Whether you’re in an unfamiliar place or broadening your horizons in your hometown, there are plenty of tools online to customize different walk, run, and bike routes wherever you are. The online tools we’ll highlight here are not all created equal, so let’s take a look at the best free options depending on what you’re looking for in a map.
The following options all have solid reviews and, most importantly, are either free or have free versions that can get the job done. For all of these, I recommend using the desktop version over the mobile app, at least at first; I find it’s a lot easier to drag and drop different points on your paths using a mousepad versus your touchscreen.
How to map a bike route with Google maps
You’re probably well-acquainted with Google Maps, even if you haven’t taken advantage of the ability to customize a bike or running route. Here’s how to map a bike route on Google Maps:
1. Click on the direction icon. Make sure you’ve selected either the walking or cycling icon.
2. Choose the starting location and destination. Since you’re probably creating a loop, click the plus sign to add the starting location again as a third stop.
3. Maps will show you the fastest, most direct path to your destination and back. Drag the blue lines to customize the loop according to your desired distance and target the places you want to pass through.
4. Once you’re ready, click on the option to send the directions to your phone.
Once on your phone, tap the profile icon in Google Maps and then select Offline maps. Next, tap Set your own map and you’ll see a zoomed out map of the place you’re in. All you need to do is move the blue rectangle over the area you intend to visit and then tap Download.
With Google Maps, you can safely rely on the accuracy of the route and all its features (time, distance, elevation). However, once you get used to the interface of sites that are specifically for planning bike routes, it’ll become obvious that Google Maps isn’t focused on route-building. Still, if you don’t want to try anything new or unfamiliar, you can’t go wrong with Google Maps.
For a no-frills experience: Onthegomap
I’m partial to onthegomap. It’s straightforward and easy-to-use. Build a route by simply clicking on the map to create a point on your route, and then drag, drop, and delete as needed. It’s faster than Google Maps, but with far less information (like traffic reports or detailed terrain profiles) compared to the options below.
For tons of customization tools: Plotaroute
If you love to dig into the details, Plotaroute.com has an extensive range of route-editing tools. You can create a route from scratch, or combine and split existing one, or even use the magic “make me a route” feature in a given area. The menu along the side of the map is full of icons for plotting detours, repeating loops, shifting to different sides of the road, and way more.
After designing your route, you can inspect the terrain and see numbered directions for following the route (which I now realize is an extremely underrated feature across all these sites). Plotaroute is free, although you do need to sign up for an account to get all these customization tools.
For your off-road adventures: Komoot
If you’re serious about your biking or trail running, Komoot is your best bet for sport-specific routing. It has inch-by-inch surface and way-type analysis, but what really makes this best for outdoors-y adventures is all of Komoot’s pre-built routes. Filtered by distance, difficulty and public transport links, the routes already in Komoot are like easier-to-use versions of the trail maps that you might find at the entrance of most parks.
For the best crowdsourced data: BikeMaps.org
BikeMaps.org is like Waze for cyclists. The website and app are crowdsourced tools that local cyclists can use to map their trouble spots while riding, including crashes, near-misses, hazards, and thefts.
The interface is aesthetically appealing, although very sensitive to your trackpad zooming in and out. The major drawback of BikeMaps: This site seems to be most popular in Canada, so your experience will depend on how many fellow cyclists are uploading data in your area.
For the socialite: Strava
Hear me out. I know that the route-building feature moved behind a paywall a few years back, but still, I’d be remiss not to mention Strava at all.
For now: If you’re an avid Strava user who misses the route-builder, then in your list of past activities, you can still click “save to my routes” to re-use it on future activities.
You can’t go wrong with any of the options above. Some people geek out about inch-by-inch elevation profiles, while others just want to drop three points on a map and use the first loop they create. My final tip is to always make sure you’ve downloaded an offline version of your map, or even better, written out back-up directions on a slip of paper. Better safe than sorry.
CHICAGO (AP) — United Airlines has struck a deal with Elon Musk’s SpaceX to offer satellite-based Starlink WiFi service on flights within the next several years.
The airline said Friday the service will be free to passengers.
United said it will begin testing the service early next year and begin offering it on some flights by later in 2025.
Financial details of the deal were not disclosed.
The announcement comes as airlines rush to offer more amenities as a way to stand out when passengers pick a carrier for a trip. United’s goal is to make sitting on a plane pretty much like being on the ground when it comes to browsing the internet, streaming entertainment and playing games.
“Everything you can do on the ground, you’ll soon be able to do on board a United plane at 35,000 feet, just about anywhere in the world,” CEO Scott Kirby said in announcing the deal.
The airline says Starlink will allow passengers to get internet access even over oceans and polar regions where traditional cell or Wi-Fi signals may be weak or missing.
Sony has made it easy for Canadian consumers to preorder the PlayStation 5 Pro in Canada directly from PlayStation’s official website. Here’s how:
Visit the Official Website: Go to direct.playstation.com and navigate to the PS5 Pro section once preorders go live on September 26, 2024.
Create or Log in to Your PlayStation Account: If you don’t have a PlayStation account, you will need to create one. Existing users can simply log in to proceed.
Place Your Preorder: Once logged in, follow the instructions to preorder your PS5 Pro. Ensure you have a valid payment method ready and double-check your shipping information for accuracy.
