Google Maps, Google's mapping tool, is full of often overlooked options that can be very useful. For example, we have already seen how to see latitude and longitude of a place. Today we are going to look at another interesting feature: thedisplay altitude on google maps. This option can be particularly useful for planning hikes or simply knowing the altitude of a specific location.
Whether you're using Google Maps on a computer or mobile device, it's easy to take advantage of this feature. So let's get started!
Show altitude on Google Maps on computer
On your computer, go to Google Maps.
In the box at the top left of the screen, find the location whose altitude you want to know.
Once the location is visible on the screen, click on the "layers" frame at the bottom right of the map. In the list of choices, select the option Relief.
The Google Maps base map will then display a view of the reliefs as well as a small indicator at the bottom in the middle of the map titled Relief and offering to display relief and altitude. Enable this option if it was not already enabled.
Then zoom in on the map and you will see the elevation lines appear which allow you to know the altitude of the place you are interested in. Avoid zooming in too much otherwise the contour lines will disappear.
The contour lines are lines that connect points of the same altitude on a map. They allow you to visually represent the relief of a geographical area. The closer the contour lines are, the steeper the terrain. Thus, by displaying the contour lines on Google Maps, you can quickly see the topography of the place you are interested in.
Show altitude on Google Maps on mobile
The Google Maps mobile application on your smartphone also allows you to view contour lines.
To get started, head over to the Google Maps app on your mobile. Search for the location you're interested in using the search box at the top of the screen.
Once your location has been found, find the icon with stacked squares at the top right, below the search field, and click on it. This button will open the map options.
In the card type, choose the option titled Relief. Close the option window by clicking on the cross at the top right.
The base map will then display the relief as well as the contour lines. Zoom in on the map to make them appear. Be careful not to zoom in too much, otherwise they will disappear.
And there you have it! Now you know how to make altitude appear on Google Maps!
In conclusion, Google Maps allows you to view and use altitude information in a somewhat roundabout way. Whether it is to plan a hike, check the elevation of a bike route or simply out of curiosity, displaying altitude on Google Maps is a valuable tool to add to your arsenal of cartographic knowledge. Don't hesitate to explore all the features offered by Google Maps to get the most out of this versatile and powerful tool.
Frequently asked questions about altitude on Google Maps
How can I know my real-time altitude on Google Maps?
Google Maps does not directly offer a feature to display real-time altitude. However, you can use third-party applications that rely on Google Maps data, such as "My Altitude" or "GPS Altimeter+". These applications will provide you with accurate real-time altitude information and allow you to track your progress as you travel.
How can I use elevation information on Google Maps to plan my hikes or bike rides?
Viewing elevation on Google Maps can help you plan your hikes or bike rides by allowing you to visualize the terrain and elevation changes of a route. The contour lines will give you an idea of the topography of the terrain, allowing you to avoid steep slopes or, on the contrary, choose a hillier route if you want to take on a challenge.
You can also use third-party hiking or cycling apps that draw on Google Maps data and offer specific features to help you plan and track your routes, taking into account altitude and terrain.
Can you display the slope or percentage of elevation on Google Maps?
Google Maps does not directly offer a function to display the slope or the percentage of elevation difference on the map. However, you can get a rough idea of the slope by looking at the contour lines: the closer they are together, the steeper the terrain.
To get more accurate information about the slope or percentage of elevation, you can use third-party applications or specialized websites that calculate this data using elevation information provided by Google Maps or other map sources.
Article updated on September 15, 2025 by Byothe
very interesting on PC but totally unreadable on smartphone. Sniff!!
Thanks for this tip! I always wanted to know how to display altitude on Google Maps, and your clear explanation was very helpful. Looking forward to trying this on my next hikes!
You can also use third-party apps dedicated to hiking or cycling, which rely on Google Maps data and offer specific features for
Thanks for this tip! I've always wanted to know how to display elevation on Google Maps, and your clear explanation really helped. I can't wait to try this out on my next hikes!
Until now, I only knew Google Maps for navigation, but it turns out it can also be used to check altitude. Thanks for the info!
Thanks for the helpful tip! I was just wondering how to display elevation data on Google Maps, and your clear explanation helped me a lot. I can't wait to try it on my next hikes!
“The altitude feature in Google Maps is really useful, especially when exploring hilly areas or high terrains. I personally use it a lot for trip planning. By the way, I also run a PC gaming guide site where I share tips and best game selections many games have maps and terrains that feel quite similar to real-life altitude data, which I always find interesting
This guide on displaying elevation in Google Maps is super helpful! I didn't know about the relief and contour lines option before. I can't wait to use this feature to plan my next hike. Thanks for explaining it so clearly!
thanks for sharing