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How to Record a GPX File on Android (The Easy Way)

This guide will show you the quickest way to record your hike, ride, or drive as a GPX file using GPSLogger, a free, simple, and battery-efficient app for Android.

We'll stick to the default settings to get you started in seconds.

The 3-Step Quick Start

Step 1: Install and Start Logging

First, you need to get the app and start your recording.

  1. Install GPSLogger from the Google Play Store.
  2. Open the app. It will ask for location permissions. Grant them so it can record your route.
  3. Tap the big green "Start logging" button. You don't need to change any settings. The app is ready to go right away!

The app will now find your GPS location. Once it has a lock, you're officially recording.

Step 2: Record Your Activity (and Stop)

Now for the easy part: do your activity!

  1. Put your phone in your pocket or bag and go for your walk, hike, ride, or drive. GPSLogger will run efficiently in the background.
  2. When you are finished, open the app again.
  3. Tap the big red "Stop logging" button.

That's it! Your track is saved.

Step 3: Find and Export Your GPX File

Now, let's get the GPX file off your phone.

  1. On the app's main screen, tap the menu icon (☰) in the top-left corner and select "Logged tracks".
  2. You will see a list of your recordings, named by date and time. Tap the track you just created.
  3. In the top-right corner, tap the Share icon.
  4. Your phone's standard share menu will appear. You can now:
    • Save it to Google Drive or Dropbox.
    • Email the file to yourself.
    • Share it directly to another app.

You're Done!

You now have a GPX file saved and ready to be uploaded to our tool.

If you want to go beyond the basics, here are a few useful tips.

Customizing Recording for Different Activities

The default setting (logging a point every 60 seconds) is great for battery life. If you need more detail, you can change it.

  • In the app, go to Settings → Logging Details → Time before logging.
  • For hiking or walking: A 10-30 second interval is good for capturing detailed trails.
  • For cycling or driving: A 30-60 second interval is usually sufficient.

Battery Life Tips

  • For very long activities, stick to a longer logging interval (60 seconds or more).
  • Make sure your phone's "Battery Saver" mode is turned off for GPSLogger, as it can interfere with the recording. You can usually find this in your phone's Settings under Apps → GPSLogger → Battery.