I have had a hive hit 6-7 feet both this year and last year. Working a hive that is at/over head height is difficult. I am at 1 deep, 7 mediums, and about a medium sized quilt box on one hive right now, about 5 are filled with honey and 3 are/should be the brood nest.A 10 foot beehive would be a sight to behold....