How to make a Route in Pokemon Go & Route bonuses explained

Pokemon Go introduced Routes, a feature that gives trainers some helpful bonuses for exploring the surroundings around them, in 2023. We’ve got a rundown of everything you need to know about this mechanic in the mobile title.

Niantic provided Pokemon Go players with a lot of new content in the last quarter of 2023, including PokeStop Showcases and Routes.

Routes were originally added to Pokemon Go during the Blaze New Trials event and remained in the game ever since. This feature delivers a new element to gameplay and can also provide players with exciting bonuses when made.

Here’s exactly how to make Routes in Pokemon Go.

How to make a Route in Pokemon Go

Here’s what needs to be done in order to create a route in Pokemon Go:

1. Choose a PokéStop or Gym to be your starting point.
2. Hit record to begin mapping your Route.
3. Fill out some info about your Route, then submit it for review.
4. Once accepted, Trainers can follow your Route!

Each Route has to be submitted for review before it can actually be implemented into the game for other players to see, so make sure your Route is as fleshed out and polished as possible before submitting it.

Is there a Level requirement to make Routes in Pokemon Go?

On January 10, 2024, Niantic announced that the entry level to create Routes will be level 37, compared to the previous level 40 requirement.

Trainers, we have lowered the entry level for Route Creation to level 37 from level 40. This means any account level 37 and up can enjoy Route Creation from today.

— Niantic Support (@NianticHelp) January 10, 2024

This, however, is subject to change.

How to explore Routes in Pokemon Go

Exploring a Route in the game is just as simple as creating one yourself, and can be done using a new menu option added to the ‘Nearby’ screen. Additionally, there is no level requirement needed to explore a Route, only to create one.

Trainers can explore Routes by following these steps:

1. Check the Route tab from the Nearby menu to see local Routes.
2. Choose one that catches your eye.
3. Follow the Route and enjoy exploring!

The ‘Nearby’ screen is the same menu system where trainers can find nearby Pokemon and Raids to take part in.

Bonuses for exploring Routes in Pokemon Go

Players can also earn bonuses for exploring new Routes while playing. First up, trainers can earn the new Route Badge by completely following a Route to its end for the first time.

Not to mention, trainers can also obtain Zygarde Cells for exploring Routes in the game.

Trainers can also earn the following bonuses while traveling on a Route:

• Earn Buddy Candy more quickly.
• Earn an XP Bonus for the first Route completed each day.
  • Completing Routes for seven days will earn an increased XP bonus.
• Earn a Buddy Heart for your current buddy Pokemon upon completing a Route.

Additionally, using Incense while exploring a Route for the first time will cause more wild Pokemon to be attracted to your current locations.

And that’s everything Pokemon Go trainers need to know about creating Routes in the monster-catching mobile game! Check out some more of our Pokemon Go guides below:

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