Activity or Track Elevation vs. Map Elevation in the Garmin Explore App

When viewing the elevation plot for a recorded activity or track in the Garmin Explore™ app, Activity Elevation (or Track Elevation for tracks) will be used by default to display the elevation that was recorded by your Garmin® device. However, it may be beneficial to use Map Elevation in some cases.

How do Garmin Devices Record Activity/Track Elevation?

Depending on the model of Garmin device, elevation readings will either come from a barometric altimeter sensor or from GPS. For more details, see - Elevation Accuracy of Outdoor and Fitness Devices.

Where Does Map Elevation Come From?

Map Elevation comes from professional survey data, which may be more accurate than the elevation recorded by a Garmin device if poor GPS signal or significant changes in weather or air pressure were a factor during the recording. Map Elevation can also vary slightly depending on which maps are being used. For more details on downloading and managing maps in the Garmin Explore app, see Related.

Changing the Elevation Setting for an Activity or Track in the Garmin Explore App

1. Open the Garmin Explore app.

2. Select  Map or  Saved and locate the desired activity or track.

3. Select the activity or track.

   • If selecting the item from the map, select the name of the desired item after tapping on the map.

4. Scroll to and select View Chart for elevation.

5. Select .

6. On iOS, select Activity Elevation or Map Elevation.

   On Android, select Using Activity Elevation or Using Map Elevation.