Originally Posted by
Boyd Reynolds
Google maps does have bike routes but you have to do a little extra clicking to see them. On the google maps page click "get directions" at the top left, then click the bike icon in the list of 4 icons, then enter some local addresses in the boxes that appear. You will see a map with a suggested route and all the bike lanes, paths, and routes marked. The suggested route isn't likely to be the very best route for you, but with the map you can work out what you want to try. It's a nice tool.
I use Google maps with reasonable success, but two things that may be helpful:
1) some of the turns just tell you to 'turn left' or 'turn right' with no indication of where you're going. You need to study the street view pictures and/or really know the area. I've had some lengthy detours because I didn't spot a turn onto a trail (which are most of the unnamed turns).
2) you can adjust the directions by dragging the route. I use this pretty regularly because, although google maps looks for bicycle friendly routes, it may not look for the friendliest route, esp. if the alternative is longer. Also, depending on your location, I can't speak to how good the bicycle directions will be. Some are clearly better than others.