Have you ever found yourself wishing that Google Maps would take a certain route when you’re trying to get from point A to point B? I know that feeling all too well! In this article, I want to share with you some tips on how to force Google Maps to take a certain route, based on my own experiences and research.
Understanding Google Maps Routes
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of forcing Google Maps to take a certain route, it’s important to understand how Google Maps determines the suggested routes. Google Maps uses a variety of factors, such as distance, traffic congestion, road closures, and historical data, to provide the most efficient routes.
Using Waypoints to Influence the Route
One way to influence the route that Google Maps suggests is by using waypoints. Waypoints are intermediate stops along your route. By adding waypoints, you can guide Google Maps to take the specific roads or paths that you want. To do this, simply open Google Maps, enter your starting point and destination, and then click on the “Add destination” option to insert the waypoints along the route you prefer.
Customizing Routes with the “Drag and Drop” Feature
Another method that I’ve found super helpful is the “drag and drop” feature on Google Maps. After entering your destination, you can click and drag the route line to a different road, and Google Maps will automatically re-route based on your adjustments. This feature allows you to visually force Google Maps to take a certain route by customizing the path according to your preferences.
Using Google Maps URL Parameters
If you’re a bit tech-savvy and comfortable with manipulating URLs, another way to influence the route is by using specific URL parameters. You can modify the URL of Google Maps to include certain parameters that guide the route. One popular parameter is the “waypoints” parameter, which allows you to specify the intermediate waypoints in the URL itself.
Conclusion
Forcing Google Maps to take a certain route may require a bit of creativity and experimentation, but with the use of waypoints, the “drag and drop” feature, and URL parameters, you can certainly nudge Google Maps in the direction you want. Whether you’re trying to avoid tolls, take a scenic route, or simply prefer a specific road, these techniques can help you customize your journey.
