If you're an avid hiker, biker, or runner who uses a Garmin GPS device, you know the importance of GPX files. These files store data about your activities, including your route, speed, and elevation. This information can be used to track your progress, share your adventures with friends, or simply relive your favorite moments.

But where do you save GPX files on your Garmin device? The answer depends on the type of Garmin device you have.

For Garmin Watches:

1. Connect Your Watch to Your Computer:

• Use a USB cable to connect your Garmin watch to your computer.
• Make sure the watch is powered on and unlocked.

2. Open the Garmin Express App:

• If you don't already have Garmin Express installed, you can download it from Garmin's website.
• Once installed, open the Garmin Express app on your computer.

3. Select Your Device:

• In the Garmin Express app, select your Garmin watch from the list of devices.
• Click on the "Activities" tab.

4. Transfer the GPX File:

• Drag and drop the GPX file from your computer to the Garmin Express app.
• Make sure to select the correct activity type for the file.

5. Sync Your Watch:

• Once the GPX file has been transferred, click on the "Sync" button in the Garmin Express app.
• Wait for the sync process to complete.

For Garmin Edge Devices:

1. Connect Your Edge Device to Your Computer:

• Use a USB cable to connect your Garmin Edge device to your computer.
• Make sure the device is powered on.

2. Turn on Mass Storage Mode:

• On your Garmin Edge device, press the "Menu" button.
• Select "Settings."
• Select "USB Mode."
• Select "Mass Storage."

3. Open the GPX File on Your Computer:

• On your computer, navigate to the folder where the GPX file is saved.
• Double-click on the GPX file to open it.

4. Copy the GPX File to Your Edge Device:

• Select the GPX file and press "Ctrl+C" (Windows) or "Command+C" (Mac) to copy it.
• Navigate to the "Garmin" folder on your Edge device.
• Create a new folder called "GPX."
• Open the "GPX" folder and press "Ctrl+V" (Windows) or "Command+V" (Mac) to paste the GPX file.

5. Disconnect Your Edge Device:

• Once the GPX file has been transferred, safely disconnect your Edge device from your computer.

For Garmin BaseCamp:

1. Open BaseCamp:

• If you don't already have BaseCamp installed, you can download it from Garmin's website.
• Once installed, open BaseCamp on your computer.

2. Import the GPX File:

• Click on the "File" menu.
• Select "Import."
• Select the GPX file that you want to import.
• Click on the "Open" button.

3. Save the GPX File to Your Garmin Device:

• Connect your Garmin device to your computer using a USB cable.
• Make sure the device is powered on.
• Right-click on the GPX file in BaseCamp.
• Select "Send to Device."
• Select your Garmin device from the list.
• Click on the "OK" button.

Conclusion

Now that you know where to save GPX files on your Garmin device, you can easily store and access your activity data. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or just starting out, GPX files can be a valuable tool for tracking your progress and sharing your adventures with others.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I save GPX files on a microSD card?

Yes, you can save GPX files on a microSD card if your Garmin device has a microSD card slot. Simply insert the microSD card into the slot and follow the steps above to save the GPX file.

2. How do I delete GPX files from my Garmin device?

To delete GPX files from your Garmin device, connect the device to your computer using a USB cable. Open the "Garmin" folder on your device and find the "GPX" folder. Delete the GPX files that you no longer need.

3. Can I save GPX files from my Garmin device to my computer?

Yes, you can save GPX files from your Garmin device to your computer. Connect the device to your computer using a USB cable. Open the "Garmin" folder on your device and find the "GPX" folder. Copy the GPX files that you want to save to your computer and paste them into a folder on your hard drive.

4. What are some other ways to share GPX files?

In addition to saving GPX files on your Garmin device, you can also share them with others using email, social media, or cloud storage services. You can also upload GPX files to online platforms such as Strava or MapMyRun to track your progress and share your activities with others.

5. How can I use GPX files to plan future activities?

GPX files can be used to plan future activities by importing them into mapping software. This allows you to see the route you took and the elevation changes you encountered. You can use this information to plan future activities that are similar in difficulty and terrain.