How to Avoid Hills & Busy Roads in Apple Maps Cycling Directions

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When I’m going on a longer bike ride or one in an unfamiliar area, I always consult Apple Maps to plan my cycling route. A new feature from Apple Maps makes this even easier, and more personalized; users can now avoid hills and busy roads! This is excellent news for those of us who are a little out of shape, and who would rather avoid excessive encounters with cars when possible. Here’s a quick step-by-step guide to planning a cycling route with no hills and no busy streets in Apple Maps.

Related: How to Share Your ETA with a Contact in Apple Maps

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How to Change Cycling Directions Settings in Apple Maps

This process is quick and easy to customize. Here’s how to change and select your preferred Apple Maps settings for cycling.

1. Open Settings.
2. Scroll down and tap on Maps.
   
   
    
3. Scroll down and find the Directions section on this page (not the Preferred Type of Travel section.)
4. Tap on the Cycling option.
   
   
    
5. You’ll see two toggles. Tap each toggle to switch them on.
   
   

Now both hills and busy roads will be avoided. If you choose to, you can easily opt to switch just one toggle on and leave the other off—it’s up to you.

These kinds of tips are handy when planning activities. If you’re looking for similar ideas to make using your devices easier and more customized, sign up for our free Tip of the Day newsletter.

How to Change Other Directions Settings in Apple Maps

We’ve covered cycling settings for Apple Maps, but there are other quick ways to customize your Apple Maps experience. Here are some other ideas.

1. Open Settings.
2. Scroll down and tap on Maps.
   
   
    
3. In the Preferred Type of Travel section you can select any of the four options as your default preference.
4. In the Directions section you can tap on any of the four options to further customize your Apple Maps preferences.
   
   

Now that you’re more acquainted with the settings in Apple Maps, you can enjoy safer and simpler travel.