How To Add a GPX File to Google Maps

The GPX format is a file type that contains map data including coordinates on the Global Positioning System (GPS). Sadly though, there’s no universal standard, and GPX is just one of the many map data formats. But GPX is an open standard, so an increasing number of manufacturers use it as a native format on their devices.

Google Maps uses the KML format for its map data, but they support many formats, including GPX. Google claims that they support all base map data, but certain formats will be easier to import than others. GPX is not one of those easy formats, so in this article, you’ll see how to convert a GPX file into a preferred format.

What’s the Deal with GPX?

GPS Exchange Format has been around since 2002, and many satnav devices use it to store their map data. Even satnav devices that don’t produce GPX files natively have options to import them. There’s no point doing an in-depth dissertation about this file format; think of it like JPG, an open standard that’s used almost universally.

Because it’s an open standard, GPX is very popular for creating maps that can be used on a wide array of platforms. If you ever want to share a GPS trail, try to convert your file to GPX. That will ensure that whoever is receiving it can view it on their device of choice.

If you want to get some good ideas about points of interest, try searching for GPX maps for various purposes. For instance, search Google for “GPS trail running routes.” The popularity of the format makes it a good choice for people who want to share good finds. Or, how about “GPX scenic road trip?” Get creative, you’ll be surprised at what you discover.

Importing GPX into Google

If you have a GPX file and you just want to pop it into Google Maps, the process isn’t too complicated. This isn’t an ideal scenario, because Google Maps will have to convert the file, but it will definitely work.

First, sign in to My Maps, then follow the steps outlined below:

1. Click on the button labeled Create a New Map in the top-left corner.

2. Click on Add Layer in the menu to the left, and then click on Import.

3. You will be given the option to upload a file from your computer or simply drag and drop into the receiving area. Upload your GPX file and the map waypoints will be added automatically.

It’s that simple. However, this might not import all the data from the GPX file. If you want to make sure that the map features are imported, you should convert the map file into KML format first.

Converting a Google Map to GPX

There may be times when the GPS device that you prefer to use is compatible with GPX. Google Maps is one of the easiest and most popular directions services so it’s no wonder you’d like to easily convert the two.

To do this, follow these steps:

1. Head over to Google Maps

2. Next, input your locations.

3. Now, pull up ‘Maps GPX‘ on your web browser.

4. Then, copy and paste the URL from Google Maps, in the web browser, click CMD+C on your Mac’s keyboard or CTRL+C if you’re using a PC to copy the URL in the address bar. Paste the URL into ‘Maps GPX’ and click Let’s Go.

5. The newly converted Google Map will begin a download into a GPX file for you to save and use elsewhere. You may have to allow the download access to a compatible application so we’ve listed another option below if this doesn’t work for you.

We like ‘Maps GPX’ because it’s free, doesn’t require any software downloads, and it doesn’t ask for any personal information.

Converting a GPX File into KML

To make sure that all the data from your file gets properly uploaded into Google, first convert it into the preferred format, KML. You can convert GPX to KML using a variety of software, but the most convenient way is to use an online converter. GPS Visualizer is a very lightweight and free converter.

1. All you have to do is upload your GPX file, select Google Maps as the output format, and then select Map it. In seconds, you’ll have a KML file available.
2. After your file is converted, download it and follow the steps for uploading a file to Google Maps as detailed above. This extra step will ensure that nothing is lost in the upload to Google.
3. Once your file is uploaded to Google Maps, you can share it and perform any actions that you normally would on Google Maps.

Creating a Google Map

It may be easier to just create your own Google Map. You can add your destinations and tweak the map any way you’d like. To create your own Google map, do this:

1. Go to My Maps and type your locations into the search bar.

2. Next, click Add to map.

Your map will automatically save to your Google Drive so be sure you’re signed in to the correct Google account before proceeding.

Behind Every Great Map Is a Great GPX

Viewing and using your GPX files on Google Maps is really not very complicated. Just upload the file to My Maps and the map features will self-populate. A great added benefit is that you can also export files in GPX format from My Maps. So if you want to send someone map data that their car’s satnav can read, use the GPX format.

How do you get your GPX files? Are you receiving them from someone or do you have a device that produces them? Is the format of the map file important to you, and why? Let us know in the comments section below.