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How to create custom running and cycling routes on Garmin Connect

Garmin's route planner is one of its underrated features. Here's how to make the most of it.
By

Published onDecember 2, 2022

Creating an exciting and varied route is important for runners looking to challenge themselves or those who get bored quickly. Garmin lets you easily create new maps within the Garmin Connect app. Best of all, it’s a simple process that you can do through the Garmin Connect app. Here’s everything you need to know about creating new routes on Garmin.

QUICK ANSWER

Quickly create new routes in Garmin Connect by heading to the Training & Planning menu, selecting Courses, and tapping Create Course. From here, you can either outline your own course or ask Garmin to choose one for you based on the starting point and desired distance.

JUMP TO KEY SECTIONS


How to create a custom running route

Quickly create a running route around your area in a matter of minutes. Follow the steps below.

  • Open Garmin Connect app
  • Tap the three-line main menu button at the top left
  • Select Training & Planning > Courses > Create Course
  • Select Running or Trail Running from the course type list
  • Select a drawing method
    • You can opt for Automatic, which requires a distance and starting direction. Garmin Connect will then create a route based on these details and its Trendline Popularity Routing smarts
    • Alternatively, create a Custom map
      • Place the green starting point pin by panning and zooming in to a location
      • Place subsequent black pins to outline the following points
      • Continue this process until you’re happy with your route
  • Select Done or Save when you’re happy with your course

How to create a custom cycling route

If you’re a cyclist, you can also create routes using Garmin Connect. Here’s how to do just that.

  • Open Garmin Connect app
  • Tap the three-line main menu button at the top left
  • Select Training & Planning > Courses > Create Course
  • Select Road Cycling, Mountain Biking, or Gravel/Unpaved Cycling from the course type list
  • Select a drawing method
    • You can opt for Automatic, which requires a distance and starting direction. Garmin Connect will then create a route based on these details and its Trendline Popularity Routing smarts
    • Alternatively, create a Custom map
      • Place the green starting point pin by panning and zooming in to a location
      • Place subsequent black pins to outline the following points
      • Continue this process until you’re happy with your route
  • Select Done or Save when you’re happy with your course

Notably, Garmin can also create routes for Hiking and “Other” activities. Simply select one of these options instead on the course type page.


FAQs

Yes. Head back to the Courses option in the Training & Planning main menu dropdown. Select the course you want to move to your watch, tap the three-dot menu button, then select Send to Device.

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