RacePrint
← Back to RacePrint

Last updated: April 20, 2026

Not sure what a GPX file is? You're not alone.

GPX is the standard file format for GPS routes. Most race organizers publish one — you just need to know where to look. This guide covers every way to find yours in under 5 minutes.

What exactly is a GPX file?

A GPX file is a small file that contains the GPS coordinates of a route — every turn, climb, and descent of your race course. When you upload it to RacePrint, we read the elevation profile and use it to find local training routes that match the terrain.

You don't need to understand the technical details. You just need the file. Here's how to get it.

Step 1 — Check your race's official website

Most races publish a GPX file on their website. It's usually buried in one of these sections:

  • Course Info or Course Details
  • Race Map or Course Map
  • Downloads or Resources
  • FAQ (sometimes linked here)

Look for a button or link that says: "Download GPX", "Download Course File", or "Export Route"

Pro tip: Use Ctrl+F (or Cmd+F on Mac) on the race website and search for "GPX" — it finds the download link instantly even on long pages.

Can't find it on the website? Try these.

Option A — Google it

Search: "[Your race name] GPX download" — example: "Western States 100 GPX download"

Race organizers often post GPX files to third-party sites like Strava, Komoot, or running blogs even if they don't link to them from their own website.

Option B — Check the race’s Facebook group

Most organized races have an official Facebook community. Search the group for "GPX" — organizers frequently post the course file there, especially close to race day. If it's not there, post a request — other runners often have the file and will share it.

Option C — Email the race director

Race directors get this request all the time. A short, polite email usually gets a response within a day or two.

Template you can copy — below

Subject: GPX file for [Race Name]

Hi,

I'm training for [Race Name] and would love to use the
GPX course file to plan my training routes. Would you
be able to share it?

Thank you!

Already have your race on Strava or Garmin?

If you've previously run the race or if it's listed as a Strava segment or Garmin course, you can export the GPX directly.

From Strava

  1. Open the activity or route on Strava
  2. Click the ⋯ menu (three dots)
  3. Select Export GPX
  4. The file downloads to your device

If nothing else works — draw it yourself

If your race doesn't have an official GPX file anywhere, you can draw the course yourself using a free mapping tool.

CalTopo (free)

caltopo.com

Draw the route on the map using the course description or photos from past years. Export as GPX when done. Widely used by ultramarathon runners — most trail races have community-created versions already in the library.

Strava Route Builder (free with account)

strava.com/routes/new

Draw a route on the Strava map following the course. Export as GPX when complete.

Komoot (free)

komoot.com

Search for the race — many popular races already have community routes. If not, draw and export.

Note: Hand-drawn routes may not perfectly match the official course, but they get you close enough for elevation fingerprinting. The terrain profile will still be accurate even if individual corners differ.

Quick answers

Got your file?

Takes 2 minutes. Free. No credit card.

Reviewed by Customer Success + Marketing. Guide content may be updated as new sources are found.

Upload Your Race GPX