What Is a GPX File? Format, Usage, and Compatibility

Have you heard of the GPX format but aren't quite sure what it is? This article provides an overview of this essential standard in the world of GPS.

GPX: Definition

GPX stands for GPS Exchange Format. It’s an XML-based text file format created in 2002 that allows GPS data to be exchanged between different devices and software programs. Today, it’s the universal standard in the worlds of hiking, trail running, cycling, and navigation.

What’s in a GPX file?

A GPX file can contain three types of data:

• Waypoints (WPT): individual points of interest (mountain peaks, shelters, trailheads, etc.)
• Routes (RTE): a sequence of waypoints forming a planned route
• Tracks (TRK): a continuous record of your actual route, with latitude, longitude, elevation, and timestamps for each point

Which devices generate GPX files?

Virtually all modern GPS devices: Garmin, Suunto, Polar, and COROS smartwatches; phones with apps like Strava, Komoot, and OsmAnd; and Wahoo and Garmin Edge bike computers.

How do you open and analyze a GPX file?

There are many tools available for viewing a GPX file. For detailed analysis—elevation profile, segment breakdown, elevation gain per segment—Segly is the most comprehensive solution, with no registration required.

Simply drag and drop your GPX file onto the Segly homepage.