Create Custom Offline Walking Routes in iOS 18 Maps

Apple Maps in iOS 18 officially allows users to create custom walking and hiking routes directly on their iPhone and save them for offline use. This update addresses a long-standing request from outdoor enthusiasts, combining tailored route planning with full offline navigation. Below is a straightforward guide explaining how custom routes work, how to create them, and how to download them to your device so you never lose your way without cellular service.

Yes, Custom Offline Routes Are Supported in iOS 18

With iOS 18, you are no longer limited to pre-determined point-A to point-B directions. Apple Maps includes a dedicated route builder tailored specifically for pedestrians and hikers. You can design custom paths point-by-point, choose specific trail loops, and save the resulting itinerary to your device's local storage along with the corresponding map data.

How to Create a Custom Walking or Hiking Route

Creating your own path requires only a few steps inside the updated Apple Maps app:

  1. Open Apple Maps and tap your profile picture or scroll down the main search card to locate the Library section.
  2. Select Routes, then tap Create Custom Route (or the + button).
  3. Set your starting point by tapping a location on the map or searching for a specific trail or address.
  4. Plot your path by tapping along the roads, paths, or trails you wish to take. Maps will automatically snap your line to recognized walking trails and footpaths.
  5. Choose your route style:
    • One Way: A direct point-to-point path.
    • Out and Back: Maps mirrors your route back to the start.
    • Close Loop: Automatically connects your endpoint back to your origin.
  6. Review the route details, including total distance, elevation gain, and estimated completion time.
  7. Tap Save to store the route in your Library.

Downloading the Route for Offline Use

To access turn-by-turn guidance and map rendering without an active internet connection, you must download the route's map data locally:

  1. Go to your Library and open the Routes tab.
  2. Tap the custom route you just built.
  3. Tap the Download button (cloud icon) or select the option to Download Offline Map.
  4. Confirm the download boundary. Apple Maps will store the vector map data, elevation details, and routing information directly onto your iPhone.

Once downloaded, you can navigate your custom path anywhere—including deep wilderness areas, state parks, and remote trails—without cellular reception or Wi-Fi.