Create Your Perfect Hiking Route with Apple Maps Today

Explore the Outdoors: Creating Custom Routes on Apple Maps with iOS 18

As the weather warms and summer approaches, outdoor adventures beckon. Hiking is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in nature and get some exercise simultaneously. With the release of iOS 18, Apple has made it easier than ever to navigate the great outdoors with improvements in its Maps app, allowing you to create custom routes for hiking, walking, or running right from your iPhone.

Why Custom Routes Matter

Planning a custom hiking route can transform your outdoor experience. Not only does it help you stay on track and avoid getting lost, but it also provides critical information, such as the distance of your hike and elevation changes throughout your route. For those in elevated areas, like Denver, the elevation details can be particularly useful. With these improvements, the Apple Maps app is your essential hiking companion.

Step-by-Step Guide to Creating Your Custom Route

Ready to get started? Here’s how to create your own custom route using Apple Maps on your iPhone:

1. Open the Maps App

Launch the Maps app on your iPhone.

2. Drop a Pin

Long press on the map where you want your route to begin, which will drop a pin at that location.

3. Access the Menu

Tap on More to reveal additional options.

4. Create Your Route

Select Create a Custom Route from the menu.

Now, start plotting your route! You can tap on various intersections or landmarks like parks or eateries as waypoints along your path. Maps helps navigate the terrain as you plan.

5. Make Adjustments

Want to venture miles away from your starting point? That’s perfectly fine! You can tap any location on the map, and Maps will construct an appropriate route that adheres to real-world pathways rather than a straight line.

6. Choose Your Route Type

While creating your route, you can opt for one of three route formats:

• Reverse: Flips your route so that the end is your starting point.
• Out & Back: Maps a linear path where you start and finish at the same location.
• Close Loop: Forms a circular route that returns to your starting position.

7. Save Your Creation

Once you’re satisfied with your custom route, tap Save. You’ll need to name your route before tapping Done—this downloads your route to your device, ensuring you can access it even without reception in the wilderness.

Accessing Your Saved Route

Want to revisit your custom route later? It’s easy to find:

1. Open the Maps App

Launch Maps on your device again.

2. Navigate to Routes

Tap Places, Guides and Routes located beneath the search bar.

3. Select Your Route

Tap on Routes to see all your saved routes.

4. Get Directions

After selecting the route you want to take, Maps will display it on your screen. If you’re nearby, click Go for step-by-step navigation; if you’re further away, tap Directions to find your way to the starting point.

Final Thoughts

Creating custom hiking routes on Apple Maps with iOS 18 is not just a convenience it enhances your outdoor experience and ensures you stay on course while exploring. So grab your iPhone, plan your next adventure, and enjoy the splendors of nature!

Now, get ready to hit the trails and discover all that awaits you outdoors!