*Discover how to visualize your city runs, trail loops, and marathon courses on photorealistic 3D terrain.*
Why 3D Running Maps Matter
2D flat maps treat all miles the same. But every runner knows that 500 meters of technical mountain vert feels vastly different from a flat coastal pavement run.
A 3D terrain flyover highlights every climb, false summit, descent, and switchback. It brings your running story to life.
How to Create Your 3D Running Map
1. Export Your GPX File
Export the GPX log from your GPS running watch (Garmin Forerunner, Coros Pace, Apple Watch Ultra, Polar, or Suunto) or from your Strava activity.
2. Upload to TrailShorts
3D flyover shorts
Turn your GPX file into Trail flyover shorts
Render Trail flyover shorts and aesthetic Social media posts in seconds — free and client-side.
Drop your .gpx file into Trailshorts.xyz. The WebGL engine immediately calculates:
- Exact 3D bounding box
- Digital Elevation Model (DEM) terrain height
- Optimal camera follow path
3. Customize Your 3D View
- Camera Follow: The camera smoothly tracks your GPS cursor along the route, rotating to match your running heading.
- Elevation Color Gradient: Watch your route trace light up with emerald and neon cyan path vectors.
- Speed Multiplier: Adjust the duration between 15 seconds (perfect for Stories) to 60 seconds (for detailed route previews).
Watch the Tutorial
Example 3D Video Short
3D Trail Flyover Short Example
Features for Runners
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Live Pacing | Real-time pace and speed indicators updated dynamically along the track |
| Elevation Gain Counter | Live cumulative vert meter as you climb hills and mountains |
| 3D Satellite Terrain | High-resolution satellite imagery layered over real topography |
| 60 FPS MP4 Export | Ultra-smooth video rendering directly in your browser |