While many runners simply head out the door to their favorite neighborhood routes, serious milers often have to do some planning. If you’re training for a half, 10K or marathon, your training plan requires runs of different lengths over a few months or weeks. In order to make sure you’re hitting those targets, it’s helpful to map out your runs. And several apps and tools that create routes—a.k.a. run mappers—can help you check off those mileage goals.
You don’t need to be following a training plan to gain benefits from a run mapper app, though. These tools also offer a great way to discover new trails, plan vacation runs, and keep track of your favorite routes. Plus, we’ve included a few reminders on how to make your specially-designed running routes as safe as possible.
6 Top Run Mapping Tools and Apps
1. Google Maps
One of the simplest ways to plan a running route is to enter both your starting point and your destination on Google Maps. Once those are in place on the map, you can drag the cursor around and Google will show the number of miles in the route, as well as turn-by-turn details. You can even do this if the start and end point are the place, such as your house. It’s much easier to use Google Maps on your desktop than on your phone. Then, once you’ve planned your route, you can send the directions to your smartphone.
2. Strava
Not only is Strava a great activity tracker, you can also use it to create routes before you head out the door. For monthly subscribers who have access to the app’s advanced features, the route planning allows you to set preferences such as distance, trails or roads, more or less elevation, high or low levels of foot traffic, and more. Then, you’ll get suggestions for nearby running paths that closely fit what you’re looking for, or have the option to make your own “from scratch.” Before you know it, you might be advanced enough to make cool Strava art!
3. AllTrails
Perfect for the running route planners who prefer dirt to pavement, AllTrails presents plenty of possibilities for new off-road routes to explore. It’s as simple as entering your city or a local park in the search bar and scrolling through the possibilities. Each trail listed includes photos, descriptions of length and difficulty, ratings, and comments, and helpful tips from other users.
For more of a “choose your own adventure” option, AllTrails has the functionality to allow you to create your own route with detailed how-to instructions.
4. On The Go Map
On The Go Map is the simplest run mapping tool you’ll ever use. Type in your starting point on the website and click your way to your next route.
The best part of On The Go Map is the different “snap” settings. When set to “run,” the app will automatically snap your route to the best roads and trails for running instead of accidentally sending you along high-traffic areas or highways.
5. MapMyRun
MapMyRun, which is part of Under Armour, pairs with UA Connected footwear. These running shoes have a sensor chip inside that connects to MapMyRun. After you run, you can check back into the app later to see the distance, cadence, and other data, which means you can run device-free, but still track your run.
Even without connected shoes, though, MapMyRun is a helpful resources to runners. The site has a library of running routes from around the world. You can use it to find trails and roads for runs of any length, both near your house and far away.
6. Garmin Connect
Runners who have a Garmin watch that is compatible with the brand’s “Courses” feature are able to create custom running routes on their computer or the Garmin app. Garmin allows users to either draw out their path freehand on the map, or have a course generated based on popular streets and trails frequented by other runners. You also have the option of saving a previously recorded activity as a new route—so if you enjoyed last week’s meandering run on quiet back roads, you’re able to file that route away for future use.
Some advanced watches from Garmin even make your route planning easier. The Garmin Forerunner 945 displays color maps featuring popular routes found in the Garmin Connect app, providing turn-by-turn directions right on your wrist.
Safety Tips for Mapping Out Your Route
It’s always a good idea to think ahead and consider the safety of your surroundings—especially if you plan to run alone or when it’s dark outside and if you’re in a new-to-you area. Use this checklist as a guide when mapping out your next route:
✓ Not too lonely: Sure, it’s nice to have the trail all to yourself, but the old “safety in numbers” saying applies here—when you stick to paths where other people are out and about, you’re far less likely to be the victim of a crime. Plus, you’ll have help close by in case of an accident or injury.
✓ Lighted paths: Choosing well-lit areas to run, especially when it’s getting darker, not only helps you avoid tripping on an uneven surface or colliding with unseen objects, but also it limits hiding places for would-be attackers. It’s also just plain smart to wear a good headlamp if the visibility may be limited.
✓ Positive reviews: Sometimes you’re better off avoiding the road less traveled. If the area or trail you’ve opted to run has received ratings from other runners, pay attention to what people say—negative comments, particularly ones that point out potential dangers, should prompt you to reconsider your route.
Paige Triola
Contributing Writer
Paige Triola is a freelance writer based in Boulder, Colorado, who covers a range of topics in the athletic and outdoor recreation sphere. She spends much of her time cruising the trails on foot or by bike, testing out the newest gear designed for playing outside. Paige has written articles and product roundups for a variety of publications including Runner’s World, Bicycling Magazine, Gear Junkie, and Trail Runner Magazine.
