lfranklin62, welcome to the message board. Stand height depends on a variety of factors dictated by the area you are hunting in. And yes situate it on trails and in the vicinty of food sources. Not all trees are created equal and neither are locations. The deer have to be there first. 12 feet can be adequate. I think you'll have to determine that for yourself. Just remember, don't position your stand so high in the tree that the ground is out of range. Good hunting.