TL;DR
- Routes guide players between PokéStops and Gyms for enhanced exploration rewards
- Limited creator access and strict approval processes cause most display issues
- Zygarde Cells require completing routes, making availability crucial for progression
- Strategic route planning maximizes spawn encounters and item collection efficiency
- Community collaboration and patience essential during gradual feature rollout phase

Pokemon Go trainers continually face new challenges, with the latest being technical difficulties surrounding the Nearby Routes feature that launched recently.
The fundamental gameplay of Pokemon Go centers on real-world exploration dynamics. Trainers navigate between various Gyms and PokéStops throughout their local environment, engaging in combat scenarios and random wild Pokemon appearances. This innovative route mapping system theoretically provides optimized pathfinding for more efficient exploration sessions.
How do Pokemon Go Nearby Routes work?
The Routes interface appears within the Nearby tracking menu, accessible via the bottom-right screen corner. Here, trainers can browse available local paths and initiate guided exploration adventures.
A curated group of experienced players possesses route creation privileges. These designated creators select either a PokéStop or Gym as their starting location, chart the pathway through augmented reality mapping, and submit supplementary details. Following Niantic’s review and authorization process, approved routes become visible in the game’s Route directory.

Pokemon Go Routes not showing
Numerous trainers report complete absence of new routes in their vicinity. This persistent problem prevents players from obtaining critical Zygarde Cell components. While potential game malfunctions remain possible, the predominant issue typically involves non-existent routes rather than technical bugs.
Niantic confirms that route creation availability remains restricted currently. This methodology parallels Gym and PokéStop submission procedures. Players identify local points of interest, submit formal applications that Niantic either authorizes or declines.
In-game access remains limited, with only select veteran trainers able to establish routes. However, submission doesn’t guarantee approval. Niantic maintains rigorous safety evaluations for proposed routes since players will physically follow these paths. Should hazardous routes receive approval and trainers experience harm during navigation, Niantic faces significant legal liability exposure.
While Niantic’s cautious approach demonstrates responsible development, trainers understandably experience frustration when features launch without full functionality. For optimal route utilization, prioritize paths with high PokéStop density and diverse terrain types to maximize spawn variety.
Strategic route selection significantly impacts Zygarde completion rates. Focus on established community-vetted routes rather than experimenting with untested paths. Remember that route completion rewards scale with distance covered and waypoints visited.
Community coordination proves essential during this phased rollout. Connect with local Pokemon Go groups to identify active route creators in your region. Consider submitting route suggestions through proper channels rather than expecting immediate access to creation tools.
Action Checklist
- Check Nearby menu daily for new route additions in your area
- Join local Pokemon Go communities to identify route creators and planned pathways
- Complete at least one route weekly to accumulate Zygarde Cells systematically
- Submit route suggestions through Niantic Wayfarer with detailed safety justifications
- Document and report persistent route display issues through official support channels
No reproduction without permission:Game Guides Online » Why are the Pokemon Go Nearby Routes not showing? Master Pokemon Go Routes with expert troubleshooting, strategic tips, and Zygarde encounter optimization
