To view a custom map that was created in Google My Maps directly inside the standard Google Maps app on your phone, follow these steps:
On iPhone & Android (Google Maps App)
- Open the standard Google Maps app.
- Tap the Saved tab at the bottom center of the screen (on some app versions, this may be labeled “You”).
- Scroll all the way to the bottom of this menu and tap Maps (usually located under a “Your Lists” or “Explore” section).
- Tap the name of the custom map you want to load.
The custom route, layers, and custom pins will instantly overlay onto your live Google Maps screen.
How to Turn the Custom Map Back Off
Once loaded, the custom map will stay on your screen even if you close the app. To hide it and get back to your normal map view:
- Tap any custom pin or the map legend at the bottom of the screen to pull up the map details.
- Tap View map legend.
- Tap Close or Clear to remove the overlay.
Troubleshooting Tips for Runners on the Move:
Offline Use Warning: Google My Maps layers do not work natively with Google Maps’ “Offline Maps” feature. If you lose cellular service out on the course, the background map will disappear, leaving only your custom track floating in space. To prevent this, load the map while you still have service and leave the app open in the background.
The “Shared with Me” Caveat: If someone else made the map and sent you a link, you must click that link on your phone at least once while logged into your Google account. This automatically “saves” it to your account so it shows up in your Google Maps app list under the steps above.