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.

GPX vs KML: What's the Difference?

Both GPX and KML are XML-based formats for storing geographic data, but they serve different purposes. Here's when to use each one.

Quick comparison

Feature	GPX	KML
Full name	GPS Exchange Format	Keyhole Markup Language
Created by	Topografix (open standard)	Google (originally Keyhole)
Primary use	GPS navigation & fitness tracking	Visualization & presentation
GPS device support	Excellent (universal)	Limited
Google Earth	Supported	Native format
Strava / Komoot	Native import	Not supported
Styling (colors, icons)	Limited	Rich styling
Data types	Waypoints, tracks, routes	Placemarks, paths, polygons, overlays
Compressed variant	—	KMZ (zipped KML)

What is GPX?

GPX (GPS Exchange Format) is an open XML standard designed for transferring GPS data between devices and software. It stores three types of data: waypoints (individual points of interest), tracks (recorded paths with timestamps), and routes (planned sequences of waypoints).

GPX is the de facto standard for GPS hardware. Every Garmin, Wahoo, Bryton, Suunto, Polar, and COROS device reads GPX files natively. Fitness apps like Strava, Komoot, AllTrails, and Ride with GPS all import and export GPX. If you need to get a route onto a GPS device, GPX is the format to use.

What is KML?

KML (Keyhole Markup Language) was developed by Keyhole, Inc. and later acquired by Google. It's the native format for Google Earth and Google My Maps. KML is more expressive than GPX — it supports rich styling (colors, line widths, icons), 3D models, image overlays, and complex polygons.

KMZ is the compressed version of KML (a ZIP file containing a KML file and any referenced images). Google My Maps exports in KMZ format by default.

When to use GPX

Importing routes into Garmin, Wahoo, Bryton, Suunto or any GPS device
Uploading activities to Strava, Komoot, AllTrails, Ride with GPS
Sharing routes with other cyclists, hikers, runners, or motorcyclists
When you need universal compatibility across devices and apps
Recording and analyzing GPS tracks with elevation and heart rate data

When to use KML

Visualizing data in Google Earth or Google My Maps
Creating styled maps with custom icons, colors, and overlays
Sharing geographic data that includes polygons, boundaries, or regions
Embedding maps in presentations or websites

Converting between GPX and KML

If you have a Google Maps route and need a GPX file (the most common scenario), use gmaps2gpx to convert directly. For converting between existing GPX and KML files, gpx.studio and GPS Visualizer both handle format conversion.

Bottom line

Use GPX if you want to navigate a route on a GPS device or share it with fitness apps. Use KML if you want to create styled visualizations in Google Earth. For most people converting Google Maps routes for outdoor activities, GPX is the right choice — it's supported everywhere that matters.

Need a GPX file from Google Maps?

Convert now with gmaps2gpx →