Maps to GPX

[Chris KC]

Until recently it was possible to plot a detailed route using Google Maps on a desktop computer, then convert the route into a .gpx file which could be uploaded to a satnav.

This was an incredibly useful tool for holiday planning which enabled you to choose "A7 friendly" roads and have the satnav navigate you along them - rather than being stuck with the stock "fastest route" or "avoid motorways" settings most satnavs offer.

I now find the "Google Maps to .gpx" conversion tools no longer work, which I gather is due to sweeping changes in the functionality of Google Maps.

Does anyone know of a simple workaround for this issue? Or similar workflow alternative?

I really don't want to buy a new device, or to even attempt route planning on a mobile 'phone.
I'm aware that it's theoretically possible to plan in my satnav's (TomTom) supporting software, but in practice I find it very clumsy compared with Google Maps.

I want "Maps to .gpx" back!!!

[Nick Salmon]

These sort of irritations occur when 'children' are allowed to 'improve' things. Grrrr....

[Chris KC]

Exactly Nick. I've lost count of the number of useful tools which have been lost to "upgrades".

Though in this particular case I suspect cost-cutting or profiteering at Google might be at the root of it.

[Colin Bromley]

I use a Beeline GPX thing when out in my Three-Wheeler, it runs on GPX, I have never used the google maps facility to convert, I have always used this https://mapstogpx.com/ It is free and almost idiot proof, which is lucky as I am a bit of a technophobe.

[Chris KC]

I use a Beeline GPX thing when out in my Three-Wheeler, it runs on GPX, I have never used the google maps facility to convert, I have always used this https://mapstogpx.com/ It is free and almost idiot proof, which is lucky as I am a bit of a technophobe.

It's 'Maps to GPX' which no longer works Colin.
Or, more specifically, no longer works when the source mapping URL is from Google Maps.
What do you use to plot your route?

[Mike Costigan]

Ordnance Survey have a good range of maps, they've served me well for over seventy years.

[Chris KC]

Ordnance Survey have a good range of maps, they've served me well for over seventy years.

I agree Mike, and use them myself - but I'm trying to plan travel outside the UK. 

On longer journeys getting prompts from the satnav instead of having to frequently stop & consult the map is a huge asset.

[Pearls not a Singer]

I've used RidewithGPS.com to do this task. Very easy to plan on tablet or computer and export to phone or other device for sat nav style instuctions. The only downside is an annual subscription of about £65

[Duncan Grimmond]

Colin, what type of three-wheeler is it that you drive? Morgan, BSA, Pembleton, TriKing? W.H.Y?

[Ruairidh Dunford]

Does this do what you are looking for, Chris?

https://www.gpsvisualizer.com/