MapMyWalk Walking Route Planner: Draw a walking route using this tool provided by MapMyWalk. You can zoom in on a map of the area and view it as a street map, a satellite map, or a topographic map. As you draw the route, you see the total distance adding up. You can save and print your maps.
Google Maps with Walking Directions: Google's mapping tool will suggest walking directions when you enter your start and end destinations and intermediate destinations. The caveat is that there may not be sidewalks or pedestrian paths. Zoom in with the satellite view to see if the streets suggested have a sidewalk or other pedestrian safety features. This tool only routes walkers alongside roadways and ignores bike/walk pedestrian trails nearby. The distance between each turn and the total distance is noted. Directions printed alongside the map tell you which way to turn.
Satellite View: With an online walking route planner, use the satellite view to look for street crossings with painted crossings or signals, sidewalks, and pedestrian paths separated from the roadway. You will also be able to see shade tree cover along the walking route.
Terrain or Topo View: The terrain or topo view of an online walking route planner allows you to see hills, depressions, and other elevation changes. A route that appears walkable may have steep or even hazardous terrain not apparent on a street map or satellite view.
Once you have planned your walking route online, consider also my 14 Points for Planning a Great Walking Route
