OpenRoute MCP

What is OpenRoute MCP?

OpenRoute MCP is a Model Context Protocol (MCP) server for planning routes using the OpenRouteService API, designed for activities such as hiking and mountain biking.

How to use OpenRoute MCP?

Set the OPENROUTESERVICE_API_KEY environment variable (obtain a free key from openrouteservice.org), then run uvx openroute-mcp with stdio transport, or use openroute-mcp --http for a streamable HTTP server. Configure your MCP client (e.g., VSCode) to connect via the mcp.json file.

Key features of OpenRoute MCP

• Geocode locations to coordinates and reverse geocode coordinates to addresses.
• Create routes with optional waypoints, returning GPX, PNG, and HTML outputs.
• Search for Points of Interest (POIs) within a bounding box.
• Find known trails (currently only in Switzerland) to suggest waypoints.
• Compute reachable areas within a given time or distance (isochrones).
• Serve generated route files via resources (GPX, PNG, HTML).

Use cases of OpenRoute MCP

• Plan hiking or mountain biking routes with waypoints and visual maps.
• Search for nearby gas stations, restaurants, or other POIs along a route.
• Determine the area reachable within a set time from a starting point.
• Integrate route planning into AI assistants like GitHub Copilot in VSCode.

FAQ from OpenRoute MCP

Do I need an API key?

Yes, you must obtain a free API key from openrouteservice.org and set it via the OPENROUTESERVICE_API_KEY environment variable.

Are the routes guaranteed safe?

No. The routes are for informational purposes only and are not guaranteed to be safe, legal, or suitable. Always verify routes independently with official maps and local authorities.

How can I view the generated GPX?

Copy the full GPX content returned by the tool and paste it into a service like gpx.studio to visualize the route on a map.

Can I run OpenRoute MCP over HTTP?

Yes. Use the --http flag to start a Streamable HTTP server. You can also connect to a public instance at https://openroute-mcp.onrender.com/mcp (note: routes on a public server are publicly accessible).

Where are generated routes saved?

By default, routes are saved to disk in the current working directory. Use --data-folder to specify a custom folder or --no-save to disable saving (which also disables image and HTML generation).