Creating Custom Maps for Garmin Mapping GPS Devices Using Google Earth

Are you tired of using the same old pre-programmed maps that came with your Garmin mapping GPS device? Do you want to create your own custom maps with specific routes, boundaries, and features tailored to your needs? If so, then you're in luck! With a little bit of computer know-how and some basic knowledge of Google Earth, you can create your own custom maps for use in your Garmin mapping GPS device.

The process of creating custom maps is not necessarily difficult, but it does require some technical skills and the right tools. In this article, we'll walk you through the steps necessary to create a custom map using Google Earth and transfer it to your Garmin mapping GPS device.

Step 1: Gather Your Tools

Before you start creating your custom map, you'll need to gather a few essential tools. First, you'll need Google Earth installed on your computer. If you don't already have it, you can download it from the official website. Next, you'll need a Garmin mapping GPS device that is compatible with custom maps. Make sure you have the latest software update installed on your device.

Step 2: Create Your Custom Map

Once you have your tools ready, it's time to start creating your custom map. Open Google Earth and zoom in on the area you want to create your map for. You can use the built-in search function to find specific locations or navigate using the globe view. Once you've found your desired location, right-click on the terrain and select 'Add a new marker' to add a point of interest.

To add more details to your map, such as roads, boundaries, and features, you'll need to use Google Earth's built-in drawing tools. You can find these under the 'Edit' menu or by using keyboard shortcuts. Use these tools to draw lines, shapes, and other elements that will help define your custom map.

Step 3: Export Your Custom Map

Once you've finished creating your custom map, it's time to export it in a format compatible with Garmin mapping GPS devices. To do this, go to the 'File' menu and select 'Export'. In the export options, choose 'Google Earth KMZ' as the file type. This will save your custom map as a KMZ file.

Step 4: Convert Your KMZ File to GPX

The next step is to convert your KMZ file to a GPX file, which is the format used by Garmin mapping GPS devices. You can use a file conversion tool like G-Raster to do this. Simply open G-Raster and select 'File' > 'Open' to import your KMZ file. Then, go to 'File' > 'Save As' and choose 'GPX' as the file type.

Step 5: Load Your Custom Map onto Your Garmin Device

Once you have your GPX file converted, it's time to load it onto your Garmin device. Connect your device to your computer using a USB cable and transfer the file to the device. You can find detailed instructions on how to do this in the user manual that came with your Garmin device.

And that's it! With these steps, you should be able to create and load custom maps onto your Garmin mapping GPS device using Google Earth. While the process may seem a bit involved at first, it's actually quite simple once you get the hang of it. With a little practice, you'll be creating your own custom maps in no time.

Garmin custom maps from google earth