How to Export GPX from Strava Routes
Strava routes are useful for planning rides and runs, but a route line alone does not always show how the terrain will feel on the day.
Exporting a Strava route as GPX lets you use RoutePOV as a preview step, especially when you want to understand climb timing, descent rhythm, or unfamiliar roads before starting.
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How to export GPX from Strava
Open the saved route in Strava and look for the export option. The exact interface can vary by device and account state, but the goal is the same: download the route as a GPX file.
After downloading, keep the original GPX unchanged until you have confirmed that it opens correctly in your preview tool.
- check_circleOpen the route in Strava
- check_circleUse the route export or download option
- check_circleChoose GPX when available
- check_circleSave the route file
- check_circleUpload the GPX into RoutePOV
Why preview Strava routes in 3D
A Strava route can show distance, elevation, and segments. RoutePOV helps with a different question: how does the route unfold through terrain from start to finish?
That matters for hilly rides, race recon, long runs, gravel routes, and any route where pacing depends on knowing where the hard parts appear.
What to check after import
After the GPX loads, inspect the route start, major climbs, long descents, and any sections where the line changes direction frequently. These are the areas where a 3D preview can reveal useful context.
If the route looks wrong, export again or check whether the Strava route was private, incomplete, or based on a segment rather than a complete planned route.
Ready to inspect a Strava route in terrain?
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