What is a GPX file?
A GPX file is a plain text file that lists points along a route with their coordinates, and sometimes their height and time. Most walking and cycling apps can export one, and most guidebook publishers offer one for their routes.
Where do I get a GPX for my route?
From the official route site, from the app you planned it in, or from Trailpost's library of classic routes. If you draw the route yourself in Trailpost you do not need a file at all.
Why does my file import with no route?
GPX files can hold three kinds of thing: waypoints (single places), routes (a planned line) and tracks (a recorded line). Trailpost needs a route or a track. If the file only has waypoints you will see 'That GPX has no track points.' Export it again with the track included.
Does the climb figure match my watch?
Rarely, and that is normal. Climb depends on how the height data was smoothed. Trailpost uses a consistent method across every route so that the figure on your page is comparable, day to day.
Updated 2026-09-08. Written by the Trailpost team.