Avoid Highways Using the Google Maps Website

When you’re planning your route on the Google Maps website, it takes a simple checkmark to avoid major highways. By doing so, your route may incur a longer travel time; however, if you’re just as excited about the journey as reaching the destination, it’s a great way to go. You’ll see your route update on the map and in the directions area on the left.

Avoid Highways on Your Route on Android

If you’re using the Google Maps app on your Android device, you can easily avoid highways for the current route you’re planning.

Always Avoid Highways on Android

Here’s how to always avoid highways for every trip you plan in the Google Maps mobile app:

Avoid Highways on Your Route on the iOS App

Avoiding highways with the Google Maps on iOS is very similar: Tap the arrow in the upper-left to exit Settings and return to the main Google Maps screen. With this setting enabled, you’ll avoid high traffic roadways for all directions you obtain. Whether you want an alternate route that’s more scenic or wish to stay away from traffic-filled roads, it’s easy to avoid highways when getting directions in Google Maps. Tap the back arrow to return to the route. You’ll see updated directions that take you away from highways.

Always Avoid Highways on the iOS App

If you prefer to stay away from highways for every trip you plan in the Google Maps mobile app on iOS, you can change a simple setting.