Playing Golf at Elevation

Playing golf at elevation differs noticeably from playing at sea level, primarily because of changes in air density. At higher elevations, the air is thinner, which reduces aerodynamic drag on the golf ball. As a result, shots can travel farther for the same swing speed. Depending on altitude and conditions, golfers may see distance increases of roughly 5–10% or more compared to sea level. This can be exciting, but it also requires recalibration—familiar yardages no longer apply, and club selection becomes a more deliberate process.

Ball flight characteristics also change at elevation. With less air resistance, the ball lifts less, which can lead to a flatter trajectory and reduced curvature on shots. Draws and fades tend to be more subtle, making it harder to work the ball intentionally but easier to hit straighter shots. However, the reduced trajectory also means approach shots will not stop as quickly on the green, forcing players to land the ball shorter or use different shot strategies.  This lower ball flight trajectory may also force players to change equipment, adding loft to their clubs or substituting higher launch clubs for their lower lofted clubs, i.e. replace a long iron with a hybrid or replace a hybrid with a high lofted fairway wood. 

Beyond physics, course management and environmental factors play a larger role at elevation. Elevated courses are often drier, leading to firmer fairways and additional roll after landing, further increasing total distance. Wind can be harder to judge because thinner air lessens its effect on the ball, even though the wind may feel strong to the player. Compared to sea level golf—where distances, spin, and shot behavior are more predictable—golf at elevation rewards adaptability, thoughtful planning, and a willingness to trust adjusted numbers rather than instinct. 

Several years back, Titleist conducted a study that found that you can calculate the distance gain you will experience (compared to sea level) by multiplying the elevation change (in feet) by .00116. For example, if you're playing in Denver (instead of sea level), at 1 mile elevation (5,280 ft.) the increase is about 6% (5,280 x .00116 = 6.1248). If you normally drive the ball 250 yards at sea level, you will likely drive it 265 yards in Denver.  The percent increase will be less for players with slower swing speeds and/or when hitting a shorter shot. But on a mid to long approach shot, that could still make a one club difference, so plan accordingly.

Written by Dale Abraham with AI