Can I export a Google Maps route as a GPX file?

Yes. Google Maps does not natively export GPX files, but gmaps2gpx converts any Google Maps directions URL into a standard GPX 1.1 file. Just copy the URL from Google Maps, paste it into gmaps2gpx, and download the GPX file. It works with shortened links, dragged routes, and via-points.

How do I convert Google Maps directions to GPX?

Open Google Maps, create your route, click Share, and copy the link. Then go to gmaps2gpx.vercel.app, paste the URL, choose your travel mode, and click Convert. You can preview the route on the map, select from alternative routes, and download the GPX file.

How do I export a Google Maps route to my Garmin?

Convert your Google Maps route to GPX using gmaps2gpx, then import the GPX file into Garmin Connect (web or app). From Garmin Connect, send the course to your Garmin device. This works with all Garmin devices including Edge cycling computers, Fenix watches, and automotive GPS units.

Does the GPX file include elevation data?

The GPX file includes precise GPS coordinates (latitude and longitude) for every point along the route. Elevation data depends on the Google API response. For full elevation profiles, you can open the GPX file in gpx.studio (one-click from gmaps2gpx) which automatically adds elevation data from SRTM datasets.

What is the best Google Maps to GPX converter?

gmaps2gpx is a free, modern Google Maps to GPX converter that supports all travel modes including motorcycle/two-wheeler routing, alternative route selection with map preview, shortened URLs, dragged routes, and one-click editing in gpx.studio. It is also available as a CLI tool (pip install gmaps2gpx) for batch conversion.

Does Google Maps support GPX files?

Google Maps does not natively import or export GPX files. However, you can convert Google Maps routes to GPX using gmaps2gpx, and import GPX files into Google My Maps (maps.google.com/mymaps) by uploading them as a new layer.

Is gmaps2gpx free to use?

Yes, gmaps2gpx is 100% free with no hidden fees, no signup required, and no usage limits. Both the web app and the CLI tool (pip install gmaps2gpx) are free and open source.

What GPS devices and apps are compatible with GPX files?

GPX is a universal GPS format supported by virtually all GPS devices and apps including: Garmin (Edge, Fenix, Forerunner, Zumo), Wahoo (ELEMNT, ROAM), Bryton, Suunto, Strava, Komoot, AllTrails, OsmAnd, Ride with GPS, Wikiloc, Gaia GPS, Google Earth, and many more.

Can I convert a shortened Google Maps link?

Yes. gmaps2gpx automatically resolves shortened Google Maps links (maps.app.goo.gl/... format). Just paste the shortened URL directly — no need to expand it first.

Does gmaps2gpx support motorcycle or two-wheeler routing?

Yes. gmaps2gpx supports motorcycle/two-wheeler routing via the Google Routes API. This is especially useful in India and Southeast Asia where two-wheeler routes differ from car routes. Select 'Motorcycle' mode before converting.

What is the difference between GPX and KML?

GPX (GPS Exchange Format) is the standard format for GPS devices and fitness apps. KML (Keyhole Markup Language) is Google's format used in Google Earth and Google My Maps. GPX is more widely supported by GPS hardware (Garmin, Wahoo, Suunto), while KML is better for visualization in Google products. gmaps2gpx outputs GPX 1.1, the most compatible format.

Is my route data stored on the server?

No. gmaps2gpx processes your route in real-time and does not store any route data, URLs, or personal information on the server. Your privacy is fully protected.

How to Export a Google Maps Route to Garmin

Convert any Google Maps directions URL into a GPX file and import it into your Garmin Edge, Fenix, Forerunner, Zumo, or any other Garmin GPS device.

The problem

You've planned the perfect route in Google Maps — maybe a cycling ride, a hiking trail, or a motorcycle tour. But Google Maps doesn't let you export routes as GPX files, and Garmin devices need GPX files for turn-by-turn course navigation. Garmin Connect can import GPX files, but first you need to create one from your Google Maps route.

Step 1: Convert Google Maps to GPX

Open your route in Google Maps and click Share to copy the link
Go to gmaps2gpx.vercel.app
Paste the URL, select your travel mode, and click Convert
If multiple routes appear, select the one you want
Click Download GPX

The GPX file will contain all the route coordinates, waypoints, and turn-by-turn navigation data that Garmin needs.

Step 2: Import GPX into Garmin Connect (Web)

Go to connect.garmin.com and sign in
Navigate to Training & Planning > Courses
Click Import (or the upload icon)
Select your downloaded GPX file
Review the course on the map, give it a name, and click Save

Step 3: Send the course to your Garmin device

In Garmin Connect, open the saved course
Click Send to Device and select your Garmin
Sync your device (via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or USB)
On your Garmin, go to Navigation > Courses to find and start the route

Alternative: USB file transfer

For Garmin devices that support USB mass storage (Edge series, some automotive units):

Connect your Garmin to your computer via USB
Open the Garmin drive in your file explorer
Copy the GPX file to the Garmin/NewFiles folder
Safely eject and disconnect. The course will appear under Navigation > Courses

Compatible Garmin devices

GPX files from gmaps2gpx work with all Garmin devices that support course navigation:

Garmin Edge 540 / 840 / 1040 / Explore

Garmin Fenix 7 / 8 / Enduro

Garmin Forerunner 265 / 965

Garmin Zumo XT / XT2 (motorcycle)

Garmin GPSMAP / Montana

Garmin Venu / Vivoactive

Motorcycle touring with Garmin Zumo

If you're planning a motorcycle route, select Motorcycle mode in gmaps2gpx before converting. This uses Google's Routes API with TWO_WHEELER travel mode, giving you routes optimized for motorbikes rather than cars. The resulting GPX file can be imported directly into your Garmin Zumo XT or XT2 for turn-by-turn navigation.

Ready to export your Google Maps route to Garmin?

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