Ever wondered how high up you are when hiking a mountain or if your house is above sea level? Google Maps can give you that information in just a few clicks. By following a simple process, you can find the elevation of any place on earth using Google Maps. Let’s dive in and discover how to use this handy feature.
How to Find Elevation on Google Maps Tutorial
Have you ever needed to know the elevation of a particular spot, either for curiosity or practical reasons? Google Maps has a nifty feature that allows you to do just that. Below, we’ll go through the steps to find the elevation of any location using Google Maps.
Step 1: Open Google Maps
Open Google Maps in your web browser or on your mobile app.
Google Maps is available on both desktop and mobile platforms. For the most accurate results, ensure you have an internet connection. If you’re using a browser, navigate to the Google Maps website, or open the app on your phone.
Step 2: Enter the location
Type the location you want to find the elevation for in the search bar and press ‘Enter’.
Once you’ve got Google Maps open, use the search bar at the top of the screen to enter the location you’re interested in. You can be as specific as a street address or as broad as a city or mountain range.
Step 3: Right-click on the map
Once the location appears on the map, right-click on the exact spot you want to check the elevation for.
After searching for your location, right-click (or tap and hold if you’re on mobile) on the exact spot on the map where you want the elevation data. A small menu will pop up.
Step 4: Select ‘Elevation’ from the menu
From the menu that appears, select the ‘Elevation’ option.
In the menu that pops up after right-clicking, look for an option that says ‘Elevation’ or something similar. Click on this to proceed.
Step 5: View the elevation
The elevation of the selected location will be displayed in a small box on the map.
After selecting the ‘Elevation’ option, Google Maps will display the elevation of the spot you’ve chosen in a small box on the map. This is usually measured in feet or meters, depending on your settings.
Once you’ve completed these steps, you should have a clear idea of the elevation of the location you’ve chosen. This can be useful for various reasons, from planning a hiking trip to determining if a particular area is prone to flooding.
Tips for Finding Elevation on Google Maps
Finding elevation on Google Maps is pretty straightforward, but here are some additional tips to ensure you get the most accurate and useful information:
- Zoom in as close as possible to the location you’re interested in before right-clicking to get the most precise elevation data.
- Keep in mind that elevation data may not be available for all areas, especially those that are particularly remote or have not been mapped in detail.
- The elevation provided by Google Maps is an estimate and may not be 100% accurate, so if you need precision for a project or other important purposes, consider using a professional survey.
- You can check the elevation of multiple spots by right-clicking on different areas of the map and repeating the process.
- If you’re planning to use this feature for outdoor activities, remember that weather conditions can affect elevation measurements, so consider checking multiple sources.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I find elevation on Google Maps on my mobile device?
Yes, the elevation feature is available on the Google Maps mobile app. The process is similar to the desktop version.
What units does Google Maps use for elevation?
Google Maps usually displays elevation in feet or meters, depending on your location and settings.
How accurate is the elevation data on Google Maps?
The elevation data on Google Maps is an estimate and should be sufficient for general use. However, it may not be accurate enough for precise applications.
Why can’t I find the elevation option for some locations?
Elevation data might not be available for all areas, particularly those that are remote or have not been mapped in detail.
Can I find the elevation of a route on Google Maps?
Google Maps does not currently provide elevation data for routes. However, there are third-party tools that can estimate this using Google Maps data.
Summary
- Open Google Maps.
- Enter the location.
- Right-click on the map.
- Select ‘Elevation’ from the menu.
- View the elevation.
Conclusion
Finding elevation on Google Maps is a breeze once you get the hang of it. Whether you’re a hiker planning your next trail, a construction worker assessing a job site, or just someone curious about the topography of your area, this feature is incredibly useful. It’s one of the many ways technology makes our lives easier and more interesting. While it’s important to remember that this tool provides an estimate, not a precise measurement, it’s still a valuable resource for everyday use. So next time you’re on an adventure or need elevation data, give Google Maps a try – you might be surprised by what you find out!
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.