Loading OSM Maps on Garmin Devices

Garmin units are the standard for hikers, anglers, hunters and cyclists. Official maps are expensive and rarely updated. OpenStreetMap is an open alternative, and osm2cdr.ru lets you export the area you need to the Garmin IMG format with a single click.

The Garmin IMG format

IMG is Garmin's proprietary format for navigation maps. The file contains:

• The road network with routing (where available in OSM).
• POI (Points of Interest) — shops, fuel stations, landmarks.
• Outlines of buildings, parks and water bodies.
• Object labels in the language of the OSM region.

Installing on a device

1. Export the area in the Garmin IMG format on osm2cdr.ru.
2. Connect the unit to your computer via USB (Mass Storage mode).
3. Copy the .img file to the Garmin folder on the SD card or internal memory.
4. Restart the unit. The map will appear in the map list (Settings → Map → Map Information).

Garmin GPI — custom points

If you only need points of interest without a full map, use the Garmin GPI format. Export POI (restaurants, fuel stations, hotels) and load the file into the Garmin/POI folder. The unit will warn you as you approach the saved points.

Compatibility

IMG maps work on most Garmin devices: eTrex, GPSMAP, Montana, Oregon, Edge, Zumo. Devices in the Drive and DriveSmart series may require conversion via Garmin MapInstall.

Recommendations

• For hiking, choose the «detailed» detail level — it includes trails and forest roads.
• For driving navigation, use «city» or «regional» with the focus on the road network.
• IMG files can be combined: load maps of different regions onto a single SD card.