Understanding GPX

Routes versus tracks

Choose a detailed course line for a fixed race route.

A GPX track is an ordered, detailed series of recorded or planned positions. A GPX route is a sequence of route points that another app may use for navigation or route calculation.

For a fixed race course

Prefer a detailed track export when your planner offers one. It better describes the intended bends, switchbacks and paths. A sparse set of route points can be joined or recalculated differently by the receiving device.

How SummitGPX reads them

SummitGPX reads track points first. If there are none, it can use route points. It needs at least two usable positions. Importing sparse route points does not automatically recreate every path between them, so inspect the map for straight-line shortcuts.

Check before sharing

• Export the full course rather than a selected segment.
• Compare tight turns, junctions and out-and-back sections with the intended race line.
• Download the processed GPX and test it in the device workflow your runners will use.

Next steps

• Import the course
• Avoid losing important points
• Check file quality