How to Show Elevation on Google Earth Map

Google Earth is a 3D mapping program that displays an interactive globe. You can zoom in and out of the map and can even get a detailed street view. The program uses satellite imaging to create the detailed maps. While there are certain default options set, you can manually go in and customize the settings. Use the options tab to show Google Earth's 3D view and display the elevation information on the maps. The menu differs on Windows and Mac computers.

Things You'll Need

• Google Earth program

Instructions

1. Start the program and open the "Layers" menu located in the bottom left part of the screen. Make sure the "Terrain" box is checked. Exit the menu.

2. Click "Tools" under the main menu, then select "Options."

3. Click on the tab labeled "3D View." Under the box "Show Elevation" select whether to show it in feet and miles or meters and kilometers. For Mac users, click "Preferences" and then "3D View."

4. Choose a location to view on Google Earth and move your mouse over the spot about which you want to know the elevation. The elevation will be in the bottom left corner of the 3D map viewer.

References

• Google Earth User Guide
• Google Earth: Using Layers

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish