How to Create Custom GPX Routes

GPX files are the lingua franca of outdoor navigation. Short for "GPS Exchange Format," GPX is a universal file format that stores routes, tracks, and waypoints. Any hiking app worth using can import and export GPX files, making them perfect for sharing routes and planning custom adventures.

In this tutorial, I'll show you how to create your own GPX routes from scratch, edit existing routes, and share them with friends or import them into your favorite navigation app.

What's Inside a GPX File?

At its core, a GPX file is just an XML text file containing GPS coordinates. Here's a simplified example:

The key elements are:

• Tracks (trk): A recorded path with a sequence of points
• Track Points (trkpt): Individual GPS coordinates along the track
• Waypoints (wpt): Specific locations marked separately (camps, viewpoints)
• Routes (rte): Planned routes with fewer waypoints (for turn-by-turn)

Best Tools for Creating GPX Files

Method 1: Create a Route in CalTopo (Free)

CalTopo is a free web-based mapping tool beloved by backpackers and Search & Rescue teams. It offers powerful route planning with USGS topo maps.

Method 2: Create a Route in Gaia GPS

Gaia GPS offers route creation on both their web app and mobile app. The web version is easier for detailed planning.

Method 3: Record a Track While Hiking

The simplest way to create a GPX file is to record your actual hike. Most hiking apps do this automatically:

1. Start GPS recording before you hike (button varies by app)
2. Complete your hike with the recording running
3. Stop recording and save the track
4. Export the track as GPX from the app's settings or track details

Recorded tracks are valuable because they reflect the actual path, including any detours or route discoveries you made in the field.

Importing GPX Files Into Hiking Apps

AllTrails

1. Open AllTrails on web or mobile
2. Go to Create → Create Map (web) or tap + (mobile)
3. Select Import GPX
4. Choose your file and upload

Gaia GPS

1. Go to Import on web or tap the folder icon on mobile
2. Select your GPX file
3. The route/track will appear in your saved items and sync across devices

Organic Maps

1. Open the GPX file with Organic Maps (use "Open With" on your phone)
2. The track will import as a bookmark layer
3. It remains available offline

Editing GPX Files

Sometimes you need to modify an existing GPX file—trimming the beginning, removing errors, or combining routes. Here are your options:

Web-Based Editors

• gpx.studio — Free browser-based GPX editor with excellent features
• CalTopo — Import GPX, edit, re-export
• Gaia GPS web — Edit imported tracks in your account

Desktop Software

• GPX Editor — Dedicated Windows/Mac app for GPX editing
• Google Earth Pro — Import GPX/KML, edit paths, export
• QMapShack — Open source, powerful route planning

Text Editing

GPX files are just XML text. For simple edits (changing the name, removing waypoints), you can open the file in any text editor and modify it directly. Just be careful with the formatting.

Sharing GPX Routes

Email or Messaging

The simplest method—just attach the .gpx file to an email or message. The recipient can import it into their preferred app.

Cloud Storage

Upload to Google Drive, Dropbox, or iCloud and share the link. Recipients can download and import.

AllTrails and Gaia GPS Sharing

Both apps have built-in sharing. In AllTrails, make your custom map public. In Gaia, share routes via link or directly to other Gaia users.

GPX Repository Sites

Sites like Wikiloc and GPSies let you upload and share routes publicly. Great for popular trails you want to document.

Common GPX Issues & Solutions

Route Won't Import

Usually a formatting issue. Try opening in gpx.studio and re-exporting with cleaned-up formatting.

Route Looks "Spiky"

GPS errors create points that jump around. Use a smoothing tool (gpx.studio has this) to clean up the track.

Elevation Data Missing

Some GPX files lack elevation. Tools like gpx.studio can add elevation data from digital elevation models.

Track Too Large

Long tracks with many points create huge files. Use a simplify/reduce points tool to decrease file size while preserving the general route shape.

Summary

GPX files are essential for anyone who plans custom hiking routes or wants to share their adventures. Whether you prefer web-based tools like CalTopo, premium apps like Gaia GPS, or simply recording your hikes in the field, you now have the knowledge to create, edit, and share GPX routes.

Start simple—record your next hike, export the GPX, and share it with a friend. Once you're comfortable, try planning a route in CalTopo and importing it to your phone. Before long, you'll be creating custom adventures that no guidebook has ever documented.