Free GPX to KML Converter – Transform GPS Tracks for Google Earth
Convert your GPX files to KML format instantly with our free, browser-based converter. Perfect for viewing GPS tracks, hiking routes, and waypoints in Google Earth, Google Maps, and other mapping applications.
Why Convert GPX to KML?
GPX (GPS Exchange Format) files contain GPS data including tracks, routes, and waypoints from your GPS devices or fitness apps. Converting GPX to KML allows you to:
- View in Google Earth: Import GPS tracks and waypoints directly into Google Earth for 3D visualization
- Share outdoor adventures: Convert hiking, cycling, or running tracks for easy sharing
- Create custom maps: Display GPS data in mapping applications that support KML
- Analyze routes: Better visualize elevation profiles and route details in Google Earth
- Archive activities: Convert fitness app exports to universal KML format for long-term storage
- Professional presentations: Include GPS data in reports, research, or marketing materials
GPX to KML Converter
Upload a GPX file, preview on the map, and download styled KML. Fully client-side.
KML styling
Export
How to Use the GPX to KML Converter
Step 1: Prepare Your GPX File
Ensure your GPX file contains the data you want to convert:
- Waypoints: Individual GPS coordinates with names and descriptions
- Tracks: Continuous GPS recordings (hiking trails, bike rides, runs)
- Routes: Planned paths between waypoints
- Metadata: Additional information like timestamps and elevation
Supported GPX sources:
- Garmin GPS devices
- Strava exports
- AllTrails downloads
- Gaia GPS
- Komoot routes
- Hiking and fitness apps
- Handheld GPS units
Step 2: Upload Your GPX File
- Click “Choose File” and select your GPX file
- The tool automatically parses all GPX elements:
- Waypoints appear as individual points
- Tracks display as continuous lines
- Routes show as connected paths
- Names and descriptions are preserved
Step 3: Customize Your KML Styling
Personalize the appearance of your converted KML:
Point Styling:
- Point Color: Choose marker colors using the color picker
- Point Scale: Adjust waypoint marker size (0.2x to 3x)
- Custom Icons: Use your own icon URLs or default Google Earth pins
Track/Route Styling:
- Line Color: Set track and route colors
- Line Width: Adjust track thickness (1-10 pixels)
- Live Preview: See changes instantly on the map
Step 4: Preview and Export
- View your GPX data plotted on the interactive map
- Verify tracks and waypoints appear correctly
- Adjust styling as needed with live preview
- Click “Download KML” to save your converted file
- Import into Google Earth, Google Maps, or your preferred mapping application
Example GPX Use Cases
Hiking and Outdoor Activities
Convert trail GPS tracks from your Garmin device or hiking app to share routes with fellow hikers or document your adventures.
Cycling and Running Routes
Transform Strava or fitness app exports into KML files for analysis in Google Earth or sharing with training partners.
Travel Documentation
Convert GPS tracks from road trips, walking tours, or travel routes into visual maps for trip reports or travel blogs.
Professional Surveying
Transform survey GPS data into KML format for GIS analysis, client presentations, or project documentation.
Supported GPX Features
Track Elements:
- Track segments with continuous GPS points
- Timestamps and elevation data preservation
- Multiple tracks in single GPX file
- Track names and descriptions
Waypoint Elements:
- Individual GPS coordinates
- Waypoint names and descriptions
- Elevation information
- Custom waypoint symbols
Route Elements:
- Planned routes between waypoints
- Route names and descriptions
- Turn-by-turn navigation points
Generated KML Features:
- Standard KML 2.2 format
- Custom styling for points and tracks
- Preserved metadata from original GPX
- Compatible with Google Earth, Google Maps, ArcGIS
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
General Questions
Q: Is this GPX to KML converter free to use? A: Yes, our converter is completely free with no registration, limits, or hidden fees. Convert as many GPX files as you need.
Q: Do I need to install software or create an account? A: No installation or registration required. The converter runs entirely in your web browser using modern web technologies.
Q: Is my GPS data secure and private? A: Absolutely. All processing happens locally in your browser. Your GPX files are never uploaded to our servers, ensuring complete privacy of your location data.
Q: What devices and apps can export GPX files? A: Most GPS devices and fitness apps support GPX export, including Garmin, TomTom, Strava, AllTrails, Gaia GPS, Komoot, and many others.
File Format Questions
Q: What’s the difference between GPX and KML? A: GPX is primarily used by GPS devices and fitness apps, while KML is Google’s format for mapping applications. KML offers better styling options and broader compatibility with mapping software.
Q: Can I convert large GPX files with thousands of track points? A: Yes, the tool handles large GPX files efficiently. Performance depends on your browser and device, but files with several thousand points typically process smoothly.
Q: Will elevation data from my GPX be preserved? A: Yes, elevation information is maintained in the converted KML file and will display properly in Google Earth’s 3D view.
Q: Can I convert multiple tracks in one GPX file? A: Absolutely. If your GPX contains multiple tracks, routes, or waypoints, they’ll all be converted and styled appropriately in the output KML.
Styling and Customization
Q: Can I change the appearance of my tracks and waypoints? A: Yes! You can customize:
- Point colors and sizes for waypoints
- Line colors and widths for tracks/routes
- Custom icon URLs for waypoint markers
- Live preview updates as you make changes
Q: Will my track and waypoint names be preserved? A: Yes, all names, descriptions, and metadata from your original GPX file are maintained in the converted KML.
