How to measure 2D distances

Available with 3D Analyst license.

Measuring 2D distances using the Measure Length On Ground tool, in the scene allows you to find the distance between points of interest.

1. Click the Measure tool on the Tools toolbar.
The Measure window appears.
2. Click the Measure Length On Ground tool.
3. Click the point of interest where you want to start measuring the 2D distance.
4. Move the pointer to the next point of interest and click to measure the 2D distance. If you want to continue measuring distances to other points, simply move the pointer to another location and click to add additional vertices.
5. Double-click where you want to end the line.

The distance between the last two points of interest, along with the total distance from the starting point, is displayed on the Measure dialog box.

Tip:

You can also press and hold SPACE to navigate in the middle of a measure sketch if you need to change the perspective. The pointer changes mode without you having to switch tools on the toolbar. As a best practice for navigating during a measure sketch, use ESC to pause and TAB to resume.