How to Create a Custom Cycling Route on Google Maps

Are you tired of following the same old cycling routes? Do you want to explore new paths and create your own adventures? Look no further! With Google Maps, you can easily create a custom cycling route that fits your preferences and interests. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just starting out, this guide will show you how to make a trail on Google Maps and plan your next cycling adventure. So grab your bike and let’s get started!

Getting Started

Why Create a Custom Cycling Route?

• Personalized cycling experience
  • Customizing your cycling route allows you to tailor your ride to your own preferences and interests. Whether you prefer a leisurely ride through scenic countryside or a challenging climb up a mountain, you can create a route that suits your needs.
• Avoiding busy roads and traffic
  • Cycling on busy roads can be dangerous and stressful. By creating a custom route, you can avoid busy roads and find quieter, safer routes that will enhance your cycling experience.
• Exploring new places
  • Cycling is a great way to explore new places and discover hidden gems. By creating a custom route, you can choose to cycle through areas you might not have otherwise visited, and discover new and interesting places along the way.

What You Need

• Google Maps app
• Smartphone or tablet
• Internet connection

To create a custom cycling route on Google Maps, you will need a few essential items. Firstly, you will need the Google Maps app, which can be downloaded from the App Store or Google Play Store. It is essential to have a smartphone or tablet to use the app, as it cannot be accessed through a desktop computer. Lastly, you will need an internet connection to access the app and its features.

Navigating Google Maps

Creating a New Map

When creating a custom cycling route on Google Maps, the first step is to navigate to the Google Maps app. Once the app is open, the user can tap on the “Create a new map” option, which will bring up a list of available map types. From there, the user can select “Cycling route” to start creating their custom route.

Adding Waypoints

To create a custom cycling route on Google Maps, you need to add waypoints to your route. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Open Google Maps on your mobile device and search for the starting point of your cycling route.
2. Tap on the three dots located at the top right corner of the screen to access the menu.
3. Tap on “Add waypoint” to start adding locations to your route.
4. Choose a location by tapping on the map at the desired location. You can also search for a specific location by using the search bar at the top of the screen.
5. Select the type of location you want to add. Google Maps offers a variety of options such as coffee shops, parks, and tourist attractions. You can also add custom waypoints by typing in the name of the location.
6. Add a description and notes for each waypoint. This can be useful for remembering why you added a particular location to your route or for noting any specific details about the location.
7. Once you have added all the waypoints to your route, tap on “Save” to save your custom cycling route.

By following these steps, you can easily create a custom cycling route on Google Maps that suits your preferences and interests.

Saving Your Route

When you’re done planning your custom cycling route on Google Maps, it’s important to save it for future reference or to share with others. Here’s how to do it:

1. Tap on “Save route”

Once you’ve finished creating your custom cycling route, you can save it by tapping on the “Save route” button in the top right corner of the screen. This will save your route for future reference and allow you to access it easily when you’re ready to ride.

1. Name your route

After tapping on “Save route,” you’ll be prompted to name your route. This will help you keep track of your different routes and make it easier to find the one you’re looking for later on. Be sure to choose a name that’s descriptive and easy to remember.

1. Share with others

If you want to share your custom cycling route with others, you can do so by tapping on the “Share” button after saving your route. This will allow you to share your route via email, text message, or social media, depending on your preference. You can also share your route with specific individuals by entering their contact information.

Customizing Your Route

Adjusting Route Settings

Google Maps offers a range of options to customize your cycling route, making it easier to plan a personalized ride that meets your preferences and requirements. Here are some steps to adjust your route settings:

Change start and end points

To adjust the start and end points of your route, simply drag the marker to the desired location on the map. You can also type in the address or name of a location in the search bar and Google Maps will automatically suggest options for you to choose from.

Adjust route distance and duration

To change the distance and duration of your route, click on the “Customize” button on the left-hand side of the screen. Here, you can enter the desired distance and duration of your ride, and Google Maps will adjust the route accordingly. You can also select from pre-set distance and duration options to quickly customize your route.

Select route preferences (e.g. avoid highways)

Google Maps allows you to choose specific route preferences to customize your ride. To do this, click on the “Customize” button and select the “Avoid” option. Here, you can choose to avoid certain types of roads or areas, such as highways, toll roads, or busy streets. You can also select other preferences, such as preferred bike lanes or scenic routes, to further customize your route.

