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Device guide

How to Send a Google Maps Route to Garmin

Google Maps doesn't export a route straight to Garmin. Convert it to GPX first, then load it as a course on your device.

Convert your route for Garmin

Google Maps
SmartGPX
GPX
Garmin
  1. 1

    Plan your route in Google Maps

    Set your start, destination, and any stops the way you normally would.

  2. 2

    Copy the directions link

    Use Google Maps' Share button, or copy the URL from your browser's address bar.

  3. 3

    Paste it into SmartGPX

    Drop the link into the converter below and run the conversion.

  4. 4

    Download the GPX file

    SmartGPX returns a standard GPX file built from the real, calculated route.

  5. 5

    Import it into Garmin Connect

    Upload the GPX as a course in Garmin Connect, then send it to your watch or Edge.

Getting the file onto your Garmin

Garmin Connect treats an imported GPX file as a course, not a raw track. On the Garmin Connect website, go to Training & Planning, then Courses, and use the Import button to upload the GPX and pick a course type. On mobile, open the downloaded GPX file and choose to open it with the Garmin Connect app. Either way, once the course exists in Garmin Connect, use its "Send to Device" option and sync your watch or Edge to pull it down. If your device isn't paired for wireless sync, connecting it by USB and copying the file into its NewFiles folder works as a fallback.

Good to know

A course loaded this way is a fixed path: on-device routing won't reroute around live traffic the way Google Maps does, since a GPX file carries no live traffic data. Very long or highly detailed routes can take a moment to process in Garmin Connect, and some older device models handle courses differently than current watches and Edge computers, so check your model's own course-import support if you're unsure.

Skip the copy-paste. Export a GPX file straight from a Google Maps tab with the SmartGPX Chrome extension.

Get the Chrome extension

Related resources

Frequently asked questions

Can Google Maps export directly to Garmin?

No. Google Maps has no built-in export to Garmin. You need to convert the route to a GPX file first, which is what SmartGPX does.

How do I convert a Google Maps route to GPX for Garmin?

Paste the Google Maps route link into the converter on this page and download the resulting GPX file, then import it into Garmin Connect.

Can I import GPX files into Garmin Connect?

Yes. Garmin Connect lets you import a GPX file as a course, then send that course to a paired watch or Edge device.

Can I use the route with a Garmin Edge?

Yes. Edge cycling computers support courses synced from Garmin Connect, which is where the GPX you download here gets imported.

Can I use it with a Garmin Zumo?

Most Garmin devices, including Zumo units, can load GPX or course files, but the exact import method varies by model and firmware. Check your device's manual if Garmin Connect sync isn't available on it.

Does SmartGPX connect directly to Garmin?

No. SmartGPX creates a standard GPX file that can be used with compatible Garmin workflows. There is no official integration or partnership with Garmin.

Can I convert a multi-stop Google Maps route?

Yes. SmartGPX supports routes with multiple stops, not just a single origin and destination.

SmartGPX is not affiliated with Garmin, Wahoo, OsmAnd, Strava, or Google; references to those names describe file format compatibility only.