Q: Can I use custom icons for waypoints? A: Yes, you can specify custom icon URLs. The tool defaults to standard Google Earth pushpins, but you can use any web-accessible icon image.
Q: Why do my tracks appear as separate segments? A: GPX files often contain track segments (separate recording sessions). Each segment becomes a separate line in the KML, which is the correct behavior for most use cases.
Google Earth and Mapping Software
Q: How do I open the KML file in Google Earth? A: Open Google Earth, go to File > Open (or File > Import), select your downloaded KML file. Your tracks and waypoints will appear with the styling you chose.
Q: Will my KML work in Google Earth Web? A: Yes, our KML files are compatible with Google Earth Web, Google Earth Pro, and Google Earth Mobile applications.
Q: Can I use the KML in other mapping software? A: Yes, KML is supported by most GIS and mapping applications including ArcGIS, QGIS, MapInfo, Avenza Maps, and many mobile mapping apps.
Q: Why don’t my tracks show elevation in Google Maps? A: Google Maps has limited KML support compared to Google Earth. For full 3D elevation viewing, use Google Earth instead.
Troubleshooting
Q: The converter says “Failed to parse GPX” – what’s wrong? A: This usually indicates:
- The file isn’t valid GPX format
- The file is corrupted or empty
- Special characters are causing parsing issues Try re-exporting from your GPS device or app, ensuring you select GPX format.
Q: My tracks appear in the wrong location. A: Check that your GPX file uses the correct coordinate system (WGS84 is standard). Some older GPS devices may use different coordinate systems.
Q: Some waypoints or tracks are missing from the conversion. A: Verify your original GPX file contains the data by opening it in a text editor. Empty track segments or waypoints without coordinates will be skipped.
Q: The preview map is blank or not loading. A: Ensure:
- JavaScript is enabled in your browser
- You’re using a modern browser (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge)
- No browser extensions are blocking map functionality
- Try refreshing the page and re-uploading your GPX file
Technical Questions
Q: What technologies power this converter? A: The tool uses:
- toGeoJSON library for GPX parsing
- Leaflet for interactive mapping
- Standard KML 2.2 output format
- Pure JavaScript (no server processing)
Q: Can I batch convert multiple GPX files? A: Currently, the tool processes one GPX file at a time. For bulk conversion, you’ll need to convert each file individually.
Q: Does the tool work offline? A: The tool requires an internet connection to load the mapping components, but once loaded, GPX processing happens locally in your browser.
Q: Can I convert KML back to GPX? A: This tool only converts GPX to KML. For reverse conversion, you’ll need specialized GIS software or a different online converter.
Common Use Cases
Outdoor Recreation
- Hiking trails: Convert AllTrails or Gaia GPS downloads for Google Earth viewing
- Cycling routes: Transform Strava ride exports into shareable KML files
- Running tracks: Convert fitness app data for route analysis and sharing
- Geocaching: Transform geocache GPX downloads for mapping applications
Professional Applications
- Land surveying: Convert survey GPS data for client presentations
- Research fieldwork: Transform field GPS data into professional mapping formats
- Environmental monitoring: Convert monitoring route data for analysis and reporting
- Construction planning: Transform site survey data for project visualization
Travel and Documentation
- Road trip routes: Convert GPS tracks from scenic drives or travel routes
- Photography locations: Transform photo GPS data into location maps
- Travel blogging: Create visual maps from GPS tracks for trip documentation
- Adventure sports: Convert kayaking, climbing, or skiing GPS tracks
Education and Training
- Geography lessons: Convert educational GPS data for classroom mapping exercises
- Outdoor education: Transform field trip routes for educational presentations
- Training analysis: Convert athlete GPS data for performance analysis
- Search and rescue: Transform training exercise data for debriefing sessions
Tips for Best Results
- Use high-quality GPX exports: Choose the highest detail setting when exporting from your GPS device or app
- Check coordinate systems: Ensure your GPX uses WGS84 coordinates for best compatibility
- Clean up data first: Remove unnecessary waypoints or track segments before conversion
- Choose appropriate styling: Consider your final viewing application when selecting colors and sizes
- Test in target application: Verify your KML displays correctly in your intended mapping software
- Keep metadata: Include descriptions and names in your GPX for richer KML output
Supported GPS Devices and Apps
GPS Devices:
- Garmin (all models supporting GPX export)
- TomTom GPS units
- Magellan GPS devices
- Lowrance GPS/fishfinders
- Humminbird GPS units
Fitness and Outdoor Apps:
- Strava (activity exports)
- AllTrails (trail downloads)
- Gaia GPS (track exports)
- Komoot (route planning)
- MapMyRun/MapMyRide
- Endomondo
- Runkeeper
- Wikiloc
Mapping and Navigation Apps:
- Google Earth (existing GPX imports)
- Avenza Maps
- Gaia GPS
- BackCountry Navigator
- OruxMaps
- Locus Map
Get Started Now
Ready to convert your GPX tracks and waypoints to KML format? Use our free tool above to transform your GPS data into professional mapping files in seconds. No registration required, completely secure, and works with all major GPS devices and applications.
Need help? Our converter automatically handles all GPX elements including tracks, routes, and waypoints. The live preview lets you see exactly how your data will appear in the final KML. If you encounter any issues, refer to our comprehensive FAQ section above.
Last updated: August 2025. This tool is provided free of charge for personal and commercial use.
