Open a GPX file in Google Maps
Google Maps itself can’t open a GPX. Import the file into Google My Maps (free, and it accepts GPX as well as KML/KMZ), and that custom map then shows up in Google Maps under your saved maps.
Reviewed on 2026-09-28 using official help where available.
AcceptsGPX, KML, KMZ, CSV, XLSX (via Google My Maps)
Free tierGoogle My Maps is free with a Google account.
Steps
- Open Google My Maps. On a computer, go to google.com/mymaps, sign in, and create a new map (or open an existing one).
- Import the file into a layer. Under a layer (use “Add layer” for a new one), click “Import”, then “Upload” → “Browse”, and pick your .gpx. KML and KMZ files work too.
- Name the map. The track is drawn on that layer. Give the map a name so it’s easy to find later.
- View it in Google Maps. On a computer, open Saved → Maps in Google Maps. In the Google Maps app, tap You → Maps.
Quirks & limits
- A My Maps layer is a drawing, not a navigable route — Google Maps won’t give turn-by-turn directions along it.
- Import limits: GPX and other non-KML files up to 40 MB, KML/KMZ up to 5 MB unzipped, and no more than 2,000 rows per import.
- If a file won’t import, export KML or KMZ from the GPX viewer’s Download menu and import that instead.
Sources
See the route before you upload it
Not sure the file is the right one? Drop it into the viewer first — you'll see the full track on a map with distance, elevation and speed. Nothing is uploaded.
Frequently asked questions
Can Google Maps open a GPX file directly?
No. Import the GPX into Google My Maps, which accepts it directly, then view that map in Google Maps under your saved maps.
Do I need to convert my GPX to KML first?
Usually not — Google My Maps imports GPX. If a file won’t import, open it in gpxviewer.app and use the Download menu to export KML or KMZ; it’s generated in your browser, nothing is uploaded.