How to Avoid Highways on Google Maps

Google Maps has an option that allows you to avoid highways (also called “motorways” on the app). Instead, it shows you alternative routes to reach your destination without highways. You can turn this option on for the Google Maps mobile app and website. Follow these steps to avoid highways on Google Maps.

Note: there are some routes that you can’t navigate without taking a highway.

Avoid highways on Google Maps on Android or iPhone

Avoid highways for the current trip only

1. Enter your destination in the search field.

   

2. Next, tap on Directions.

   

3. Enter your start or current location.

   

4. When you have your route, tap on the three-dot menu to the right of the starting location.

   

5. Select Route options.

   

6. Check the Avoid motorways option. You can optionally also choose to Avoid toll roads and Avoid ferries.

   

   Now Google Maps will direct you to your location while avoiding highways and motorways.

Avoid highways for current and all future trips

1. Launch Google Maps.

   

2. Tap on your profile picture or initials at the top right of the screen.

   

3. Tap on Settings.

   

4. Scroll down and tap on Navigation settings.

   

5. Scroll down to Route options. You will see various route options here.

   

6. Turn on the Avoid motorways toggle.

   

   Google Maps will now avoid all highways when navigating using the app.

Avoid highways on Google Maps on Computer

1. On your preferred browser, go to the Google Maps website.

   

2. Click on the Directions tab on the right side of the Google Maps search bar.

   

3. Enter your starting location and destination in the fields provided.

   

4. After entering your start location and destination, click on Options.

   

5. You will see various “Route options.” Check the Highways option if you want to avoid highways on your trip.

   

   Google Maps will show you rerouted directions that avoid highways.