Understanding GPX

Understanding GPX files

A practical route-file guide for race organisers.

You do not need to edit XML to publish a course. It helps to know which part of a GPX describes the line, which points mark aid stations, and why two apps can show different ascent totals.

Choose a topic

• What a GPX contains
• Tracks versus routes
• Waypoints and checkpoints
• Elevation sources and totals
• Check and repair a GPX
• Watch and app import problems
• Point counts and simplification
• GPX versions and extra data
• How SummitGPX processes an import

For race preparation

Export the full intended course, inspect it, import it into the correct event, then test the file runners will actually download. A successful file check cannot confirm land access, route safety or the position of an aid station. Use the organiser workflow for the full sequence.