Data can be imported and symbolized quickly and easily from a GPS device using the GPX data exchange format. According to Wikipedia it's an XML schema designed for describing GPS data between software applications. The GPX format encapsulates waypoints, tracks, and routes. With the release of Explorer 480, GPX became one of the formats that can be imported directly. Take a look at the video, then follow along in this post to learn more.

To import a GPX file choose Tools > Import File. You'll see the new option for GPX under Text.

Here we've chosen a GPX file that we downloaded from the topografix.com GPX examples. It's a GPX file of a mountain bike loop at Middlesex Fells reservation near Winchester, MA, named fells_loop.gpx.

When we open the file we're presented with the Import GPS options. We can choose to import everything, or just the waypoints, tracks, or routes. Since we're not sure what the file contains, we're keeping everything checked on.

After the import is complete, you'll see a result. Click to navigate to its location like we've done here.

The symbols that you see are matched to the icon name in the GPX file. A description of the symbol mapping can be found in the Explorer Help. You can always change your symbols via the result properties.

For more information check out the complete importing GPS data files Help topic.