Quick answer: keep GPX for GPS tracks, routes, and waypoints; choose GeoJSON for web maps, APIs, and GIS workflows that need flexible feature properties. Convert a track with GPX to GeoJSON, then inspect it in the GeoJSON viewer.
GPX and GeoJSON can both represent geometry on a map, but they usually serve different purposes. GPX is focused on GPS activities (tracks, routes, waypoints). GeoJSON is a general-purpose web mapping format for features and properties.
Quick comparison
| Topic | GPX | GeoJSON |
|---|---|---|
| Typical use | GPS tracks, routes, waypoints | Web maps, APIs, general GIS features |
| Encoding | XML | JSON |
| Attributes | Limited and device-dependent | Flexible properties per feature |
| Best for | Outdoor navigation workflows | Web mapping and data exchange |
When to keep GPX
Keep GPX when:
- You want to preserve activity tracks and GPS device exports
- You share routes and waypoints with outdoor apps
Open GPX online: /open-gpx-online/
When to convert to GeoJSON
Convert to GeoJSON when:
-
You need a web-friendly format for mapping libraries
-
You want to integrate the path into a GIS or API pipeline
-
GPX to GeoJSON: /gpx-to-geojson/
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Open GeoJSON online: /open-geojson-online/
Related reading
- What is GPX: /blog/what-is-gpx/