Buzz
While exploring the best free route-building tools for cyclists and runners, I couldn’t help but feel nostalgic about Strava’s Route Builder. Once a beloved feature of the app, it allowed cyclists and runners to design and personalize their routes before heading out. Unfortunately, this tool was hidden behind a paywall a few years ago. Even previously reliable workarounds to bypass the paid subscription no longer function. It’s the same old story: The app seeks profit.
If you’re a paying member (or recall the good old days), you’re probably aware of how convenient it was to download a pre-planned route to follow during your activity. I used to spend countless hours experimenting with route builders, and having this option is especially useful when you’re biking in unfamiliar areas.
To follow a route and track your ride without paying, your best option is to take advantage of Strava’s free trial period. Here’s what you should know.
Maximize the value of your free trial by downloading as much as you can.
While using the free version of Strava, every time you select a map, you'll see the options to 'save route' or 'try this route.' These buttons direct you to the sign-up page for the paid subscription. Priced at $5 per month, it's not a huge expense. However, why not make the most of the 30-day free trial period?
Indeed, you can use the route builder during your free trial, but don't worry—your pre-planned routes won’t vanish if you decide to cancel your subscription.
The primary challenge of this approach is the need to plan ahead for all the routes you might need once your 30-day trial expires. This could involve plotting routes for future vacations or creating a range of distances for potential adjustments in your training schedule.
Exploring the route builder feature
Strava’s route builder is user-friendly, though it tends to perform best on desktop rather than on mobile. You can either create new routes from scratch by selecting locations on the map, use existing ones shared by your Strava friends, or explore Strava’s heat map for route inspiration.
Note: Your routes won't appear immediately in your Strava app. To access them, tap 'Record,' and before you start your activity, select the option to 'Load Route.' Choose your desired route and follow the pre-planned path while you exercise.
Having once upgraded to Strava’s paid subscription, only to later revert to the free version, I find that the route builder is the feature I miss the most. It might justify the subscription on its own. However, if you’re cutting back on your monthly spending, a well-utilized free trial could serve you quite well.
