How to Add KML to Google Maps

KML files store geographic and navigational map data.

The Keyhole Markup Language (KML) is a file format used to store geographic data including driving directions and other navigational maps. The KML format was originally developed for Google Earth--a desktop mapping program--as a way to save geographic information that is readable by other map programs in a standardized fashion. The online map application Google Maps includes support for importing KML files into the Web interface so that users can view and edit the navigational data. Since KML is a Google-developed format, it only takes a few mouse clicks to add KML data to Google Maps.

Things You'll Need

• Google account

Instructions

1. Launch a Web browser and navigate to Google Maps (see Resources).

2. Click "My Maps" in the left-hand sidebar. You will be prompted to log in to your Google account if necessary. If you do not have a Google account, sign up is free and takes only a few minutes to complete.

3. Click "Create New Map."

4. Click "Import."

5. Click "Choose file" and select the KML file you wish to add to Google Maps and then click "Upload From File." Alternatively, if the KML file you wish to add is located on the Web, you can enter the address of the file and click "Upload from URL."

6. Enter a map title and click "Save." The KML file will be displayed in Google Maps allowing you to view and modify the geographic data.

References

• Google: Adding other content - Maps Help