Denver, famously known as the Mile High City, sits exactly 5,280 feet above sea level—and it’s packed with adventure, stunning landscapes, and endless outdoor fun. From jaw-dropping mountain views to top-tier hiking trails, world-class ski resorts, and expansive parks, Denver is the ultimate playground for nature lovers. But here’s the thing: that high altitude can catch you off guard if you’re not prepared. Think thinner air, possible shortness of breath, and even a touch of altitude sickness for some.
At Zaca, we know a thing or two about thriving at high altitudes. Based in Denver for over 15 years, we’ve gained vast experience helping people adapt to the Mile High lifestyle. Whether you’re heading to Denver for a weekend escape, a ski trip in the Rockies, or to soak up the vibrant culture of Colorado’s capital, understanding how the city’s elevation can impact you is key to ensuring your time here is nothing short of amazing. Don’t worry—it’s nothing a little preparation (and maybe a little help from Zaca) can’t handle.
This guide is your go-to for navigating Denver’s altitude, beating altitude sickness, and making the most of your trip. From iconic landmarks to outdoor adventures, we’ve got you covered. Whether it’s your first time here or your tenth, Denver’s unbeatable mix of natural beauty and urban charm makes it a destination you’ll want to keep coming back to. Let’s explore, mile-high style!
Nicknamed the Mile High City, Denver, Colorado, sits 5,280 feet above sea level, giving it a unique charm (and thinner air!). With its stunning mountain views, vibrant neighborhoods, and endless outdoor activities, Denver is one of the most desirable cities in the United States. Add in 300 days of sunshine a year, and it’s a city begging to be explored.
Denver offers the perfect mix of urban excitement and outdoor adventure. Stroll through the trendy RiNo (River North) Art District to find colorful murals, craft breweries, and buzzing coffee shops. Visit Union Station, a historic train station turned dining and shopping hub, or catch a game at Coors Field or Empower Field at Mile High. Music lovers can head to Red Rocks Amphitheatre (it's awesome), just a short drive away, for an unforgettable concert experience.
Beyond the city, Colorado is a paradise for nature lovers. Tourists flock year-round to breathtaking spots like Pike’s Peak, Garden of the Gods, and Rocky Mountain National Park. Whether you’re hiking, biking, skiing, or simply soaking in the views, Colorado has it all.
Quick Facts About Denver:
Whether you’re strolling through Denver’s bustling downtown or gearing up for skiing in the Rockies, everything you do in Denver comes with a touch of elevation adventure, which also comes with altitude risks.
Denver sits at an impressive elevation, making it one of the highest metropolitan areas in the U.S. That’s why it’s famously called "The Mile High City." If you’re planning a visit to Denver—or even nearby Colorado Springs—be sure to prepare for the altitude, especially if you’re not already acclimated.
Adjusting to high altitude can be challenging. For practical advice on managing it, explore our tips below (including packing Zaca's chewable tablets for mountain traveling).
Yes, Denver’s elevation is considered high altitude. Any location above 5,000 feet is classified as such, meaning the city is on the threshold of what constitutes a high-altitude environment. For comparison, air pressure and oxygen levels in Denver are approximately 17% lower than at sea level (source: Hypoxico).
Denver may be one of the most renowned high-altitude cities in the U.S., but it’s far from the only one. In fact, several other cities match its elevation, with some even surpassing it. For instance, from the lowest to the highest altitude:
Denver’s elevation may be average among high-altitude cities, but for visitors arriving from sea level, it’s still a notable adjustment.
In Denver, about 10% percent of visitors are reported to experience altitude sickness (source: DenverPost), though anecdotal evidence we see suggest the actual number could be even higher. Having spent over a decade in Denver we've observed that many visitors struggle with mild altitude sickness symptoms in some form or another without without realizing their cause. Things like subtle headaches all day, feeling really tired, or not sleeping well.
The likelihood increases for travelers heading from Denver to higher mountain towns like Breckenridge or Vail, according to the University of Colorado School of Medicine, 25%-30% percent of visitors in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado get acute mountain sickness. If you’re planning to head to higher elevations in Colorado, like the ski towns at 8,000–10,000 feet, you might feel the effects more strongly, so acclimating in Denver first is a great idea.
While altitude sickness (acute mountain sickness) in Denver may be mild, it's more common than we think some realize. Symptoms might include:
(source: RockyMountainIVMedics)
Most people experience mild symptoms at Denver’s altitude (5,280 feet), but staying hydrated, avoiding alcohol, and taking it easy during your first few days can help prevent discomfort.
As a Colorado-based company with over 10 years of experience navigating high-altitude living, we understand the importance of staying healthy and acclimated. Whether you're visiting Denver for the first time or returning as a seasoned pro, following expert tips can make all the difference in preventing altitude sickness.
Stay hydrated when you land in Denver—your body will thank you! Altitude sickness is no fun, and dehydration is one of the top culprits. Start sipping water as soon as you arrive and keep it up throughout your stay.
Want to level up your hydration? Add electrolytes to your water, sprinkle some sea salt on your food (it’s packed with up to 84 electrolytes and minerals), or try Zaca chewables for an extra hydration support. Cheers to feeling your best at altitude!
