I play connect the dots with Google Maps with the "Walking" option. Next I adjust the route based on: simplifying the routing, possible rail trails, DOT traffic maps, scenic byways, ACA routes, East Coast Greenway routes, etc.. Oh, and I use the "terrain" option in google maps to be sure google hasn't routed me on a "shortcut" over a mountain. (It happens)

Finally, I take pictures of the computer screen with my camera to document the route. I view the maps on the digital camera's display when I need to check my route. This way I don't have to haul around any physical maps.