Convert KML to GPX
Turn a KML file from Google Earth into a GPX file for your Garmin, GPS device, or outdoor app. Placemarks become waypoints, paths become routes, and recorded tracks stay tracks with their time and elevation. Everything runs in your browser, so your file is never uploaded. You can also open your KML on the MapGridder map, edit it there and export it as GPX, GeoJSON or a PDF.
What converts and what is lost
GPX is built for GPS devices and holds points, routes and tracks. KML also carries areas, styling and folders, which have no place to land.
| In the KML | In the GPX | Lost |
|---|---|---|
| Placemark point <Point> | Waypoint <wpt> with the name, and the description as plain text | Altitude, icon, color, timestamp |
| Path <LineString> | Route <rte> with the placemark name | Altitude, description, line color and width |
| Recorded track <gx:Track> | Track <trk> with time and elevation on every point. Each part of a <gx:MultiTrack> becomes its own track under the same name | Heart rate, cadence and other per-point data, styling |
| Mixed geometry <MultiGeometry> | Each point and path inside becomes its own waypoint or route, named after the placemark | Any polygon inside it |
| Area <Polygon> | Not written: GPX has no area type | The whole shape |
| Folders, styles and custom data | Not written: a GPX file is one flat list | Folder structure, colors, icons, ExtendedData fields |
| Network link <NetworkLink> | Not followed | Everything the link would load |
A file that holds only areas has nothing GPX can carry, so you get a message instead of an empty file. Got a zipped export from Google Earth? The KMZ to GPX converter takes it as it is.
How to use it
- Drop or choose your .kml file.
- Open it on the MapGridder map to edit and export, or download the .gpx file.
Frequently asked questions
How do I convert a KML file to GPX?
Choose your .kml file and download the .gpx for Garmin and other GPS devices, or open the file on the MapGridder map to edit it, add a grid, and export it as GPX, GeoJSON or a PDF.
Is my file uploaded anywhere?
No. The conversion runs entirely in your browser, so your location data stays on your device. Personal and non-commercial use is free; commercial use needs a paid license.
Does it support KMZ files?
Yes. A KMZ is a zipped KML, so choose the .kmz itself and the converter reads the KML inside it, with no need to unzip anything first. Imagery packed into the archive is not carried across. The KMZ to GPX converter page lists everything an archive keeps and loses.
Need the reverse? Convert GPX to KML. To keep areas and folders, open the file on the MapGridder map or in the KML and KMZ viewer instead. For the full picture, read the GPX and KML guide.