Published on January 25, 2025
KML files are one of the most versatile tools in the world of digital mapping. Whether you’re a casual map enthusiast like me or a professional working with geospatial data, KML files can make your projects more engaging and informative. Today, I’m sharing my top 5 favorite ways to use KML files.
One of the first things I did with KML files was plot my hiking routes on Google Earth. It’s an amazing way to revisit your adventures. With a KML file, you can see your trail in 3D, check the elevation profile, and even add photos along the way.
Hosting an event? KML files are perfect for creating custom maps to share with attendees. You can highlight parking areas, entrances, and key landmarks. I’ve used KML to map out routes for local bike rides, and participants loved being able to download the file and follow along on their devices.
I stumbled upon this use case when helping a friend research property boundaries. KML files are often used in real estate to show plots of land or zoning areas. You can overlay satellite imagery and clearly see how the land is being used.
Before a big trip, I like to use KML files to map out points of interest, hotels, and routes. It’s like having a personalized travel guide! You can even add descriptions or links to each location to keep everything organized.
KML is an incredible storytelling tool. I’ve used it to create virtual tours, showing historical sites and their significance. Teachers and students can use KML files to make lessons more interactive and immersive.
KML files are more than just a technical format—they’re a way to bring maps to life. Whether you’re visualizing your adventures or planning your next trip, KML files make it easy to share and explore. Give them a try, and let me know how you use KML in your own projects!