KML to GPX Converter
Convert KML points and routes to GPX waypoints and tracks for GPS devices and outdoor mapping apps in your browser.
The KML to GPX Converter maps KML Point placemarks to GPX waypoints and LineString paths to GPX tracks directly in your browser. It preserves coordinates and elevations where present, without uploading your file.
KML to GPX Technical Specifications & Standards
WGS 84 (EPSG:4326)
Standard global ellipsoidal coordinate reference system
KML Geodesics
Source coordinate precision preserved; no reprojection.
GeoJSON · KML · CSV · SVG
Compatible with QGIS, ArcGIS, Google Earth & CAD
100% Client-Side
Calculations run in-browser. Zero coordinate logging.
How to Use the KML to GPX Converter
Follow this step-by-step procedure to execute precise spatial measurements and export results.
- 1Choose KML: Upload or paste local KML XML.
- 2Convert features: Points become waypoints and line paths become GPX track segments.
- 3Download GPX: Save a standard GPX 1.1 file for compatible GPS and mapping software.
Geodesic Precision vs. Competitor Mapping Approaches
Most legacy mapping utilities (such as CalcMaps and FreeMapTools) rely on planar Web Mercator projections or spherical approximations, causing significant mathematical distortion at higher latitudes. GeoMap Suite computes exact ellipsoidal geodesics on the WGS84 reference ellipsoid.
| Calculation Model | Mathematical Basis | Distortion on WGS84 | Standard Tools | Practical Application |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Planar (Web Mercator) | Cartesian dx² + dy² | 10% to 200%+ error | CalcMaps / Simple map tools | Distorts drastically away from equator. Inaccurate for true distance. |
| Spherical Great-Circle | Haversine (R = 6,371 km) | Up to 0.5% (~5 km/1,000 km) | Basic Google Maps wrappers | Ignores Earth's polar flattening. Reasonable for rough estimates. |
| GeoMap Suite Ellipsoidal | Karney Direct/Inverse WGS84 | < 15 nanometers (<0.0001%) | GeoMap Suite | Geodetic surveying, maritime, flight paths & legal boundary analysis. |
Google Earth route to GPX
A cyclist exports a planned LineString from Google Earth for a GPS computer.
Input Parameters
- Input
- planned-route.kml
Computed Outputs
- Output
- GPX 1.1 track
Step-by-Step Mathematical Process
- Parse local Placemark geometry.
- Map longitude, latitude, and altitude to GPX elements.
- Download and import the GPX into supported software.
Understanding Your Results & Practical Interpretation
What transfers to GPX?
GPX supports GPS waypoints and track paths. It does not preserve Google Earth colors, descriptions, folder hierarchy, imagery, tours, or polygon styling.
Practical Applications & Real-World Use Cases
Outdoor route transfer
Move a planned KML path into GPS and fitness software.
Mathematical Methodology & Geodetic Accuracy
KML geometry to GPX 1.1 mapping
Point placemarks become wpt elements and LineString placemarks become trk/trkseg elements.
KML Point → GPX wpt; KML LineString → GPX trksegLimitations & Boundary Conditions
- •Polygons, styles, folders, overlays, and NetworkLinks are not expressible as equivalent GPX features.
Authoritative Reference Standards
Troubleshooting & Geographic Edge Cases
Why is a polygon not a GPX area?
GPX is designed for points and tracks, not filled areas. Convert the polygon to a boundary line first if your workflow needs its perimeter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Upload or paste KML and download a GPX 1.1 file processed locally in your browser.