How to avoid highways on google maps?

By HotBotUpdated: July 31, 2024

Google Maps is an indispensable tool for many travelers, offering comprehensive route planning and real-time traffic updates. However, there are times when you might want to avoid highways for a more scenic route, to avoid tolls, or simply to enjoy a more relaxed drive. Here’s a detailed guide on how to avoid highways using Google Maps.

Accessing Google Maps

To begin, you need to access Google Maps either through the web browser on your computer or via the mobile app on your smartphone.

Using the Web Browser

1. Open your web browser and go to Google Maps.
2. Sign in to your Google account for a more personalized experience, though this is optional.
3. Enter your starting point and destination in the search bar.

Using the Mobile App

1. Open the Google Maps app on your smartphone.
2. Sign in to your Google account if you haven't already.
3. Enter your starting location and destination in the search bar.

Setting Route Options

Once you have your route set up, you can now configure Google Maps to avoid highways.

On the Web

1. After entering your locations, click on the "Directions" button.
2. Click on "Options" next to the route information under the search bar.
3. In the dropdown menu, check the box labeled "Avoid highways."
4. Google Maps will now recalculate the route to avoid highways, and you can proceed with your journey.

On the Mobile App

1. After entering your locations, tap on the "Directions" button.
2. Tap the three vertical dots in the top-right corner to open the menu.
3. Select "Route options" from the menu.
4. Toggle the switch next to "Avoid highways."
5. Google Maps will recalculate your route to avoid highways, and you can commence your trip.

Additional Route Customization

In addition to avoiding highways, Google Maps offers other route customization options to enhance your journey.

Avoiding Tolls

If you also wish to avoid tolls, follow these steps:

1. In the "Route options" menu, toggle the switch next to "Avoid tolls."
2. Google Maps will recalculate the route to avoid both highways and tolls.

Avoiding Ferries

In some areas, ferry routes may be included in the navigation. To avoid them:

1. In the "Route options" menu, toggle the switch next to "Avoid ferries."
2. Your route will be recalculated to avoid highways, tolls, and ferries.

Using Waypoints

Waypoints can be used to further customize your route, ensuring it follows your desired path.

Adding Waypoints on the Web

1. After setting your starting point and destination, click on the "+" symbol next to the search bar to add a waypoint.
2. Enter the location of the waypoint.
3. Google Maps will incorporate this waypoint into your route, potentially offering an alternative path that avoids highways.

Adding Waypoints on the Mobile App

1. After setting your starting point and destination, tap "⋮" (three dots) and select "Add stop."
2. Enter the location of the waypoint.
3. Google Maps will integrate this waypoint into your route.

Advanced Tips and Tricks

For those seeking to maximize their Google Maps experience, here are some advanced tips and tricks:

Using the "Explore" Feature

1. Open Google Maps and tap on the "Explore" tab at the bottom of the screen.
2. Browse through recommended places and routes, which often include scenic drives that avoid highways.

Local Guides and User Reviews

Google Maps features user-generated content, including reviews and photos of various routes. Use these to discover lesser-known paths:

1. Search for your destination and click on it.
2. Scroll down to read reviews and see photos, which can provide insights into avoiding highways.

Offline Maps

For those traveling to areas with poor internet connectivity, downloading offline maps can be invaluable:

1. Open Google Maps and navigate to the area you wish to download.
2. Tap on the menu (three horizontal lines) and select "Offline maps."
3. Tap "Select your own map" and adjust the area to be downloaded.
4. Once downloaded, you can still access your customized route, including options to avoid highways.

Alternative Navigation Apps

While Google Maps is robust, other navigation apps might offer different features that could better suit your needs:

Waze

An excellent alternative to Google Maps, Waze is community-driven and provides real-time traffic updates:

1. Download and open the Waze app.
2. Enter your starting point and destination.
3. Go to "Settings" > "Navigation" and toggle "Avoid highways."

Apple Maps

If you are an iOS user, Apple Maps is another viable option:

1. Open Apple Maps and enter your starting point and destination.
2. Tap on the route card at the bottom of the screen.
3. Toggle "Avoid Highways" under the "Driving Options."

With these comprehensive tips and strategies, you have numerous ways to customize your route on Google Maps to avoid highways. Whether you are seeking a more scenic drive, avoiding tolls, or simply looking for a quieter route, Google Maps provides the tools needed to tailor your journey. By exploring these options and leveraging the additional features offered, you can enhance your travel experience and discover new routes that align with your preferences.

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