Directions Without Highways in Google Maps

Get directions without highways in Google Maps.

Do you prefer to avoid driving on major highways? Do you ride a scooter that can't travel at highway speeds? Or do you simply prefer to take the road less traveled (as Robert Frost had suggested)?

If you answer yes to the above questions, then Google Maps has the answers for you. Google Maps added a button that gives directions with or without highways in them. If you like a scenic route, want to explore the rural areas, then Google Maps will be the answer for you.

How to get this avoid Highways? It is easy just click Google Maps and get directions like you do. Once you enter the from and to directions, there is a check box at the top left corner as shown below that says “Avoid Highways” click the box, the Google Maps will give you the directions without the highways. It may take longer but is worth it in some places.


The line next to the blue line is the actual route via highways.

Here is an example you can see for it yourself, it is a route between Seattle to Google’s office in Kirkland. The normal highway route takes about 13 hours and 23 minutes, without highway it takes about 21 hour and 45 minutes. The second route skips I-90 and WA-520 floating bridges across Lake Washington and takes the scenic route around the lake through Juanita.

This “Avoid Highways” checkbox stays off interstates, motorways, and major roadways.

Here is another example Vancouver, BC to Key West, FL.

Enjoy and have fun during the summer, highways are boring, rural scenery is good for the soul and heart.