GPX Viewer 2 app on iPhone during hike

What’s a GPX file?

A GPX (GPS eXchange) file is a lightweight text file that contains geographic data like a route, track, or waypoints. Load it into a map app or GPS device to follow a hike without relying on cell service.

Why Hike with a GPX app?

Using a GPX app while you’re hiking will ensure that you stay on your planned route. In my GPX files, I’ve created a waypoint for the parking lot, so you can be sure to start off in the right place. There are also waypoints where you should turn onto another trail. If you set your app to show your current location, you can also see exactly where you are along the trail.

Sometimes trails can be confusing. There might be unmarked unofficial trails or the trail you need to turn on may be unmarked. Using a GPX app ensures you stay on track and stay safe. Be sure to download all of the GPX information before you leave for your hike! You won’t be able to access all of the information if you wait until you’re in an area with no cell service.

How To Use a GPX File on Your Hike (3 Steps)

  1. Download the GPX file
  • Click the Download GPX link on the hike page.
  • If your browser asks what to do, choose Download (not “Open”).
  1. Locate the file
  • Computer (Mac/Windows): check your Downloads folder.
  • iPhone/iPad: open the Files app → Downloads (under “On My iPhone” or “iCloud Drive”).
  • Android: open the Files or My Files app → Download or Downloads.
  1. Open it in a GPX app
  • On phones, tap the file and choose Open in… your GPX app or open within the app itself.
  • On computers, open your GPX app and use Import/Open.

The App I Use: GPX Viewer 2

Why: It’s free (but you can upgrade for a small fee), simple, and works offline once you cache maps.

Import on iPhone/iPad

  1. Download the GPX.
  2. Open Files → Downloads.
  3. Tap the GPX → Share → Copy to GPX Viewer 2 (or Open in GPX Viewer 2).
  4. The route loads on the map; tap it to see distance, elevation, and waypoints.

Import on Android

  1. Download the GPX.
  2. Open your Files app → Downloads.
  3. Tap the GPX → choose GPX Viewer 2.
  4. The route opens on the map; save it to your library if you like.

Pro tips for GPX Viewer 2

  • Offline use: open the map area while online to cache tiles before your hike.
  • Waypoints: toggle waypoint labels to see water crossings, junctions, or viewpoints.
  • Track info: tap the track to view distance, elevation gain, and estimated time.

Popular GPX Apps & Tool

Mobile (iOS/Android)

  • GPX Viewer 2 (free; small paid upgrade) iOS/Android
  • Gaia GPS (powerful planning & offline maps) iOS/Android
  • AllTrails (popular, simple import on paid tiers) iOS/Android
  • OsmAnd (excellent offline maps; open-source) iOS/Android
  • Komoot (route planning & turn-by-turn) iOS/Android
  • Locus Map (Android power user favorite) iOS/Android
  • Outdooractive (routes, offline maps) iOS/Android

Web & Cloud (great for quick previews/editing)

  • CalTopo (terrain, slope angle, fire layers)
  • GPX Studio (edit/merge/simplify in the browser)
  • Strava (import to analyze or create routes)
  • Google Earth (opens GPX; gorgeous 3D preview)

GPS Device Ecosystems

  • Garmin: Garmin Explore or Connect apps (mobile), Garmin BaseCamp (desktop)
  • Suunto: Suunto app (mobile; import GPX and sync to watch)
  • COROS: COROS app (mobile; import and sync to watch)

Note: Some services import KML or FIT better than GPX; most of the apps above handle GPX just fine.

Troubleshooting

  • I don’t see the file after downloading.
    Search for “.gpx” in Files (iOS) or Files/My Files (Android). On desktop, check Downloads or your browser’s download list.
  • Tapping the file does nothing.
    Install a GPX-capable app first (e.g., GPX Viewer 2), then try Share → Open in that app.
  • Map is blank in the field.
    You probably don’t have signal. Open the area at home to cache tiles, or enable the app’s offline maps feature.
  • The track looks offset from the trail.
    That’s usually normal GPS drift. If it’s consistently way off, re-download the file or try a different basemap.
  • The app says the file is invalid.
    Re-download the GPX. If needed, repair it with a web tool like GPX Studio (import → export).

Safety & Battery Tips

  • Bring a paper map or snapshot screenshots—phones can fail.
  • Airplane mode on trail = huge battery savings; keep GPS/location on if needed.
  • Download offline maps before you go.
  • External battery pack for long days or cold weather.
  • Tell someone your plan and turn around times; GPX ≠ guaranteed navigation.

FAQ

What’s the difference between GPX and KML?
Both store routes; GPX is the hiking/GPS standard, KML is common with Google Earth/Maps.

Can I load GPX into Google Maps?
Not directly in the mobile app. Use Google My Maps on the web to import, then view it on mobile via the My Maps app or link.

Will the GPX give me turn-by-turn voice directions?
Sometimes. Many hiking apps show a line you follow on the map, not automotive-style prompts.

Do GPX files work without cell service?
Yes, if your app has the map tiles cached or downloaded. The GPX is tiny; the basemap is the bulk.