Convert GPX to KML Online — Free & Instant
Convert GPS tracks, waypoints, and routes from GPX format to KML for viewing in Google Earth, Google Maps, or any KML-compatible application. Both formats use WGS 84 coordinates so no reprojection is needed.
Converter
When to convert GPX to KML
- View a hiking or cycling GPS track in Google Earth with 3D terrain.
- Share a GPS route with someone who uses Google Maps or Google Earth.
- Convert Garmin device exports to KML for client presentations.
- Overlay GPS tracks on satellite imagery in Google Earth Pro.
- Import field-collected GPS waypoints into Google My Maps.
How to convert GPX to KML
- 1
Upload your GPX file
Drag and drop your .gpx file onto the converter, or click to browse.
- 2
Select KML output
Click the KML button in the 'Convert to' section.
- 3
Click Convert file
Maparz converts your GPX file to KML using GDAL and downloads the result automatically.
- 4
Open in Google Earth
Double-click the downloaded .kml file to open it in Google Earth, or import it into Google My Maps via File → Import.
About GPX format
GPX (GPS Exchange Format) is an XML-based format for storing GPS data including waypoints, routes, and tracks. It is the de-facto standard for sharing GPS recordings from devices like Garmin, Suunto, and smartphones. GPX is natively supported by Google Earth, Strava, Komoot, Garmin Connect, and virtually every GPS application. A GPX file can contain three types of data: waypoints (individual points of interest), routes (ordered lists of waypoints for navigation), and tracks (continuous GPS recordings with timestamps). GDAL reads and writes GPX natively.
Strengths
- +Universal GPS device compatibility
- +Supported by Strava, Garmin, Google Earth
- +Contains timestamps and elevation data
- +Human-readable XML
About KML format
Keyhole Markup Language (KML) is an XML-based format developed for Google Earth and now maintained by the OGC. It is widely used in Google Maps, Google Earth, and many consumer-facing mapping applications. KML supports styled geometry, network links, folders, and time-based animations. It always uses geographic coordinates (WGS 84) and is stored as plain XML text. KMZ is simply a ZIP-compressed KML file, which can also include embedded images and other resources.
Strengths
- +Native in Google Earth and Google Maps
- +Supports rich styling and labels
- +Human-readable XML
Frequently asked questions
Is elevation data preserved in the KML?
Yes. GPX elevation data (ele elements) is mapped to KML altitude values in the output.
Can I open the KML in Google Maps?
Yes. In Google My Maps, click 'Import' and upload the KML file. Google Maps also supports KML via the map embed API.
What happens to GPX track timestamps?
Timestamps from GPX track points are converted to KML TimeStamp elements, enabling time-based animation in Google Earth.