How to create a GPX file The Modern Geek
How to create a GPX file ?
GPX was developed to facilitate the recording and sharing of GPS data. Thus, this file format is often downloaded by mountain biking, hiking, trail running and mountain escapades enthusiasts. It will allow you to prepare a run and follow the route with precision.
You can also create a walking course with ease thanks to this system.
What the GPX format is used for ?
The GPX format is a contraction of the English terms GPS and exchange
Thus, the hikers or the cyclists
Today, there is a wide variety of interactive maps with GPX tracks
You also need to know your progress in relation to the entire route.
Finally, the GPX is essential for do not deviate from your route. This is very important from a practical and safety point of view. Seemingly harmless, deviating from the route may put you in danger, especially on the passes.
This aspect of hiking has also led to guidance by beacons, cairns, etc.
Why use this type of file when hiking ?
Hiking enthusiasts trekking often insist on the essential aspect of GPS tracks when hiking. They will allow to reach your goal in complete safety
However, you may be confronted with impassable or dangerous paths, by deviating from the planned route.
You will also reduce the elevation gain and the distance of the route, if you manage to follow the available GPX tracks. This data is often shared by people who have already managed to reach the summit in question. This will allow you to avoid the mistakes they have already made.
In the end, you optimize the management of your efforts and your time.
The GPX is precisely adapted, because it is easy to find, share and import in GPS applications
In addition, the company offers regular updates of programs and maps via Garmin Express.
Where to download this type of file ?
Many web platforms currently offer a tab dedicated to GPX file downloads. This practice is particularly common on the pages specialized in mountain biking, trekking, hiking, etc. Tourism professionals are also starting to use them.
You should therefore find these files quite easily on the Internet.
You can, for example, look for GPX tracks on some websites like Visorando or Wikiloc. These collaborative platforms invite trail or snowshoe enthusiasts to retrace the route of their escapades. You can compare several tracks and choose the best route.
The specialized blogs often do the same by presenting several GPX files to visitors.
In addition to the GPX routes, this type of page provides various information such as the average speed required. Some Internet users evaluate the level of difficulty of the route for running and runners profiles. Other users can also post comments or photos of the terrain.
Thus, you can already visualize the track after having downloaded it.
How to create a GPS file ?
There are a myriad of sites to create a GPX file, app, like in My GPS File or from Google My Maps. Backed by Google Maps, this service allows you to trace the most suitable route for your activity (trail, geocaching, etc.).). However, you will need your Google account and a detailed tutorial to use it successfully.
On My GPS File however, you will immediately be asked to choose the type of background map to display. Check the option Relief, in map mode, to get a better overview of the terrain to explore. Zoom in then up to 1/2000.
Finally click on Create in the drop-down menu Trace.
At this stage, the cursor will turn into a cross to define your routes point by point. It is highly recommended to set a Waypoint every 20 meters
Finally, save the file in GPX format (.gpx). Other services can also use IGN maps, Google earth pro or any other geoportal.
