Estimate tree height using angle and distance, shadow length, or similar triangles. This tree height calculator can help measure trees, poles, shrubs, and other tall outdoor objects without climbing or cutting.
Angle and distance method:
The calculator multiplies your distance from the tree by the tangent of the angle to the treetop, then adds your eye or instrument height.
Shadow method:
The calculator compares the tree shadow to the shadow of a known object, then scales the known object height to estimate tree height.
Similar triangle method:
This method uses the same formula as the shadow method and is useful with a stick, pole, person, or other measured object.
Slope adjustment:
A simple adjustment can be applied for uneven ground, but a level measurement gives the best estimate.
A tree height calculator helps estimate tree height without climbing, cutting, or using expensive forestry equipment.
It can be useful for homeowners, arborists, forestry projects, landscaping, gardening, wildlife planning, shade estimates, tree records, and outdoor education.
Your result shows estimated tree height in feet, meters, yards, inches, and centimeters. The calculator also shows the method used, slope adjustment, estimated range, and calculation summary. Tree height estimates can vary based on measurement accuracy, slope, shadow angle, tree lean, uneven ground, and how clearly the treetop can be seen.
You can estimate tree height by measuring your distance from the tree, measuring the angle to the top, and using the formula height equals distance times tangent of the angle plus eye height.
Yes. Measure the tree shadow, measure the shadow of a known object, then compare the two shadows using similar triangles.
No. It gives an estimate. Accuracy depends on distance measurement, angle measurement, ground slope, shadow clarity, and whether the tree is leaning.
The easiest method is often the shadow method on a sunny day or the angle method using a phone clinometer app and a measured distance from the tree.