KML to GPX Converter
Convert KML files to GPX format for universal GPS device compatibility
Your Data is Secure
All file conversions happen directly in your browser. We never upload, store, or save your files on any server. Your data remains completely private and secure.
How to Convert KML to GPX
Follow these simple steps to convert your files quickly and easily
Upload Your KML File
Click the upload area above or drag and drop your KML file. Select a .kml file from Google Earth, Google Maps, or other KML-compatible software.
Click Convert
Click the convert button to process your KML file. The converter extracts tracks and routes, converting them to standard GPX format with full metadata preservation.
Download Your GPX File
Once conversion is complete, download your new GPX file. Use it with GPS devices, fitness trackers, or import into mapping and navigation software.
About KML to GPX Conversion
Learn more about the converter and its creator
Jonas
I'm a software developer and sports enthusiast. I created these converters to help athletes manage their workout data efficiently.
Understanding KML to GPX Conversion
Converting KML (Keyhole Markup Language) files to GPX (GPS Exchange Format) allows you to transform Google Earth tracks and routes into a universally supported GPS format. This conversion makes your KML data compatible with GPS devices, fitness trackers, and most mapping applications.
What Data is Preserved?
The conversion process maintains essential track and route data, including:
- GPS coordinates (latitude and longitude) from all trackpoints
- Elevation data from 3D coordinates
- Timestamp information (from gx:Track elements)
- Track names and descriptions
- Heart rate data (from extended data)
- Power output (from extended data)
- Cadence information (from extended data)
- Route waypoints and placemarks
GPX Format Benefits
Converting KML to GPX offers several compatibility advantages:
- Universal compatibility with GPS devices and fitness trackers
- Supported by virtually all mapping and navigation software
- Open standard format for easy data exchange
- Preserves track structure and metadata
- Compatible with training analysis software
- Lightweight and efficient file format
- Easy to edit and manipulate programmatically
Supported KML Elements
The converter processes various KML data types:
- gx:Track elements - Google Earth tracks with timestamps (preferred)
- LineString coordinates - Simple route lines and paths
- Placemark data - Named locations and route markers
- Extended data - Sensor information like heart rate and power
- 3D coordinates - Elevation data for altitude profiles
- Multiple tracks - Combines all tracks into a single GPX file
Common Use Cases
Converting KML files to GPX format is particularly useful for:
- Importing Google Earth routes into GPS devices
- Using Google Earth planned routes for navigation
- Converting fitness tracks for training analysis
- Sharing routes with users of different GPS platforms
- Archiving tracks in a universally supported format
- Preparing routes for outdoor activities and hiking
- Migrating data between different mapping applications
Track Types and Handling
Different KML track types are handled as follows:
- Timestamped Tracks (gx:Track) - Preserves original timestamps and track progression
- Static Routes (LineString) - Generates timestamps at 1-second intervals for proper GPX structure
- Multiple Placemarks - Combines into separate track segments within the same GPX file
- Extended Data - Converts to standard GPX extension format for sensor data
Technical Details
The conversion process involves these steps:
- Parsing the KML XML structure and validating format
- Identifying track types (gx:Track vs LineString coordinates)
- Extracting coordinates, timestamps, and elevation data
- Processing extended data for sensor information
- Converting to GPX trackpoint structure with proper schemas
- Generating timestamps for routes without time data
- Creating GPX XML with TrackPointExtension for sensor data
- Validating output format for GPS device compatibility
Pro Tip
KML files created in Google Earth with the time slider feature will have the best conversion results, as they contain detailed timestamp information. The converter automatically detects whether your KML contains time-based tracks or static routes and handles them appropriately.
GPS Device Compatibility
The generated GPX files follow the standard GPX 1.1 specification and include Garmin TrackPointExtension schemas for sensor data. This ensures maximum compatibility with GPS devices, fitness trackers, and mapping software from all major manufacturers.
File Type Support
The converter works with KML files from Google Earth, Google Maps, and other KML-generating applications. While basic coordinate data is essential, extended features like timestamps and sensor data are optional and will be preserved when present.