Bicycle Route Feature Added to Google Maps

Google has added a valuable new feature to its Google Maps service; safe bike routes to get from point A to point B.

From the League of American Bicyclists:
"This new feature includes: step-by-step bicycling directions; bike trails outlined directly on the map; and a new "Bicycling" layer that indicates bike trails, bike lanes, and bike-friendly roads. The directions feature provides step-by-step, bike-specific routing suggestions – similar to the directions provided by our driving, walking, or public transit modes. Simply enter a start point and destination and select "Bicycling" from the drop-down menu. You will receive a route that is optimized for cycling, taking advantage of bike trails, bike lanes, and bike-friendly streets and avoiding hilly terrain whenever possible."

Here is a brief video describing the new feature and tips on using it: