What is a GPX file? Format, usage and compatibility

Have you heard about the GPX format without really knowing what it is? This article covers everything about this essential GPS standard.

GPX: definition

GPX stands for GPS Exchange Format. It is an XML-based text file format, created in 2002, which allows GPS data to be exchanged between different devices and software. It is today the universal standard in the world of hiking, trail running, cycling and navigation.

What does a GPX file contain?

A GPX file can contain three types of data:

• Waypoints (WPT): isolated points of interest (summit, refuge, trailhead...)
• Routes (RTE): a sequence of waypoints forming a planned itinerary
• Tracks (TRK): the continuous recording of your actual route, with latitude, longitude, altitude and timestamp for each point

Which devices generate GPX files?

Practically all modern GPS devices: Garmin, Suunto, Polar, COROS smart watches, phones with apps like Strava, Komoot, OsmAnd, or GPS cycling devices like Wahoo and Garmin Edge.

How to open and analyse a GPX file?

Many tools allow you to view a GPX file. For detailed analysis — elevation profile, segmentation, elevation gain per segment — Segly is the most complete solution, with no registration required.

Simply drag and drop your GPX file onto Segly's home page.