This article will show you how to import GPX and KML files into the iOS app. You can upload GPX and KML files containing tracks, routes, and waypoints into the Gaia GPS app.
Note: KML files can contain a large array of different types of data including maps. These types of KML files are not compatible with Gaia GPS. If you want to import a custom map source, read here.
Import Through the Gaia GPS App
1. After adding the GPX file to your device's storage, tap the Saved icon in the bottom menu in the app
2. Tap the 3 dots in the upper right-hand corner
3. Tap Import File
4. Locate the file you would like to import on your device and tap it. When the screen reads "All imports complete" your file will be available in your saved folders.
Email Import
- Email a GPX or KML file to yourself as an attachment
- Open that email from the Apple "Mail" app
- Long-press the attachment, tap Share (
) and choose "Gaia GPS." You may have to scroll to the right and select "More ..." before you will see the option to open in or copy to Gaia GPS.
Note: Whenever you import a file into Gaia GPS, a new folder is created.
Text Message Import
You can also receive GPX or KML files as a text message. To open it in Gaia GPS:
- Open the message with the iMessage app
- GPX files can be imported into Gaia GPS through two different methods:
Method #1
- Tap the GPX attachment to open it
- Tap the action icon
- Select "Gaia GPS." See screenshots in step 3 for the email method above.
- Tap the information button in the top right corner
- Select Attachments at the bottom of the screen
- Tap the attachment you want to import into Gaia GPS
- Tap the action icon
- Select "Gaia GPS." See screenshots in step 3 for the email method above.
Dropbox Import
1. Add the GPX or KML file to your Dropbox account.
2. Install the Dropbox app on your device
3. Find and open the file from the Dropbox app. This will open the file as a text page
4. Tap the 3 dots in the upper right for more options
5. Tap Share
6. Tap Export File
7. Select "Gaia GPS." See screenshots in step 3 for the email method above.
Notes:
- Gaia GPS has a file limit of 15 MB. Files over 15 MB should be split up into several files so that they can be imported into Gaia GPS.
- Larger files may take longer to import
- If you have both a GPX and KML with the same data, we recommend using the GPX file, as many KML files lack speed/time data contained in the GPX.
Comments
9 comments
This will not work for email if your mail is open on another device
@john95062
I'm sorry you had trouble importing a GPX or KML file via email. Please contact support directly by clicking the 'Submit a Request' button above and we can take a closer look at what you are experiencing.
I don't have the option to "Copy to" or "Save to" "Gaia GPS". I don't have an "Import GPX" feature.
@tbstockton
I'm sorry you are having an issue importing data into Gaia GPS.
It looks like you are working with Robyn to troubleshoot this issue. Can you send a copy of the GPX file via email if you are still experiencing issues importing directly into the app.
I am using an iPhone 6 plus, version iOS 12.1.4
I cannot download GPX files because the device does not show the option to "copy to Gaia GPS". How do I add that option?
@robm
I'm sorry for the trouble - I believe I'm working with you via email with steps on how to fix this issue. Please send me an email if you are still having trouble.
I'm struggling with uploading GPX files into Gaia. I've tried the Dropbox method, Mail method, and the iTunes method - none of which work. For the Dropbox and Mail methods, there is no "copy to Gaia GPS" option anywhere. For the iTunes method, I am able to copy the files to Gaia within iTunes on my Mac, but I'm not able to actually pull them up (nor do I get the "import" messaging) within the Gaia iOS app. Please help!
You have to use the iOS Mail application NOT Gmail or Yahoo app. Mail Cannot be open on any other devices also This will give the save option.
@rylandpercy if you are still having trouble importing the file, please send a copy of it to support@gaiagps.com and we can definitely help.
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