Golf Distance Altitude Calculator
Golf Altitude Distance Calculator – How Far Will Your Shot Travel?
Planning a golf trip to the mountains or a high-elevation course? Use our Golf Altitude Distance Calculator to estimate how much farther your shots will travel based on elevation.
Altitude has a measurable impact on how far the golf ball flies — with thinner air at higher elevations offering less resistance and more carry.
Estimate how far your shot will travel at different altitudes.
What This Calculator Does:
Takes your normal sea level carry distance
Asks for the altitude of the course (in feet)
Calculates your adjusted carry distance using the standard estimate:
Gain ~2% carry distance for every 1,000 feet of elevation
Why Altitude Affects Golf Ball Distance:
Thinner air = less drag = more carry
High-elevation courses can add 10–15 yards (or more) to a typical iron shot
Understanding this effect helps with better club selection and course strategy
Example:
Sea level 7-iron = 150 yards
Playing at 5,000 ft elevation
Distance increase: 150 × (0.02 × 5) = +15 yards
Adjusted distance: 165 yards
This simple calculation can help you avoid overshooting greens and dial in your club selection when golfing at altitude.
Altitude adjustments aren’t just for mountain golf! Even moderate elevation (1,000–2,000 ft) can add a few yards to your shots — which could mean the difference between pin-high and a tough chip shot.
Who Should Use This Tool?
Golfers traveling to high-altitude destinations like Colorado, Utah, or Mexico
Competitive players preparing for elevation changes in tournaments
Anyone curious about how elevation impacts golf shot performance