ROUTE FINDERS

from Escarpment Magazine Spring 2023

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Most GPS units have inbuilt navigation but the information isn’t always specific to cycling. Luckily, there are a host of handy route mapping apps like Komoot, Strava, and Ride with GPS. Keep in mind you need a paid account to access all the features. Some suit performance and training over navigation and exploration.

KOMOOT - A community-based app that relies on users for route tracking. Share highlights and notes about your rides including coffee stops, bike shops, images, and loads of other useful stuff like difficulty of ride, surface (unpaved, cobbled, gravel). An excellent app for those who want to explore gravel or mountain bike routes.

STRAVA - The social network for athletes, Strava pairs interaction-fostering features found in platforms like Instagram and Twitter with activity tracking technology. Follow your favourite rider to discover new routes or toggle “use popularity” button. The algorithm will find the quickest, safest and most scenic roads to ride on.

RIDE WITH GPS - The app has two main modes; a map which you can interactively use to draw your own route; and a search tool which allows you to find routes according to specifics such as distance or elevation. Click “find”, enter your location and add keyword “gravel” to discover amazing local rides.