Tutorial: Drawing and Publishing Hiking Routes with OpenStreetMap

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Plotting a hiking route has never been as accessible as with OpenStreetMap, this free global map that everyone enriches. This tutorial guides you step by step, from collecting your GPS data to publishing your route on a WordPress blog. You will see how to use the online iD editor, refine your plot, choose your styles, and share an interactive link or a GPX file that your readers can import into their favorite app.

Why choose OpenStreetMap for your routes?

One might think that only proprietary solutions offer precise maps, yet OpenStreetMap (OSM) attracts users with its constant updates, free license, and the richness of its contributors. Compared to a closed service, OSM offers the possibility to correct a poorly positioned trail, add a new parking lot, or even improve the quality of trails in your region. This flexibility makes it a reference tool for any hiking enthusiast wishing to free themselves from subscription constraints.

Furthermore, exporting data in GPX or KML format faces no technical barriers: you can generate a direct link to your plot, integrate it into an interactive map, or offer it for download. And if you need a more detailed map base, you can complement the view with a map of France with departments, thus overlaying administrative boundaries and hiking trails.

Prerequisites and essential tools

Create an OpenStreetMap account

The first step is to register on OpenStreetMap.org. The process remains simple: a username, an email address, and a password. By validating your account, you immediately gain access to the iD editor and can report anomalies, propose modifications, or plot new data. The community forum will help you in case of doubt, and you can even join local groups for mapping parties.

Choose your editor: iD Editor versus JOSM

Two interfaces dominate OSM editing: iD Editor, accessible directly from your browser, and JOSM, a more complete Java application. iD appeals with its quick learning curve: you make your edits in a few clicks, immediately see the rendering, and switch from one layer to another. JOSM, on the other hand, is preferred for massive modifications or the use of advanced plugins (GPX import, data validation). It’s up to you to judge your needs: for a simple hiking route, iD is often sufficient.

The image above illustrates the iD Editor workspace on a laptop, where each icon corresponds to a map element (path, point of interest, forest outline…). This generation prompt describes a reader in the middle of tracing, a clear interface, and contextual menus to specify the type of path or the difficulty of the trail.

Step 1: Collect your GPS data

Before launching the editor, retrieve a GPS track from your smartphone or a dedicated device. Many applications like OsmAnd or Wahoo allow you to record your route in GPX format and synchronize it on your computer. This approach ensures a quality track, faithful to your passage on the ground, not to mention altitude or speed information that can enrich your story.

• Activate high-precision GPS mode on your phone.
• Record the departure and arrival.
• Export in GPX format and note the file name.

Step 2: Trace your route in iD Editor

Import the GPX track

On OpenStreetMap, click on “Import” then “Upload a file.” Select your GPX and wait while the track displays on the map. You will get a watermark indicating your route, ready to be vectorized.

Recompose the route

The GPX serves as a guide, but it is up to you to create a “way” in iD: start at the departure point, follow the track, then finish at your arrival. The advantage of vector mode is the ability to correct a GPS error, adjust a too sharp turn, or add a point of interest such as a water point or a viewpoint.

Add waypoints and metadata

Each segment of your route can receive information: path name, difficulty (marked GR, PR…), surface type (dirt, road, trail), safety devices (barriers, fences). These details enrich the map and facilitate navigation for hikers who will follow your advice.

Step 3: Customize and export your file

Style the track

Although the standard OSM map remains neutral, you can prepare a customized rendering. Services like Mapbox or Leaflet.js allow you to play with colors, line thicknesses, and icons. For a WordPress blog, a simple GPX export will often suffice, but nothing prevents you from going further and offering a map in your site’s colors.

Export in GPX or KML

In iD, GPX export is done with one click, as is KML export if you plan to open it in Google Earth or any other cartography software. Always keep a local copy: in case of later editing, you will start from a clean, commented file.

Step 4: Publish and share your route

Embed in WordPress

On your blog, create a new post and insert a custom HTML block. Copy the embed code provided by OpenStreetMap: an <iframe> pointing to your track, which you can size as you wish. The rendering adapts automatically, and your readers will be able to zoom, move around, and view your route live.

Provide a download link

Add a button or a direct link to the hosted GPX file so that anyone can import your track into their GPS application. A simple <a href="my-route.gpx" download>Download the GPX</a> is enough, clearly indicating the version and update date for effective version management.

Advanced tips and best practices

“Always keep a critical eye on your GPS tracks, accuracy can vary depending on network coverage and the environment.”

— OpenStreetMap Community

• Check your edits before publishing to avoid duplicates.
• Keep a version history if you correct a track after publication.
• Assign clear licenses (ODbL) so everyone knows under what conditions they can reuse your work.
• Participate in local forums to report unmapped trails.

FAQ

How to correct a mispositioned track?

After spotting the error, open your track in iD, move the affected node, and save. The update is immediate, but it undergoes community review before appearing on some third-party services.

Can we map routes off marked trails?

Yes, OSM does not limit the type of track, but always mention the difficulty and local regulations to inform hikers and respect right of way.

Which export formats do you recommend?

GPX remains the standard for GPS devices and most mobile apps. For use in Google Earth or to embed in presentations as KML, prefer the KML format.