This tutorial is intended for bicycling, but the concepts transfer easily for automobile or running routes. Click on the photos below for a larger view.
To get started, first browse to http://gmap-pedometer.com
In the text box shown, type the name of the location your map will start, then click go.
Select English (miles) or Metric (kilometers).
Click cycling.
Next, find your starting location on the map, by dragging the map around, and zooming in by clicking the plus sign (+) or minus sign (-).
When you are ready to start plotting your route, click the button 'Start Recording', and then double-click on the map at your starting point (for example, at the X).
Beware, the map may move so that your starting point is in the center.
Your starting point will appear as the following symbol.
To plot the next point along your route, drag the map, then double-click on your next desired point (for example, at the X).
You may want to zoom out a little, by clicking the minus button (-).
Again the map will move so your latest point is in the center.
Your route will appear as a red line from the starting point.
As your route grows in length, mile or kilometer markers will appear as shown.
To plot another point, drag and double-click at the next point (for example, X).
Continue along your way by clicking on the next point.
As you continue, you may zoom in or out at any time with the plus sign (+) and minus sign (-). Zooming out lets you cover greater distances with fewer clicks. Zooming in lets you make intricate turns.
Gmap-pedometer presents USGS topographic maps in addition to road maps, satellite photos, and general terrain.
You may click the buttons for different views at any time while you are creating a map.
Another nice feature of gmap-pedometer is the ability to change drawing modes in the middle of plotting a map. This is especially useful to travel off-road, or to travel on a bikeway which is not on the map.
Click the 'Manual' button and double-click your next point on the map (for example, X). Your route will be extended in a straight line.
When you want to resume on-road routing, click the 'Cycling' button again, and double-click your next point.
If ever you plot a wrong turn, you may un-do points in reverse order by clicking the 'Undo Last Point' button. (For example, click 'Undo Last Point' a few times, and then go forward again by double-clicking at the X.)
Your corrected route is shown.
When you are sure you are finished plotting your route, save it by clicking the 'Save Route' link.
A link to your saved map is presented.
Note: You must immediately save this link in order to view your map at a later time. For best results, copy/paste it somewhere safe.
Now that the map is saved, you may view it at a future date, or email it to friends.
Paste the link to your map into any browser, and your map will be retrieved and presented.
Et voila. I hope you enjoy plotting maps on the gmap-pedometer website.
