How to Create Custom Maps for Garmin GPS

Create custom maps using Google Earth for your Garmin GPS.

Since Garmin GPS maps may not reflect the data displayed on many trail maps, you may find it helpful to create your own Garmin custom map. Creating a custom map allows you to add additional map data to your device. One of the easiest ways to create custom maps for your Garmin device is by using any paper or electronic map in conjunction with Google Earth. Before creating custom maps, make sure you seek permission from the map copyright holder. You do not need to ask for permission to use the maps that are in the public domain.

Things You'll Need

• Paper or electronic map

Instructions

1. Find a paper or electronic map that is in the public domain or a map that you have permission to use from its copyright holder.

2. Save the map in the .JPEG file format. If you have a paper map, scan the map and then save the map in the .JPEG format. If you have an electronic map, make sure the map is in the .JPG format.

3. Open Google Earth and then locate the approximate area where your custom map is located by using either the "Find Businesses" or "Directions" tabs under the "Search" section.

4. Click on "Add" after locating the general area of your custom map in Google Earth and then select "Image Overlay" from the drop-down menu. The "New Image Overload" dialog box opens.

5. Type a name for your custom map in the "Name" field, click on "Browse" and then locate your JPEG custom map.

6. Adjust your JPEG custom file in Google Earth to make sure it matches the satellite imagery for that area. To do so, adjust the corners of your custom map by moving the green marks around the map.

7. Adjust the transparency of your JPEG custom map by ensuring that the satellite imagery is seen beneath your JPEG map, not above it. To adjust this, use the "Transparency" bar located near the "New Image Overlay" dialog box at the top.

8. Select "OK" to save your new custom map and then connect your Garmin GPS device to your computer. Right-click on your custom map located on the left side of the screen; select "Save Place As." A dialog box appears; find the "Garmin/CustomMaps/" directory and then save your custom map in the KMZ file format.

References

• Garmin: Garmin Custom Maps - Create Your Custom Maps

Resources

• Garmin: POI Loader