SummitGPX Help Centre

FAQs

General

What is SummitGPX?

SummitGPX is a route hosting and visualisation platform for race organisers, event directors and outdoor organisations. It helps you import, manage, update and share routes without repeatedly sending files to participants.

Who is SummitGPX for?

SummitGPX is designed for:

  • Trail races
  • Ultra marathons
  • Running clubs
  • Walking events
  • Charity events
  • Outdoor organisations
  • Expeditions and challenges

How long does it take to set up a route?

Most routes can be imported and published in just a few minutes. If SummitGPX needs to prepare terrain data for generated elevation, the route may continue processing in the background and become available when ready.

For the recommended route setup sequence, see the Typical Organiser Workflow.

Can I try SummitGPX before paying?

Yes. You can get started with a free account and explore the platform before upgrading to a paid plan.

Routes & GPX Files

What happens if I need to change my route after I’ve shared it?

Starter, Pro and Enterprise accounts can replace the GPX file. You can also use the route editor to replace a section of the route. Existing links, embedded maps and QR codes continue to work and display the latest route.

Do I need to send runners a new GPX file every time the route changes?

No. SummitGPX helps keep runners on the latest version of the route without you needing to resend updated files manually.

Can SummitGPX email runners about a route change?

Yes. Route Updates lets you manage a route-specific recipient list, import recipients from CSV, preview and test an update email, then track delivery. Replacing a GPX does not send an email automatically.

Can I keep previous versions of a route?

Yes, on Pro and Enterprise accounts. Route version history stores earlier route lines, GPX files, statistics and update notes.

Can runners download GPX files?

Yes. Runners can download GPX files directly from public route pages. On Pro routes, GPX downloads can include saved checkpoints.

What route file formats are supported?

SummitGPX can import GPX, KML and FIT route files. KML and FIT sources are converted automatically into SummitGPX route data and can then be managed like a GPX import. Downloads can include GPX on all plans, KML and TCX on Starter and above, and FIT on Pro and Enterprise accounts. See Importing Route Files.

Can I reverse a route?

Yes. Open the route management page, expand Reverse route and confirm the change. The start and finish are swapped, existing checkpoints and their information are retained, and checkpoint positions are recalculated for the new direction. See Reverse a Route.

What is the GPX Health Check?

The Free GPX Health Check is SummitGPX's customer-facing GPX validator and GPX repair tool. It reviews a GPX file for common problems such as invalid structure, large gaps, duplicate points, poor elevation coverage and elevation spikes. Where repair is available, SummitGPX can create a cleaner GPX file.

For when to use it before upload, after edits, after GPX replacement and before publishing, see Using GPX Health Check in SummitGPX.

Can I split a route into section GPX files?

Yes, when split downloads are included. Organisers can add GPX split points to create a ZIP of section files. This is useful for long events, legs, support sections or device limits.

Can I share routes without embedding them?

Yes. Every route has its own public route page and shareable link that can be used in emails, websites, race instructions and social media.

Why use SummitGPX instead of sending GPX files by email?

Emailing GPX files can quickly lead to confusion when routes change. SummitGPX provides a single route page, QR code and embed that always display the latest route information.

The Typical Organiser Workflow shows how to upload, check, publish and update routes without repeatedly resending files.

QR Codes

QR codes link directly to a route’s public route page.

Will my QR codes still work if I update the route?

Yes. Route QR codes always point to the route page rather than a specific route version. You can update the route as many times as required without replacing the QR code.

If I print QR codes on race packs, what happens if the route changes later?

Nothing needs replacing. The QR code continues to work and automatically displays the latest version of the route.

Where can I use route QR codes?

QR codes can be used on:

  • Race packs
  • Start line signage
  • Checkpoint boards
  • Printed guides
  • Event websites
  • Social media
  • Registration materials

Checkpoints & Elevation

Can I add checkpoints and aid stations?

Yes, on Pro and Enterprise accounts. Checkpoints can mark aid stations, water points, cut offs, summits, crew points and other key route locations.

Can SummitGPX import checkpoints from a GPX file?

Yes. Suitable named GPX waypoints can be imported as checkpoints. Generic navigation points and large waypoint sets are ignored to keep route pages clear.

Are checkpoints shown on the elevation profile?

Yes. Checkpoints can be displayed directly on the interactive elevation profile.

Can checkpoints be included in GPX downloads?

Yes, on Pro and Enterprise accounts. Checkpoints can be included in GPX and supported course downloads for compatible devices and navigation apps.

Can I choose which points appear on a GPS watch?

Yes. Each checkpoint has a Show on GPS/watch switch and a device point type such as water, food, first aid, summit or danger. The route also has a master Included/Excluded checkpoint downloads setting.

Does SummitGPX support route playback?

Yes, on Pro and Enterprise accounts. Route playback allows participants to preview the route using the map and elevation profile before race day.

How does SummitGPX handle elevation?

SummitGPX keeps original GPX elevation when it is useful. If elevation is missing, flat or unreliable, SummitGPX can generate elevation from terrain data while keeping the original route line.

Embeds & Route Pages

Can I embed routes on my website?

Yes, on Pro and Enterprise accounts. Interactive route maps can be embedded directly into your website.

Do embedded routes update automatically?

Yes. Embedded routes always display the latest published route version.

Can I customise the route page with my own branding?

Pro and Enterprise accounts can customise embed branding, including logo, browser tab icon, theme, accent colour, button style and SummitGPX footer branding. Hosted SummitGPX route pages keep the SummitGPX page structure.

Do runners need a SummitGPX account?

No. Public route pages can be viewed without creating a SummitGPX account.

Does SummitGPX work on mobile devices?

Yes. Route pages and embeds are designed to work across desktop, tablet and mobile devices.

Can I choose between miles and kilometres?

Yes. Organisers currently set the saved route default as either kilometres with metres or miles with feet. They can also enable Allow runners to choose units. When enabled, runners choose distance as kilometres or miles and elevation as metres or feet independently. See Distance and Elevation Units.

Account & Billing

Can I change plans at any time?

Yes. Plans can be upgraded or downgraded whenever your requirements change.

How are payments processed?

All payments are processed securely through Stripe.

Can I add team members?

Yes, on Pro and Enterprise accounts. Owners and admins can invite team members as Admin or Member users.

Where can I access invoices?

Invoices are available through the billing section of your account.

Support

I can’t find the answer I’m looking for.

If you are signed in, choose Help & support from the account menu to create a ticket, attach relevant files and follow replies. You can optionally link a Product support request to an event and route. See Support Tickets.

We’re always happy to help.