Adding Rest Stops

Creating a custom cycling route on Google Maps is a convenient way to plan your bike ride, especially if you’re looking to explore new areas or create a personalized experience. One important aspect of customizing your route is adding rest stops. These rest stops can help you take breaks, refuel, and recharge during your ride. Here’s how to add rest stops to your custom cycling route on Google Maps:

1. Tap on “Add rest stop”
2. Choose a location
3. Add description and notes

To add a rest stop, simply tap on the “Add rest stop” option when you’re in the route customization mode. This will bring up a pop-up window where you can choose the location of your rest stop. You can either search for a specific location or manually enter the address.

Once you’ve selected the location, you can add a description and notes to help you remember what you need to do or bring during your rest stop. This could include things like grabbing a snack, refilling your water bottle, or taking a restroom break.

Adding rest stops to your custom cycling route on Google Maps can help you stay hydrated, energized, and comfortable during your ride. With these simple steps, you can easily customize your route and make sure you have everything you need for a safe and enjoyable cycling experience.

Refining Your Route

Adjust Route Direction and Order of Waypoints

One of the most crucial aspects of customizing your cycling route is the ability to adjust the direction of the route and the order of the waypoints. To do this, simply click on the directional arrow next to the waypoint, and drag it to the desired location. This allows you to create a route that fits your preferred direction of travel, and ensures that the waypoints are in the correct order for your journey.

Remove Unnecessary Waypoints

Another essential aspect of refining your route is the ability to remove unnecessary waypoints. If there are any waypoints that are not relevant to your journey, such as a restroom or a restaurant, you can simply click on the waypoint and select “Remove Waypoint” from the dropdown menu. This will remove the waypoint from the route, making it easier to follow and reducing the distance of the journey.

Save Changes

Once you have adjusted the direction of the route and removed any unnecessary waypoints, it’s important to save your changes. To do this, simply click on the “Save” button at the top of the screen. This will save your customized route, allowing you to access it later and make further adjustments if necessary.

Overall, refining your route is a crucial step in creating a custom cycling route on Google Maps. By adjusting the direction of the route and removing unnecessary waypoints, you can create a more efficient and enjoyable journey. And by saving your changes, you can ensure that your customized route is accessible for future use.

Following Your Route

Using Turn-by-Turn Directions

To make the most of your custom cycling route on Google Maps, it’s important to follow the turn-by-turn directions provided. Here’s how:

1. Open your saved route:
   • Once you have created your custom cycling route, save it for future use.
   • To access your saved route, open Google Maps on your computer or mobile device.
   • Click on the “Your Places” tab at the top of the screen.
   • Select “Saved” from the drop-down menu.
   • Find and click on the custom cycling route you wish to follow.
2. Follow turn-by-turn directions:
   • After selecting your saved route, Google Maps will display a list of waypoints along the route.
   • Click on the “Directions” button at the top of the screen.
   • Google Maps will provide turn-by-turn directions for the entire route.
   • The directions will be displayed on the map, with a blue line indicating the route and a blue dot showing your current location.
   • As you cycle, the app will update in real-time to show your progress along the route.
   • To see the next turn or waypoint, simply look for the upcoming blue line on the map.
   • The directions will also include the distance and estimated time remaining for each segment of the route.
   • Be sure to pay attention to the directions and stay alert for any upcoming turns or hazards.
3. Use GPS to stay on track:
   • In addition to the turn-by-turn directions, Google Maps will also use GPS to help you stay on track.
   • As you cycle, the app will track your location and display your progress along the route on the map.
   • If you deviate from the route, Google Maps will alert you and provide guidance to help you get back on track.
   • The GPS feature can be especially helpful when cycling in unfamiliar areas or when you need to navigate through busy urban centers.
   • By following the turn-by-turn directions and using the GPS feature, you can ensure that you stay on track and complete your custom cycling route successfully.

