A GPX file is the language of GPS. So if you hike, cycle or survey, you will meet one. This guide explains what a GPX file holds, and how to open and convert it.
GPX stands for GPS Exchange Format. It is an open, plain-text XML file. So almost every GPS device and app can read it. As a result, it is the common way to move outdoor data between tools.
Many tools export it. For example, Garmin units, Strava and Komoot. So you get one after a hike, a ride, or a survey. Then you can share it or map it.
A GPX file can hold three data types. Each one means something different. So it helps to know them apart.
Waypoints are single points. For example, a trailhead, a summit, or a parking spot. Each has a name and coordinates. So they act like saved markers.
A route is a planned path. It is a line made of a few chosen points. So it says where you intend to go. Navigation units follow it turn by turn.
A track is a recorded path. It is a dense line of points with timestamps. So it shows where you actually went. Fitness apps save your run this way.
You have several options. For a quick view, drop it into Google Earth or a mapping app. For analysis, load it into QGIS. However, GPX carries limited attributes. So rich data can be simplified.
It is always WGS84 longitude and latitude. So it lines up with Google Earth and web maps directly. Therefore no reprojection is needed for those tools.
Often you need another format. So convert it in your browser, with nothing uploaded. For example, GPX to KML for Google Earth. Or GPX to Shapefile or CSV for GIS and spreadsheets.
Good conversion keeps waypoints, routes and tracks. So check the output and confirm all three survived. You can read the format details at the GPX schema site. In short, once you know what a GPX file holds, it is easy to use anywhere.
A GPX file stores GPS data as open XML: waypoints, routes and tracks. Hikers, cyclists, drivers and surveyors use it to move outdoor and navigation data between devices and apps.
A route is a planned path made of a few chosen points, so it is where you intend to go. A track is a recorded path made of many timestamped points, so it is where you actually went.
Open it in Google Earth or a mapping app for a quick view, or load it into QGIS for analysis. You can also convert it to KML, Shapefile or CSV in your browser without installing anything.
GPX always uses WGS84 longitude and latitude. That matches Google Earth, GeoJSON and web maps directly, so no reprojection is needed for those formats.
Yes. A browser-based GPX converter turns the file into KML for Google Earth, a shapefile for GIS, or CSV for a spreadsheet, and keeps the waypoints, routes and tracks together.
