What is inside a GPX file?

GPX is an XML format used to store GPS data such as latitude, longitude, elevation, time, tracks, routes, and waypoints. Fitness apps, bike computers, running watches, hiking apps, and map tools use it because it is portable and easy to exchange.

Editing GPX data means changing those coordinates carefully. A small change can fix a GPS spike, but careless deletion can also turn a switchback trail into a straight line across terrain.

A GPX route displayed on a map with track points, start, and finish markers

1. Keep the original file

Before editing, save a backup of the original GPX. This is especially important for activity recordings that include timestamps, pace, heart rate, or power data. Use the edited copy for navigation and sharing, and keep the original as evidence of the actual recording.

2. Import and inspect the route

  1. Open the GPX Hub editor.
  2. Choose your .gpx file from the import area.
  3. Fit the complete route on the map.
  4. Check the start, finish, distance, segments, elevation profile, and waypoint list.

If the file does not load, confirm that it is valid GPX XML and not an empty download or a renamed file from another format.

3. Move or delete track points

Use Select (V), choose the track, and zoom into the incorrect section. Drag a point when its sequence is correct but its coordinate is beside the road or trail. Use Area Select (B) to drag across multiple track points and waypoints; hold Space during the drag to pan the map.

Editing tip: Make small changes at a high zoom level. Area deletion can be reversed with Undo and Redo.

4. Redraw and connect a middle section

After removing a bad interval, start Draw Route (P) from the point where the replacement should begin. Select the new endpoint and the remaining route endpoint with Connect Routes (J). GPX Hub merges the actual point order, so the saved route follows the replacement instead of merely drawing an overlapping line.

5. Add useful waypoints

Waypoints are best for named locations such as water stops, trail junctions, summits, parking areas, or hazards. Use Add Waypoint (W), choose short names that remain readable on small GPS screens, and avoid markers that do not help with a decision.

6. Review elevation before saving

Some GPX files include elevation from a barometer or GPS sensor, while others have no elevation at all. If the profile is flat or missing, fill terrain elevation and then inspect sudden jumps. A jump may reveal a misplaced point, a tunnel, a bridge, or a limitation in the terrain model.

7. Export and test the edited file

Save with a new file name, reopen the exported GPX, and check whether the route, waypoints, and elevation are preserved. Then import it into the app or device you plan to use. Different devices handle tracks, routes, segments, and waypoints differently.

Common mistakes

  • Deleting too many points and losing route shape.
  • Sharing home or workplace coordinates by accident.
  • Expecting elevation gain to match every app exactly.
  • Replacing an original activity record with an edited route copy.
  • Saving a huge point count for a device with limited memory.