In my previous three.js experiments ( 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 , 5 ) I've only used static files to load terrains and textures. Jarle Pedersen at the Norwegian Mapping Authority has been experimenting with web map services to create 3D terrains. Jarle is using a modified Web Coverage Service (WCS) to transfer elevation data and a Web Map Service (WMS) for the texture. As WCS don't support a raster format easily parsed with JavaScript, he extended the service to deliver data in a gridded XYZ format ( easting, northing and elevation). I've used this service to get elevation data for my map of Jotunheimen: http://openwms.statkart.no/skwms1/wcs.dtm?SERVICE=WCS&VERSION=1.0.0&REQUEST=GetCoverage& COVERAGE=land_utm33_10m& FORMAT=XYZ & CRS=EPSG:32632 & bbox=432000,6790000,492000,6850000 & WIDTH=200 & HEIGHT=200 The service returns data as text: 432150 6849850 1394.54736328125 432450 6849850 1448.778076171875 432750 6849850 1493.230468...