How to Convert GPX Tracks to KML for Google Earth

To convert a GPX file to KML for Google Earth, drop your .gpx file into a browser-based converter, click Convert, and download the resulting .kml. Waypoints, multi-segment tracks, and routes are detected automatically, and names, descriptions, and elevation are preserved — all without your movement data ever leaving your device.

GPX is the format your Garmin, Strava, Komoot, or AllTrails export uses, but to replay an activity over Google Earth's 3D terrain you need KML. Converting by hand would mean parsing XML and rebuilding geometry, so a dedicated tool is the practical route.

Why convert GPX to KML?

Hikers and cyclists relive recorded rides in 3D, race organisers hand course files to volunteers in a viewer-friendly format, and researchers move field GPS logs into KML-based workflows. The converter maps GPX waypoints to KML point placemarks, and tracks and routes to line strings, keeping the structure you recorded.

How to convert GPX to KML in your browser

1. Drop a .gpx file onto the upload area, or paste the GPX XML into the input box.
2. Click Convert to KML — waypoints, tracks, and routes are detected automatically.
3. Check the summary and preview the generated KML.
4. Download the .kml file and open it in Google Earth.

GPX vs. KML: keep one, convert the other

The two formats have different jobs, and knowing which to keep saves headaches later:

Aspect	GPX	KML
Purpose	GPS data exchange and editing	Visualization in Google Earth
Strength	Timestamps, ordered track points, routes	Placemarks, styles, geometry
Re-import to a device	Yes, native format	Not ideal
Best when	You need to edit or reload data	You want to view or present it

The takeaway: convert to KML when you want to display or present a track, but keep the original GPX for editing and reloading onto devices, since GPX remains the richer format for timing data.

Key features and benefits

• Converts waypoints, multi-segment tracks, and routes.
• Preserves names, descriptions, and elevation values.
• Keeps multi-segment tracks together as one placemark.
• Paste XML or upload a .gpx file — both work.
• Valid KML output for Google Earth and My Maps.
• 100% private — your GPS history never leaves the browser.

Try the GPX to KML Converter now — it's free and runs entirely in your browser.

Frequently asked questions

How do I open the KML in Google Earth?

Download the .kml and open it in Google Earth via File → Open. Your track appears draped over the 3D terrain, with waypoints shown as clickable placemarks you can inspect.

What is the difference between GPX and KML?

GPX focuses on recorded data — waypoints, timestamped track points, and planned routes — while KML describes placemarks, styles, and geometry for Google Earth. Convert to KML to view or present data, and keep GPX for editing and re-importing to devices.

Does it keep elevation data?

Yes. Elevation from GPX elements is written into the KML altitude field for every waypoint and track point. Note that Google Earth clamps features to the ground by default, so the profile you see comes from Earth's own elevation model.

Can I convert a Strava or Garmin export?

Yes. Strava's "Export GPX" files and Garmin Connect exports are standard GPX 1.1 and convert directly. Activity tracks come through as named line strings, and course points or waypoints become placemarks.

Are timestamps preserved in the KML?

No — the output holds geometry, names, descriptions, and elevation, which is what Google Earth shows for static KML. If you need time animation, keep the original GPX, which remains the richer format for timing data.

Related free tools

• GeoJSON to KML Converter — convert web-map data to Google Earth.
• KML to GeoJSON Converter — bring KML into web-mapping stacks.
• Distance Calculator — measure distance between two points.
• XML Formatter — tidy raw GPX or KML XML.

Built by ByteVancer

ByteTools is a free product of ByteVancer, a software and web development studio that builds web apps, SaaS platforms, and custom software for businesses. If your team needs geospatial or activity-data features built well, explore ByteVancer's services or get in touch about your project.