Golf Elevation Calculator
Calculate how elevation and altitude affect your golf ball distance. Adjust club selection for mountain courses and high-altitude play.
Altitude Distance Effects
How elevation affects ball flight (based on 150 yard shot)
| Elevation | Distance Gain | 150 yd Becomes | Club Adjustment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sea Level | 0% | 150 yds | Standard |
| 2,000 ft (610 m) | +2% | 153 yds | Minimal change |
| 4,000 ft (1,220 m) | +4% | 156 yds | Half club less |
| 5,280 ft (1,609 m) - Denver | +5-6% | 158 yds | One club less |
| 7,000 ft (2,134 m) | +7% | 161 yds | 1-1.5 clubs less |
| 10,000 ft (3,048 m) | +10% | 165 yds | 1.5-2 clubs less |
The Science of Altitude Golf
- • Air density decreases ~3% per 1,000 ft elevation gain
- • Thinner air = less drag = ball travels farther
- • Effect is more pronounced on full shots than chips/putts
- • Hot, humid conditions also decrease air density
- • Adjust expectations - your ball will curve less in thin air too
Get Weekly Training Tips
Join our newsletter for expert insights, training advice, and performance tips delivered to your inbox.
No spam, unsubscribe anytime. We respect your privacy.
About the Golf Elevation & Altitude Calculator
Learn more about the calculator and its creator
Jonas
I'm a software developer and golf enthusiast. I built this calculator to help golfers adjust their distances when playing at altitude.
Understanding Golf Ball Flight at Altitude
Golf balls fly significantly farther at higher elevations due to thinner air. This calculator helps you adjust your club selection when playing at altitude, accounting for elevation and temperature effects on ball flight.
Understanding these adjustments is crucial for course management at mountain courses or when traveling to play at different elevations.
The Science Behind Altitude Distance
Air density decreases approximately 3% for every 1,000 feet (305m) of elevation gain. Thinner air means less drag on the golf ball, allowing it to travel farther.
Distance Increase ≈ Elevation (ft) × 0.003 = Percentage Gain
Altitude Distance Effects Chart
| Elevation | Distance Increase | 150 yd Becomes | Club Adjustment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sea Level | 0% | 150 yards | Standard |
| 2,500 ft (760m) | +2.5% | 154 yards | Half club less |
| 5,280 ft (1,609m) - Denver | +5-6% | 158 yards | One club less |
| 7,500 ft (2,286m) | +7.5% | 161 yards | 1-1.5 clubs less |
| 10,000 ft (3,048m) | +10% | 165 yards | 1.5-2 clubs less |
Temperature Effects
Temperature also affects air density. Warmer air is less dense than cooler air, adding to the altitude effect:
- Above 70°F (21°C): Ball flies farther (add ~0.1% per degree)
- Below 70°F (21°C): Ball flies shorter (subtract ~0.1% per degree)
- Very cold conditions (<50°F/10°C): Ball also loses compression, reducing distance more
Other Effects at Altitude
-
1
Less Curve
Thinner air means less sidespin effect—your hooks and slices won't curve as much
-
2
Higher Ball Flight
Less drag allows the ball to climb higher, which can affect wind exposure
-
3
More Roll
Higher landing angle but firmer mountain conditions often increase roll
-
4
Putting Unaffected
Altitude has minimal effect on putting—the ball rolls on the ground regardless of air density
Famous High-Altitude Courses
| Course/Location | Elevation | Distance Effect |
|---|---|---|
| La Paz, Bolivia | 11,942 ft | +12% |
| Mexico City | 7,350 ft | +7% |
| Lake Tahoe | 6,225 ft | +6% |
| Denver, CO | 5,280 ft | +5% |
| Johannesburg, SA | 5,751 ft | +6% |
Pro Tip:
When playing at altitude for the first time, spend time on the range to calibrate your distances before your round. The adjustment can feel counterintuitive—trust the numbers and commit to taking less club.
Note: This calculator provides estimates based on elevation. Actual results may vary based on humidity, ball type, and individual swing characteristics.
Related Tools & Guides
Frequently Asked Questions
Golf balls travel approximately 2-3% farther per 1,000 feet of elevation. At Denver's elevation (5,280 ft), expect 5-6% more distance. At 10,000 feet, balls fly about 10% farther than at sea level.
Thinner air at altitude creates less drag on the golf ball. With reduced air resistance, the ball maintains more speed through its flight and travels farther. The effect is more pronounced on full shots than short game shots.
Yes, thinner air means less sidespin effect, so hooks and slices curve less at altitude. The ball also tends to fly higher with a steeper descent angle, which can affect how it reacts on landing.
As a general rule, take one less club for every 5,000 feet of elevation. At Denver, hit one club less than normal. At 7,500+ feet, consider 1.5 clubs less. Always spend time on the range to calibrate before playing.
How much does altitude affect golf ball distance?
Why does altitude make the ball go farther?
Does altitude affect ball curve and spin?
How should I adjust my club selection at altitude?
Helpful Guides
Learn more with these related articles and guides
Related Calculators
Other helpful calculators for Golf
Golf Handicap Calculator
Calculate your golf handicap for a course using your handicap index and course data.
Golf Club Distance Calculator
Calculate expected carry and total distances for each golf club based on your swing speed or skill level.
Golf Calorie Calculator
Calculate calories burned playing golf with different modes and equipment choices