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In this article we will explain how to Find Elevation on Google Maps. Since many years ago, Google Earth has been a cool app for browsing the earth’s surface. The more recent versions, on the other hand, come with a plethora of new tools, display representations of our planet that are increasingly accurate, and enable users to make use of the application in a variety of novel ways. You are able to create a path and view its elevation profile by using the tool referred to as the Elevation Profile. In addition, wherever you point your cursor on the map, Google Earth will display the elevation of that location. The current elevation of the cursor can be found in the lower right corner of the screen.
You can easily find the elevation of almost any location using Google Maps, which is helpful if you are preparing to go on a hike or are just curious about the differences in elevation between different areas. This will show you how to use it on your desktop computer as well as your mobile devices. When you’re driving, obtaining terrain elevation data is typically unimportant; however, when you’re cycling or hiking, it can be of critical importance. Unfortunately, it is not available in all locations; the majority of the time, it is restricted to mountainous regions. The following is a guide that will show you how to Find Elevation on Google Maps when it is available.
What is elevation?
The feature on Google Maps known as “Elevation” displays a location’s altitude in relation to the mean sea level. On the map, it is depicted as colored contour lines, with higher elevations shown in darker colors than those of lower elevations. The elevation of a location can be helpful for a number of different things, including figuring out the likelihood of flooding, planning a hike, and locating a scenic viewpoint. It is also possible to use it to create three-dimensional models of the world, which can then be used for a variety of applications including gaming, simulation, and others.
When using Google Maps, you can see elevation by opening the map and then clicking the Layers button, which is located in the bottom right corner of the screen. After that, choose the Terrain layer from the list. The map will now display contour lines based on elevation. Additionally, you can zoom in on a location to see more specific elevation information for that location. When you zoom in on a mountain, for instance, you will notice that the contour lines are closer together at the summit. This indicates that the elevation is changing at a faster rate.
Additionally, a variety of tools for determining elevation can be found on Google Maps. You can use the Ruler tool, for instance, to determine the distance as well as the change in elevation that exists between two points on the map. You also have the option of using the Elevation profile tool, which displays a graph of the elevation changes that occur along a route.
How to Find Elevation on Google Maps

On phone:
- Open the Google Maps app.
- Tap the Layers button in the top right corner of the screen.
- Tap Terrain.
- Zoom in to the location where you want to find elevation.
- Elevation lines will appear on the map.
On PC:
- Open Google Maps in a web browser.
- Click the Layers button in the bottom right corner of the screen.
- Click Terrain.
- Zoom in to the location where you want to find elevation.
- Elevation lines will appear on the map.
Why is it important to find elevation?
- Navigation: Elevation is crucial for navigation, especially in hilly or mountainous terrain. It helps hikers, climbers, and travelers determine their current position and plan routes. Topographic maps often include elevation contours to assist with navigation.
- Flood Risk Assessment: Knowing the elevation of an area is essential for assessing flood risks. It helps determine if a location is prone to flooding during heavy rains or storms, which is vital for urban planning and disaster preparedness.
- Agriculture: Elevation data is used in agriculture to assess the suitability of land for crops. Different crops thrive at different elevations, so knowing the elevation of a field can guide farmers in crop selection and cultivation practices.
- Construction and Engineering: Architects, engineers, and builders use elevation data to design and construct buildings, roads, bridges, and infrastructure projects. Elevation information ensures that structures are built level and at the correct height.
- Weather Forecasting: Meteorologists use elevation data to predict weather patterns and temperatures. Differences in elevation can lead to variations in climate and weather conditions, such as temperature changes and precipitation.
- Aviation: Pilots rely on elevation data to determine safe altitudes for takeoff and landing. Knowing the elevation of runways and terrain around airports is critical for aviation safety.
Alternative Elevation Tools and Websites
Tool/Website | Description | URL |
---|---|---|
USGS Elevation Data | The United States Geological Survey (USGS) provides elevation data for the United States. | USGS National Map |
Google Earth | Google Earth offers elevation data and a 3D view of the Earth’s surface. | Google Earth |
OpenTopoMap | OpenTopoMap is an open-source topographic map that provides elevation information. | OpenTopoMap |
Caltopo | Caltopo is a mapping tool that includes elevation profiles and contour lines. | Caltopo |
PeakVisor | PeakVisor is a mobile app that uses augmented reality to display peak names and elevations. | PeakVisor |
Strava | Strava, a fitness app, provides elevation data for running and cycling routes. | Strava |
EarthExplorer | EarthExplorer, by USGS, allows users to access various geospatial data, including elevation data. | EarthExplorer |
National Geographic TOPO! | TOPO! is a mapping software with elevation profiles and contour lines. | National Geographic TOPO! |
Conclusion
The use of Google Maps has fundamentally changed not only how people get from one location to another but also how they find new places to go. People who live in mountainous areas can get a better sense of the elevation of the area they’re exploring by using Google Maps, which comes equipped with a wide range of features. These features include options to see the terrain and elevation. The terrain feature of Google Maps can be activated on either a desktop computer or a mobile device by users. Take note that Google Maps does not provide elevation data for all regions; the “elevation” option is only available for areas that are naturally mountainous.
Questions and Answers
The pricing model utilized by the Elevation API is known as pay-as-you-go. Requests made to the Elevation API will always result in calls being made to the same SKU, with the exception of mobile-native apps. In addition to the general Google Terms of Service, there are also usage restrictions that are particular to the Elevation API. Utilizing the tools provided by the Google Cloud Console, you can keep track of both your expenses and your usage.
Even though they are not officially recognized as pressure altitude sources, GPS receivers have the ability to calculate a GPS-derived altitude value for the receiver by triangulating the GPS satellite signals that they have received. This formula for triangulation is utilized at all times and offers the same level of accuracy regardless of the altitude.
My Altitude is able to determine your current location by using GPS signals. It displays your latitude, longitude, altitude (height above sea level), barometric pressure, and the temperature at which water boils.