Originally Posted by
chefisaac
I use my garmin a lot. I will map out using ridewithgps.com and sometimes bikeroutetoaster.com
I prefer ridewithgps.com though.
I sometimes use google maps too especially the street view.
Face it though, the first time you do the route, there is a learning curve. The best way is to map it out and you and someone else drive it. Then you will understand more and more. Regardless if you use maps online or paper maps, nothing beats being able to drive it first.
I think this makes a lot of sense - there have been a few times when I've said to myself 'well, that's a dumb route' once I've actually ridden it. Paper or google maps or something has then suggested an alternate route.
For longer rides, or rides that start well away from home, one idea I've used with some success is to look up the routes for 'organized rides' in that area.