintenance, troubleshooting common issues, basic tools and supplies needed for repairs, and more.
