What is the best running route planner?

Best Running Route Planners for an Enriching Running Experience

As a runner, finding the perfect route that aligns with your preferences and challenges your abilities is crucial. Here are some top-rated running route planners that can help you explore diverse paths and enhance your training:

Strava:

• Intuitive Route Builder: Strava’s robust route builder allows you to create customized running routes with ease.
• Detailed Maps: Get access to detailed maps with elevation profiles, heatmaps, and surface conditions to plan informed runs.
• Community-Generated Routes: Explore and share running routes recommended by the Strava community.

Komoot:

• Cycling-Oriented Planner: While primarily designed for cycling, Komoot’s route planner is also suitable for runners.
• Off-Road Adventures: Discover hidden trails, gravel paths, and challenging climbs for a more adventurous running experience.
• Voice Navigation: Receive turn-by-turn voice navigation to stay on track even on unfamiliar routes.

Garmin Connect:

• Personalized Routes: Garmin Connect analyzes your activity data to suggest routes that match your running style and goals.
• Route Sharing: Easily share and download routes with other Garmin Connect users.
• Performance Metrics: Track your performance metrics, including pace, distance, and elevation gain.

Footpath:

• Urban Running: Footpath specializes in finding running routes in urban areas, considering obstacles such as traffic and congestion.
• Pedestrian-Friendly Paths: Discover safe and accessible running paths along sidewalks, parks, and bike lanes.
• Public Transit Integration: Plan running routes that connect to public transportation, making it convenient to run from work or home.

AllTrails:

• Nature Enthusiasts’ Haven: AllTrails offers a vast collection of running routes in parks, trails, and natural areas for those who love running amidst nature.
• Detailed Trail Descriptions: Get detailed descriptions of trails, including terrain, elevation gain, and scenic highlights.
• Community Reviews: Read reviews from other runners to make informed decisions about trail difficulty and conditions.

MapMyRun:

• Wide Range of Routes: MapMyRun provides a comprehensive database of running routes, from urban streets to scenic trails.
• Customization Options: Customize routes by distance, elevation, surface type, and more to suit your needs.
• Audio Coaching: Access audio-based coaching sessions to guide you through your run.

PlotARoute:

• Advanced Route Creation: PlotARoute offers advanced features for precise route planning, such as importing GPX files and manually adjusting route points.
• Terrain Optimization: Optimize routes for specific terrain preferences, such as flat, hilly, or off-road.
• Sharing and Exporting: Share and export routes in various formats for easy sharing with others.

Choosing the right running route planner depends on your specific preferences and the type of running you enjoy. Whether you’re an urban runner, a trail enthusiast, or someone looking for personalized route recommendations, there’s a route planner out there that can cater to your needs and take your running experience to the next level.