Open Map Maker

How To Make a Map With Open Map Maker

Open Map Maker allows you to create and edit GPX files that can then be uploaded to your GPS tracking device. If you don't have a GPS device you can use your phone with Open Map Maker in navigation mode. Below is a brief explanation of how to use the toolbar in the map editor.

play_circleTurn on navigation mode to follow your route on your phone.
routeClick anywhere on the map to add a "Control Point" to your map.
radio_button_checkedClick along your route to insert a control point or remove an existing control point.
polylineTravel in a straight line from the previous control point.
streetviewClick anywhere on the map to view the location in Google Street View.
undoUndo your last change.
redoRedo your last change.
my_locationCenter on your current location.
layersChange the map layer between CyclOSM, Open Street Maps, and Mapbox satellite views.
file_openOpen a GPX file to edit.
downloadSave your route as a GPX file to be uploaded to another device or to be edited again in Open Map Maker.
deleteClear the current map.

What is a GPX file?

Simply put, GPX files are ordinary text files that store geographic coordinates in a standardized format. These files can then be uploaded to GPS devices made by the likes of Garmin, Wahoo, Suunto, or Coros to keep you on track while you ride your bike, run, or go for a hike. 🚴🏃🥾

A selection of GPS devices

To use a route you created on Open Map Maker simply click on the download button download in the toolbar to save the file to your computer or phone. You should then be able to send the GPX file to your GPS device through the app provider by your device's maker. If you want to edit the file again you can always upload the same GPX file back in to Open Map Maker by clicking on the upload button file_open in the toolbar.

Don't have a dedicated GPS device? No worries! You can use Open Map Maker in navigation mode. Simply click the navigation button play_circle in the toolbar and follow your route. For long trecks in remote areas, however, it is strongly recommended to use a proper GPS device in order to save your phone's battery and avoid spotty reception.