Elevation Profiles

Every route uploaded to SummitGPX includes an interactive elevation profile that displays climbs, descents and key route features.

The elevation profile is linked to the route map, allowing runners to explore the course in greater detail.

What is an Elevation Profile?

An elevation profile is a graphical representation of how elevation changes throughout a route.

It helps runners visualise:

• Climbs
• Descents
• Flat sections
• Total ascent
• Total descent
• Checkpoint locations

This information can be used for pacing, nutrition planning and race preparation.

Interactive Elevation Profiles

SummitGPX elevation profiles are fully interactive.

Runners can:

• Move along the elevation profile
• See their position on the route map
• Explore individual climbs and descents
• Understand where key features occur along the course

As the position changes on the elevation profile, the corresponding location is highlighted on the map.

Checkpoints on Elevation Profiles

When checkpoints have been added to a route, they can be displayed directly on the elevation profile.

This allows runners to see where:

• Aid stations
• Water points
• Marshal locations
• Cut off points
• Other key course features

appear in relation to the terrain.

Checkpoint labels make it easier to understand the route at a glance.

Route Statistics

Elevation profiles are accompanied by route statistics, including:

• Distance
• Total ascent
• Total descent
• Highest point
• Lowest point

These values are automatically calculated when a route is processed.

Elevation Data Sources

SummitGPX can use different sources of elevation data depending on the route configuration.

These may include:

• Original GPX elevation data
• SummitGPX generated elevation data

The elevation source used for a route is displayed within SummitGPX.

Why Elevation Data Matters

Elevation information can vary significantly depending on how a GPX file was created.

Accurate elevation data helps organisers:

• Provide consistent route information
• Improve route statistics
• Reduce discrepancies between planning tools
• Give runners a clearer understanding of the course

Understanding Ascent and Descent

Total ascent represents the combined amount of climbing throughout the route.

Total descent represents the combined amount of descending throughout the route.

These figures are often more useful than simply looking at the highest and lowest points on a course.

Best Practice

For the best results:

• Review elevation data after uploading a route
• Check ascent and descent figures for unexpected values
• Verify that checkpoints appear in the correct locations
• Use SummitGPX generated elevation data where appropriate

Accurate elevation information helps runners prepare more effectively and improves confidence in route information.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the elevation different from another platform?

Different platforms use different elevation models and calculation methods. Small differences between services are normal.

Why did the ascent change after updating a route?

Route updates, checkpoint changes and elevation recalculations can all affect ascent and descent values.

Does SummitGPX calculate elevation automatically?

Yes. Elevation profiles and route statistics are generated automatically when a route is processed.