Instructions cover Google Maps on the desktop and the Google Maps mobile app for iOS and Android.

Pick a starting location.

Take note on what the map presents to you.

Starting location for Google Maps, search term Anchorage Museum

Lifewire

Tochoose an alternate route, grab the one from the map that you’d rather use.

The route(s) include the distance and estimated cycling time.

In the destination panel is a comment on whether the route is flat.

Destination for Google Maps, search term The Writer’s Block Bookstore & Cafe

Lifewire

It’s especially handy for locating bike lanes and trails you weren’t aware of in your neighborhood.

Begin with Google Maps open and with nothing entered into the search field.

ChooseBicyclingfrom that menu to bring up a map marked up specifically for cyclists.

The bicycling directions button in Google Maps

Lifewire

If you want to see bicycling directions using this map view, return to the steps listed above.

You may be offered several suggested bike routes.

From there, choose the route as usual, confident that you have a bike-friendly path identified.

Alternate route in Google Maps for bicycling directions

Lifewire

The idea here is to look closely at the Google Maps suggestions for your cycling route.

Personalize the route for you and how you want to reach your destination.

Also, think about where you might park your bike.

Menu button in upper left corner of Google Maps

Lifewire

Google Maps doesn’t include that information.

Bicycling menu item in Google Maps

Lifewire

Bicycling key in Google Maps

Lifewire

Three iOS screens showing Directions, Bicycle, and Start buttons in Google Maps

Lifewire