The planetary boundary layer (PBL) mediates exchanges of energy, moisture, momentum, carbon, and pollutants between the surface and the atmosphere. This paper is a first step in producing a space‐based estimate of PBL depth that can be used to compare with and evaluate model‐based PBL depth retrievals, inform boundary layer studies, and improve understanding of the above processes. In clear sky conditions, space‐borne lidar backscatter is frequently affected by atmospheric properties near the PBL top. Spatial patterns of 5‐year mean mid‐day summertime PBL depths over North America were estimated from the CALIPSO lidar backscatter and are generally consistent with model reanalyses and AMDAR (Aircraft Meteorological DAta Reporting) estimates. The rate of retrieval is greatest over the subtropical oceans (near 100%) where overlying subsidence limits optically thick clouds from growing and attenuating the lidar signal. The general retrieval rate over land is around 50% with decreased rates over the Southwestern United States and regions with high rates of convection. The lidar‐based estimates of PBL depth tend to be shallower than aircraft estimates in coastal areas. Compared to reanalysis products, lidar PBL depths are greater over the oceans and areas of the boreal forest and shallower over the arid and semiarid regions of North America. Key Points PBL depth estimates can be derived from space‐borne lidar The algorithm is able to detect the relatively deep boreal forest PBL depths Estimates compare favorably over land w/ exceptions over SW US, water