How to use a GPX-track?
Smartphones simplify everyday life and can guide us to any destination using a GPX file, for example. This function is particularly useful if you have already planned a cycling tour or walk with a route planner. Find out what a GPX track is and how you can use it on a walk or cycling tour.
Text: Ostbelgien.eu Photos: Ostbelgien.eu
What is a GPX-track and what is it used for?
A GPX file contains geographical data and GPS coordinates for waypoints that can be used to display hikes or cycle tours in an outdoor app. You can visualise and navigate a route using this GPX track. It provides you with information on the route and its elevation profile. In other words, the GPX track allows you to view and navigate a route.
How to download a GPX-track?
On ostbelgien.eu, you’ll find the GPX tracks of our Pleasure Tours, Ovelo tours, Kids on Tour loops, MTB tours and the stages of the Venntrilogie.
You can usually find these tracks at the top right of the route descriptions or below the map. The downloaded GPX track appears in the Downloads folder of your computer.
When using a smartphone to check out ostbelgien.eu, the GPX-tracks will appear on the bottom of the page.
How to open a GPX-track on the smartphone?
While it is possible to open and edit GPX tracks on the computer, this does not help you navigate our trails.
However, you can import them from the pc to your GPS device (such as Garmin). If you don’t have a GPS device, you can also navigate with the help of your smartphone.
There are numerous providers who offer apps that allow you to use GPX files. You could for instance use the Apps Komoot or Outdoor Active.
How to import the GPX track into an outdoor app?
For example, download the Komoot app or the Outdooractive app from Google Play or the App Store, register and log in. Then open the GPX track with the app to navigate using the track within the app.
Further information on opening the GPX tracks can be found on the websites of the respective apps such as Komoot or Outdooractive.
Do I have to import all the routes manually?
No, some routes of the East Belgium Tourist Agency are also available on Komoot and Outdooractive, so it is not necessary to import the GPX track.
Use the search functions of the apps to find the routes.
Where can I find maps and brochures?
In case of further questions, feel free to get in touch with us:
East Belgium Tourist Agency npo
Hauptstraße 54
B-4780 Sankt Vith
Tel.: +32 (0)80 22 76 64
E-Mail: info@ostbelgien.eu
BE 0715 454 578 - RJP/RPM Eupen
