What is GPX?
GPX (GPS Exchange Format) is a universal format for:
- Sharing routes between apps
- Backing up your activities
- Loading trails onto GPS devices
- Planning with other tools
Exporting a Trail
Single Activity
- Open the activity you want to export
- Tap Share (share icon)
- Select Export GPX
- Choose save location or share method
From Activity List
- Go to Profile then Activities
- Long-press an activity
- Tap Export
- Choose GPX format
Export Options
Track Data
- Route only - Just the path
- Full track - Include all recorded points
- Simplified - Reduced point count
Include Timestamps
- Yes - Preserve timing data
- No - Export route only (smaller file)
Include Elevation
- Original - Use recorded elevation
- Corrected - Apply elevation correction
Waypoints
- Include marked waypoints
- Export waypoint names and notes
Export Destinations
Save to Device
- Downloads folder
- Files app
- Custom location
Share Directly
- Email attachment
- Messaging apps
- AirDrop (iOS)
- Nearby Share (Android)
Cloud Storage
- Google Drive
- Dropbox
- iCloud Drive
- OneDrive
Bulk Export
Export multiple activities:
- Go to Profile then Activities
- Tap Select
- Choose activities to export
- Tap Export All
- Files save as individual GPX or ZIP archive
GPX File Contents
A typical exported GPX includes:
<gpx>
<trk>
<name>Morning Hike</name>
<trkseg>
<trkpt lat="32.1234" lon="-117.4567">
<ele>156</ele>
<time>2024-01-15T08:30:00Z</time>
</trkpt>
<!-- More track points -->
</trkseg>
</trk>
</gpx>
Compatible Applications
Export to use with:
- GPS Devices: Garmin, Suunto, Coros
- Desktop: Google Earth, QGIS, GPXSee
- Mobile: Other hiking/outdoor apps
- Web: CalTopo, Gaia GPS, onX
Privacy Considerations
When sharing GPX files:
- Files contain exact coordinates
- Timestamps reveal when you were there
- Consider trimming start/end near home
Truncate Endpoints
- During export, enable Privacy Mode
- First/last 200m of track removed
- Protects your home location
Troubleshooting
Export Failed
- Check device storage
- Verify activity has GPS data
- Try restarting the app
Coordinates Wrong
- Check export coordinate system
- Verify original recording was accurate
File Too Large
- Use simplified export
- Remove timestamps
- Export without photos
Premium Features
Free users can export:
- Individual activities
- Basic GPX format
Premium adds:
- Bulk export
- Additional formats
- Cloud integration
- Advanced options