Running Route Planner & Distance Calculator
Plan Running Routes on a Map
Use the running route planner to map your next run and calculate distance, pace, and elevation gain. Simply click on the map to create a running route and see the total distance in miles or kilometers. Whether you're planning a 5K, 10K, half marathon, or marathon training run, this tool helps you design routes with accurate distance measurement and elevation analysis.
How to Plan a Running Route
1. Set Your Starting Point on the Map
How do I set my starting point? You can search for an exact address, city, point of interest, or use your current location. You can also zoom directly on the map to where you want to run and easily find nearby parking spots to start your run.
Explorer
2. Set a Time or Distance Limit
Only have 30 minutes to run or want to limit your distance? Enter your maximum time or distance and see how far you can run. The green zone shows your reachable area based on your pace and elevation.
3. Map Your Running Route and Measure Distance
I have my trailhead set, how do I draw my running route on the map? Click or tap once to set your start point, then add waypoints. The route will follow paths suitable for running. You can undo your last point or return to the start via the shortest path. Prefer miles instead of kilometers? Just change the unit in the header and everything will update instantly.
Choose the Best Map for Running
Use different map types such as outdoor maps, satellite view, OpenTopoMap, or OpenCycleMap to better plan your running route.
Export Your Route as GPX, KML, or FIT
Export your route as GPX, KML, or FIT files and import it to your GPS devices like Garmin, Apple Watch, Suunto, Polar, Wahoo, Coros, or Samsung. Analyze additional data like heart rate for deeper insights.
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Follow Your Run in Real Time on the Map
Track your real-time position and orientation directly on the map using Explorer mode. Stay on your route, navigate easily, and never get lost during your activity.
What our Explorer users say
I planned a 5-mile running loop around my neighborhood in minutes. The distance and pace estimate were spot on for my morning run before work.
With the isochrone mode, I plan my hikes in no time! I instantly see how far I can go with my available time. GPS tracking keeps me on trail in the Rockies.
We prepared a 25-mile cycling loop with friends and exported the GPX track. Everyone followed the same route on their Garmin without getting lost. Perfect organization!
Before a hike in Shenandoah, I checked the elevation and duration. The route followed real trails, which saved me from unpleasant surprises. Very reliable!
I wanted an easy walk for my kids. I set a short max distance and MapPlanner helped me create the perfect loop. We had a wonderful family afternoon.
I love planning my outings in advance. I saved several routes for the weekends. It saves me so much time compared to figuring it out on the go.
By exploring the routes around my area, I discovered great trails I didn’t know about. MapPlanner opened new places for me to explore right in my backyard.
I keep track of my progress with the history feature. Comparing my running pace and distance over the months keeps me motivated and accountable.
For our MTB group ride, we created the route and sent the GPX to everyone. Nobody got separated — the whole group stayed together from start to finish.
I love taking photos while hiking. MapPlanner automatically places my pictures on the map. It’s awesome to review the route and share it with friends.
Depending on the activity, I switch the map style: topo for the mountains, street for the city, satellite to scout terrain. It makes route planning super intuitive.
MapPlanner now estimates my times based on my own pace. I know exactly how long my next run will take. Perfect for squeezing in a workout on a tight schedule.
Want to Use All of MapPlanner's Features?
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the free and paid versions?
The free version allows you to draw, view and export routes but with limitations. The paid “Explorer” version adds:
- advanced maps (satellite, topographic, USGS, etc.)
- more complete tools for drawing and planning routes (reachable distance, ...)
- additional features depending on your subscription
- no usage limits
What does the “Explorer” subscription include?
The Explorer subscription gives you access to all premium features: unlimited reachable zones, real-time GPS tracking, premium maps, unlimited 3D views, advanced GPX export and much more.
Can I get a refund for my “Explorer” subscription?
You can request a refund within 30 days after the initial purchase by contacting our support team.