.gpx File Extension

GPS Exchange Format

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What is a .gpx file?

The GPX (GPS Exchange Format) file format is an XML schema designed for transferring GPS data between applications and web services. It is an open and widely adopted standard for storing and exchanging waypoint, route, and track data. GPX files contain information such as latitude, longitude, elevation, timestamp, and other attributes associated with geographic locations. This makes it ideal for sharing GPS data collected from devices like handheld GPS units, smartphones, and vehicle navigation systems. The format's human-readable XML structure allows for easy parsing and manipulation by various software tools and programming languages. GPX is commonly used in mapping applications, geographic information systems (GIS), and outdoor navigation software for planning routes, recording tracks, and sharing location data with others. It's a versatile format that facilitates interoperability between different GPS-enabled devices and platforms, making it a cornerstone of modern location-based services and applications.

.gpx File

GPS Exchange Format

Compatible Software Alternatives

Software Compatibility

Windows

  • Garmin BaseCamp
  • QGIS
  • GPSBabel
  • ExpertGPS
  • VLC media player (with plugin)

macOS

  • Garmin BaseCamp
  • QGIS
  • GPSBabel
  • VLC media player (with plugin)
  • RouteConverter

Linux

  • QGIS
  • GPSBabel
  • VLC media player (with plugin)
  • Marble
  • GpsPrune

Mobile

  • GPX Viewer (Android/iOS)
  • OsmAnd (Android/iOS)
  • Locus Map (Android)
  • Gaia GPS (Android/iOS)

Alternative File Formats

Related Categories

Data Files Archive FilesAudio FilesDocument Files

Frequently Asked Questions About .gpx Files

To open a .gpx file, you need compatible software. Here are some options:

  • Garmin BaseCamp
  • QGIS
  • GPX Viewer (Android/iOS)

Check the "Software Compatibility" section above for a complete list of programs that can open .gpx files on different operating systems.

To convert a .gpx file to another format, you can:

  1. Use compatible software: Many programs that open .gpx files also allow saving or exporting to different formats. For example, you might try using Garmin BaseCamp or Garmin BaseCamp.
  2. Try online conversion services: Websites like Zamzar, CloudConvert, or Online-Convert can transform files between formats without installing software.
  3. Convert to recommended alternatives: For .gpx files, consider converting to .KML, .KMZ, .GeoJSON for better compatibility.
  4. Specialized conversion tools: Search for ".gpx converter" to find tools specifically designed for this file type.

Note: Converting files may result in some loss of formatting, quality, or functionality depending on the compatibility between formats.

If you're having trouble opening a .gpx file, try these troubleshooting steps:

  1. Verify the file extension is correct: Sometimes files may be incorrectly named. Make sure the file truly is a .gpx file.
  2. Update your software: Ensure you're using the latest version of your chosen program.
  3. Try alternative software: If one program doesn't work, try another from our compatibility list.
  4. Check for file corruption: The file might be damaged. Try to obtain a new copy if possible.
  5. Look for file converters: Converting to a more common format might help.

Like any file type, .gpx files can be safe or potentially risky depending on their source:

  • From trusted sources: Files from reputable websites, colleagues, or friends are generally safe.
  • From unknown sources: Exercise caution with files from unfamiliar websites or emails.

Safety recommendations:

  • Always scan files with antivirus software before opening them
  • Keep your operating system and applications updated
  • Be particularly cautious with executable file types

Common issues with .gpx files include:

  • Compatibility problems: Older or newer versions of software may not fully support certain .gpx files
  • Missing elements: Fonts, media, or other components may not transfer correctly between systems
  • File corruption: Incomplete downloads or transfer errors can damage files
  • Format variations: Different software may implement the .gpx format in slightly different ways

If you're experiencing issues with a specific .gpx file, you might need to:

  • Try opening it with alternative software
  • Ask the file creator to save it in a different format
  • Look for specific patches or updates for your software

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