Staying Safe

Cycling is a great way to explore new areas and get some exercise at the same time. However, it’s important to stay safe while cycling, especially when creating a custom route on Google Maps. Here are some tips to help you stay safe while following your custom cycling route:

• Wear appropriate clothing and gear: It’s important to wear clothing that is comfortable and appropriate for cycling. This includes clothing that is breathable and moisture-wicking, as well as gloves and a helmet. It’s also a good idea to bring a spare tube and other basic tools in case of a flat tire.
• Follow traffic laws: Just like in a car, you must follow traffic laws when cycling. This includes stopping at stop signs and red lights, signaling when turning, and riding in the same direction as traffic. It’s also important to use hand signals to indicate your intentions to other road users.
• Carry a phone and emergency contact information: In case of an emergency, it’s important to have a phone with you to call for help. You should also carry emergency contact information, such as the number for your local emergency services or your insurance company. Additionally, consider downloading a cycling-specific app that can help you track your route and provide additional safety features, such as an emergency alert feature.

By following these safety tips, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable cycling experience while following your custom route on Google Maps.

Tips and Tricks

Using Google Maps Offline

If you’re planning a cycling trip in an area with limited or no internet connectivity, you can use Google Maps offline to navigate your route. Here’s how:

1. Download map areas for offline use: Open Google Maps on your computer or mobile device and navigate to the area where you want to create your custom cycling route. Click on the three dots in the top right corner of the screen and select “Download.” Choose the size of the map area you want to download and wait for the download to complete.
2. Use GPS to navigate without internet connection: Once you’ve downloaded the map area, you can use the GPS feature in Google Maps to navigate your route without an internet connection. Open Google Maps and start navigating your route as you normally would. When you lose internet connectivity, the app will automatically switch to GPS navigation.

By using Google Maps offline, you can avoid the hassle of relying on patchy internet connectivity and ensure that you always have access to your custom cycling route.

Exploring New Areas

Use Google Maps to discover new cycling routes

Google Maps is an invaluable tool for finding new cycling routes. It offers a wide range of options, including suggested routes, bike-friendly paths, and even off-road trails. To get started, simply open the Google Maps app and enter your location. From there, you can explore different routes and choose the one that best suits your needs.

Read reviews and tips from other cyclists

Another great way to discover new cycling routes is to read reviews and tips from other cyclists. Google Maps allows users to leave reviews and tips for different routes, which can provide valuable insights into the quality of the route, the difficulty level, and any potential hazards. Before embarking on a new route, be sure to read through the reviews and tips to ensure that you are fully prepared.

Share your own experiences with others

Finally, if you have discovered a great new cycling route, be sure to share your experiences with others. By leaving reviews and tips of your own, you can help other cyclists discover new and exciting routes. Additionally, by sharing your experiences on social media or with friends, you can help spread the word about the best cycling routes in your area.

FAQs

1. How do I create a custom cycling route on Google Maps?

To create a custom cycling route on Google Maps, follow these steps:
1. Open Google Maps on your computer or mobile device.
2. In the search bar, enter the starting point and destination of your cycling route.
3. Click on the bike icon in the search results to switch to the cycling directions.
4. Google Maps will automatically generate a suggested route. If you want to create a custom route, click on the “Edit” button in the top right corner of the screen.
5. Use the “Add stop” button to add points to your route. You can also drag and drop the route to change the order of the stops.
6. Once you have added all the stops to your route, click on the “Save” button to save your custom cycling route.

2. Can I add waypoints to my custom cycling route on Google Maps?

Yes, you can add waypoints to your custom cycling route on Google Maps. Waypoints are intermediate points on your route that are not the start or end point. To add a waypoint, simply click on the “Add stop” button and add a name for the waypoint. You can also drag and drop the waypoint to change its position on the route.

3. How do I customize the cycling route on Google Maps?

To customize your cycling route on Google Maps, you can use the options in the route planner. You can adjust the route type, avoid certain types of roads or areas, and add restrictions to the route. For example, you can choose to avoid busy roads or only travel on specific types of roads. You can also choose to optimize the route for time, distance, or traffic.

4. Can I share my custom cycling route on Google Maps with others?

Yes, you can share your custom cycling route on Google Maps with others. To do this, simply click on the “Share” button in the top right corner of the screen. You can then choose to share the route via email, text message, or social media. You can also share the link to the route with others so they can access it directly.

How to Make a Custom Route in Google Maps