Why merge GPX files?

A ride, run, or hike can be split when a phone app restarts, a GPS device runs out of battery, or a route is planned day by day. Merging makes sharing and archiving easier, but the method matters.

The safest first version is often a single GPX file that keeps each recording as a separate segment. That preserves the fact that there was a gap between two files.

1. Check the order before combining

Use timestamps when they are reliable. If the files are planned routes with no time values, compare each file’s start and finish on the map. Rename files with clear order numbers before merging.

2. Append the second file

  1. Import the first GPX normally.
  2. Choose Import GPX File again and select the second file.
  3. Choose Add to Current GPX in the import dialog.
  4. Review the added segments and waypoints.

Choose Open as New only when you intend to replace the current workspace. An accidental append can be reversed with Undo.

3. Preserve segments when there is a gap

If the end of the first file and the start of the second file are far apart, do not force one continuous track. A straight connector can look like a real path and distort distance, elevation gain, and navigation instructions.

Rule of thumb: Keep separate segments unless you know the user actually traveled between those two exact points.

4. Connect only real neighboring endpoints

  1. Press J or choose Connect Routes.
  2. Select the endpoint of the first segment, then the matching endpoint of the next segment.
  3. Inspect the connection and route order on the map.
  4. If the endpoints are far apart or the travel is unknown, keep the segment break.
  5. Save a new file and reopen it for inspection.

5. Recheck elevation and waypoints

Files may use different elevation sources. One recording can contain barometric elevation while another contains GPS elevation or no elevation at all. After merging, review the profile for sudden jumps and fill terrain elevation when needed.

Waypoint names can also collide. Rename generic labels such as “Start”, “Finish”, and “Water” so they remain meaningful after multiple files are combined.

6. Test in the target app or device

Strava, Garmin, watches, bike computers, and hiking apps may interpret GPX tracks and segments differently. Import the merged copy before the real activity to confirm that the route displays correctly.