Science Experiments for Kids
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How tall is a tree?

Modified: · Published: by · This post may contain affiliate links · 13 Comments

Have you ever looked up at a tree and wondered how tall it is? I’ve got a fun way you can find out without having to climb to the top with a tape measure!

Trees in the sunshine

How can you measure how tall a tree is?

We have an easy way to find out!

child bending over to try a fun technique for working out the height of a tree.

Why does it work?

This method of measuring the height of a tree is only an estimate but uses trigonometry. If you look at the top of a tree at a 45-degree angle, then the height of the tree (h) is the same as the distance that you are from the tree. 

More ideas for science in the forest.

Did you know you can make a weather station using pinecones?

Or how about collecting pinecones and leaves to make estimating jars?

Autumn Estimating Jars

Do you know the three different ways of working out how old a tree is?

A homemade wormery is always a fun outdoor activity, too and great for observing over a period of time.

We LOVE these cardboard nature hearts from learning through play!

You might also like my other easy science experiments for kids! I’ve got STEM Challenges, science fair project ideas and lots more exciting science experiments for kids of all ages.

Last Updated on May 10, 2023 by Emma Vanstone

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Safety Notice

Science Sparks ( Wild Sparks Enterprises Ltd ) are not liable for the actions of activity of any person who uses the information in this resource or in any of the suggested further resources. Science Sparks assume no liability with regard to injuries or damage to property that may occur as a result of using the information and carrying out the practical activities contained in this resource or in any of the suggested further resources.

These activities are designed to be carried out by children working with a parent, guardian or other appropriate adult. The adult involved is fully responsible for ensuring that the activities are carried out safely.

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Liz Burton

    That is GENIUS!!! I have to try this out with Ruby. x

    Reply

  2. JDaniel4's Mom

    I have never heard this before. Cool!

    Reply

  3. Mary

    I love this!!!! I’ve never heard of it either but can’t wait to try it with my kids!

    Reply

    • maggy, red ted art

      (Thank you for sharing on Kids Get Crafty!!)

      Maggy

      Reply

    • ScienceSparks

      We loved it!

      Reply

  4. HELEN

    absolute genius! you are a minefield of information! x

    Reply

    • ScienceSparks

      Ha ha, thanks!

      Reply

  5. Isil

    I love this.Thanks for sharing.

    Reply

    • ScienceSparks

      Thank you.

      Reply

  6. maggy, red ted art

    Well I never!! Once you explained it, it all made sense, but before it seemed like MAGIC! YAY!

    Reply

    • ScienceSparks

      Its funny isn’t it?

      Reply

  7. Regina @ Chalk In My Pocket

    Sophmore year trig just came flooding back to me upon seeing the illustration! I LOVE this idea and it’s timing is perfect as my daughter has been asking how tall some of our hundred year old poplar tulips are. They tower over our house and I’m estimating they’re at least 120 feet tall. So would this method work on an incline or would that skew the right angle?

    Reply

  8. Ann

    I SO love this post!!! Love the idea of introducing my young kids to something they otherwise won’t get until high school.

    Reply

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