Create a running route
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.
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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.
Generate a Loop Running Route
No route in mind? Set a target distance or time and let the planner generate a loop running route that starts and finishes at your chosen point, following runner-friendly roads and paths. Don't like it? Generate a new loop in one click until it fits your run.
Edit and fine-tune your route
Drag the line to reroute your run, insert a point with a click, or draw freehand and snap to runner-friendly paths. Reverse it, make it an out-and-back, undo any change, and nudge a point with the arrow keys.
Add stops and points of interest
Add numbered stops along your run and drop points of interest with photos. Let the planner suggest water points and parking near your route.
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Replay your route in 3D
Watch an immersive 3D fly-over of your running route, following the relief. Replay it any time and share a link that plays automatically.
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 as GPX, TCX or KML and Sync Your Devices
Export your run as GPX or TCX and load it straight onto your Garmin, Apple Watch, COROS, Suunto, Polar or Wahoo for turn-by-turn guidance on your wrist.
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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.
Plan your runs — the right distance, every time
Whether you're chasing a 5K, a long run or a quick loop from your door, MapPlanner helps you build the perfect running route in seconds. Set a distance, generate a loop, and know your pace and elevation before you lace up.
- Draw your run on the map or auto-generate a loop for an exact distance
- See your pace, split times and estimated finish before you head out
- Favour quiet streets, parks and trails, away from traffic
- Check elevation gain to plan flat runs or hill sessions
- Save your favourite loops and start again in one tap
- Export to GPX for your running watch
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
How far did I run, walk or cycle?
Draw your route on the map and the distance calculator adds up every segment instantly, in kilometres or miles. Move a point to adjust and the total updates live.
How long does it take to walk a mile?
At an average pace of about 3 mph, walking a mile takes roughly 15 to 20 minutes — so 5 miles is about 1h15 to 1h40. Draw your route on the map to get the exact walking time for any distance.
How long does it take to run 5K?
Running a 5K takes about 25 to 35 minutes at a moderate pace, depending on your speed. Draw your route on the map to estimate your time and pace for any distance.
Can I view and import a GPX file?
Yes. Import any GPX, KML or FIT file to view your route on the map, see its distance and elevation profile, edit it and export it again — a free online GPX viewer and editor.
How do I measure the distance between two points on a map?
Click your starting point, then each point along the way. MapPlanner follows the roads and paths and shows the exact distance between them.
Is the map distance calculator free?
Yes. Measuring distance, elevation gain and duration on the map is free and unlimited, with no account required.
Explore routes by destination
Discover community routes near you and get inspired.