Preorder Through Major Canadian Retailers
While preordering directly from PlayStation is a popular option, you can also secure your PS5 Pro through trusted Canadian retailers. These retailers are expected to offer preorders on or after September 26:
Best Buy Canada
Walmart Canada
EB Games (GameStop)
Amazon Canada
The Source
Steps to Preorder via Canadian Retailers:
Visit Retailer Websites: Search for “PlayStation 5 Pro” on the website of your preferred retailer starting on September 26.
Create or Log in to Your Account: If you’re shopping online, having an account with the retailer can speed up the preorder process.
Preorder in Store: For those who prefer in-person shopping, check with local stores regarding availability and preorder policies.
3. Sign Up for Notifications
Many retailers and websites offer the option to sign up for notifications when the preorder goes live. If you’re worried about missing out due to high demand, this can be a useful option.
Visit Retailer Sites: Look for a “Notify Me” or “Email Alerts” option and enter your email to stay informed.
Use PlayStation Alerts: Sign up for notifications directly through Sony to be one of the first to know when preorders are available.
4. Prepare for High Demand
Preordering the PS5 Pro is expected to be competitive, with high demand likely to result in quick sellouts, just as with the initial release of the original PS5. To maximize your chances of securing a preorder:
Act Quickly: Be prepared to place your order as soon as preorders open. Timing is key, as stock can run out within minutes.
Double-Check Payment Information: Ensure your credit card or payment method is ready to go. Any delays during the checkout process could result in losing your spot.
Stay Informed: Monitor PlayStation and retailer websites for updates on restocks or additional preorder windows.
Final Thoughts
The PlayStation 5 Pro is set to take gaming to the next level with its enhanced performance, graphics, and new features. Canadian gamers should be ready to act fast when preorders open on September 26, 2024, to secure their console ahead of the holiday season. Whether you choose to preorder through PlayStation’s official website or your preferred retailer, following the steps outlined above will help ensure a smooth and successful preorder experience.
For more details on the PS5 Pro and to preorder, visit direct.playstation.com or stay tuned to updates from major Canadian retailers.
Since the PlayStation 5 (PS5) launched four years ago, PlayStation has continuously evolved to meet the demands of its players. Today, we are excited to announce the next step in this journey: the PlayStation 5 Pro. Designed for the most dedicated players and game creators, the PS5 Pro brings groundbreaking advancements in gaming hardware, raising the bar for what’s possible.
Key Features of the PS5 Pro
The PS5 Pro comes equipped with several key performance enhancements, addressing the requests of gamers for smoother, higher-quality graphics at a consistent 60 frames per second (FPS). The console’s standout features include:
Upgraded GPU: The PS5 Pro’s GPU boasts 67% more Compute Units than the current PS5, combined with 28% faster memory. This allows for up to 45% faster rendering speeds, ensuring a smoother gaming experience.
Advanced Ray Tracing: Ray tracing capabilities have been significantly enhanced, with reflections and refractions of light being processed at double or triple the speed of the current PS5, creating more dynamic visuals.
AI-Driven Upscaling: Introducing PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution, an AI-based upscaling technology that adds extraordinary detail to images, resulting in sharper image clarity.
Backward Compatibility & Game Boost: More than 8,500 PS4 games playable on PS5 Pro will benefit from PS5 Pro Game Boost, stabilizing or enhancing performance. PS4 games will also see improved resolution on select titles.
VRR & 8K Support: The PS5 Pro supports Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and 8K gaming for the ultimate visual experience, while also launching with the latest wireless technology, Wi-Fi 7, in supported regions.
Optimized Games & Patches
Game creators have quickly embraced the new technology that comes with the PS5 Pro. Many games will receive free updates to take full advantage of the console’s new features, labeled as PS5 Pro Enhanced. Some of the highly anticipated titles include:
Alan Wake 2
Assassin’s Creed: Shadows
Demon’s Souls
Dragon’s Dogma 2
Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth
Gran Turismo 7
Marvel’s Spider-Man 2
Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart
Horizon Forbidden West
These updates will allow players to experience their favorite games at a higher fidelity, taking full advantage of the console’s improved graphics and performance.
Design & Compatibility
Maintaining consistency within the PS5 family, the PS5 Pro retains the same height and width as the original PS5 model. Players will also have the option to add an Ultra HD Blu-ray Disc Drive or swap console covers when available.
Additionally, the PS5 Pro is fully compatible with all existing PS5 accessories, including the PlayStation VR2, DualSense Edge, Pulse Elite, and Access controller. This ensures seamless integration into your current gaming setup.
Pricing & Availability
The PS5 Pro will be available starting November 7, 2024, at a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of:
$699.99 USD
$949.99 CAD
£699.99 GBP
€799.99 EUR
¥119,980 JPY
Each PS5 Pro comes with a 2TB SSD, a DualSense wireless controller, and a copy of Astro’s Playroom pre-installed. Pre-orders begin on September 26, 2024, and the console will be available at participating retailers and directly from PlayStation via direct.playstation.com.
The launch of the PS5 Pro marks a new chapter in PlayStation’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge gaming experiences. Whether players choose the standard PS5 or the PS5 Pro, PlayStation aims to provide the best possible gaming experience for everyone.
Preorder your PS5 Pro and step into the next generation of gaming this holiday season.