Ensure you get plenty of rest and avoid intense physical activities during your first 1-2 days at high altitude. Overexertion can increase your risk of altitude sickness or worsen existing symptoms.
To help avoid altitude sickness in Colorado, allow your body sufficient time to acclimate as you ascend to higher elevations. Breathe slowly and deeply to take in more oxygen. If you’re visiting higher altitude destinations like Vail, Breckenridge, Colorado Springs, or Aspen, consider spending at least one night in Denver.
Pro tip: Prioritize good sleep during this time—rest helps your body adjust and recover better to the altitude before continuing your journey (source: OrthoCarolina).
We get it—kicking back with a drink sounds fun, especially when you're on vacation or celebrating in a beautiful mountain setting. However, at high altitudes, alcohol can dehydrate you much faster than it would at sea level, and dehydration is one of the key factors that can worsen altitude sickness. Even a couple of drinks can leave you feeling more lightheaded or fatigued than usual.
To avoid amplifying symptoms like headaches, nausea, or dizziness, it’s best to keep alcohol consumption light, especially on your first day while your body is still adjusting. Instead, focus on staying hydrated with water or electrolyte drinks. Your body will thank you for giving it time to acclimate!
And when the time is right, our favorite breweries in Denver you should visit: Great Divide Brewery and Prost Brewing!
Locals swear by our Zaca's chewable tablets—it’s like a little pocket-sized lifesaver for mountain trips. These tasty chewables replenish your body with hydration support, antioxidants, and amino acids.
Plus, they help boost glutathione levels, your body’s “master antioxidant,” which can drop significantly at higher elevations. A study has shown that high altitude can significant decrease glutathione by 43%-45%. Zaca helps replenish your glutathione levels to combat free radical damage.
Pro tip: Take 1–2 packets the day before you arrive in Denver, then one packet daily during your trip (or more if you need it). You’ll feel better, faster. You can find Zaca at local stores all over Colorado!
Stay hydrated, pace yourself, go easy on the alcohol, and don’t forget to pack some Zaca to enjoy every moment of your trip to the Mile High City!
Denver isn’t just about mountains and skiing—it’s a city bursting with a diverse range of options like other major cities in likes of Austin Texas and Charlotte North Carolina. Whether you’re here for a quick getaway or a longer stay, there’s no shortage of things to do. From outdoor adventures nearby to the city life, Denver has something for everyone. Let’s dive into some must-see attractions, including the most popular outdoor activities, to help you make the most of your trip!
If you’re planning a trip during the winter, you’re in for a treat! Check out our amazing ski resorts near Denver—they’re perfect for hitting the slopes and enjoying the snowy season, or having Après-ski (our Zaca fav!). Btw...make sure to attitude prep well, as these resorts go a lot higher than denver!
Most people adjust to Denver’s elevation within 1–3 days, but it really depends on your body and how you prepare. Acclimation often depends on where you're coming from, which can be particularly challenging for those coming from sea-level regions like Florida or California.
Yes, it can be harder to breathe in Denver for many visitors due to the higher altitude and lower oxygen levels compared to sea-level regions. As air pressure decreases with less oxygen in Denver at 5280 feet high, the body works harder to breathe and distribute oxygen throughout the body. The air at Denver’s elevation contains about 17% oxygen, compared to 21% at sea level. This difference can result in shortness of breath, fatigue, or lightheadedness, especially for newcomers.
Yes, it is! Denver’s nickname “The Mile High City” isn’t just a catchy phrase—it’s a literal fact. The 13th step on the west side of the Colorado State Capitol building is marked as being exactly one mile (5,280 feet) above sea level. You’ll also find markers throughout the city celebrating this unique "mile-high" elevation.
Denver is the only city that's exactly one mile high at 5,280 feet. While it's the most well-known Mile High City, there's other cities that exceed a mile high, including ones like Santa Fe, New Mexico, and Laramie, Wyoming. However, Denver has truly embraced its mile-high status in culture, branding, and sports (shoutout to the Denver Broncos playing in Mile High Stadium!).
Altitude sickness can be a real bummer, but the good news is that it’s avoidable if you take the right steps! In this guide, we shared fours tips above to help you prepare for high-altitude travel.
Give your body the time it needs to acclimate, and you’ll be ready to enjoy everything Denver has to offer—without missing a beat!
Acetazolamide, commonly known as Diamox, is a medication often used to prevent or reduce symptoms of altitude sickness. While most visitors to Denver experience only mild symptoms that don’t usually require medication, it’s worth considering if you’re heading to the Rocky Mountains or planning to hike a 14'er. However, Diamox isn’t suitable for everyone. Be sure to consult your doctor before use, especially if you have any pre-existing health conditions.
The elevation of the Denver International Airport (DEN) is approximately 5,430 feet above sea level. Located about 25 miles from downtown Denver, it takes roughly 30-40 minutes to reach by car or Uber, depending on traffic. One tip as a local, prepare for taking longer time to reach and leave your gate, it's usually 5-15 minutes longer than most airports in our experience.
Denver’s elevation isn’t just what makes it unique—it’s part of its charm. With sunny skies, stunning mountain views, and endless adventures, the Mile High City offers something for everyone. Just remember, altitude sickness is common but manageable. Stay hydrated, take it easy your first day, and consider packing Zaca chewables to help your body adjust.
Once you’re ready, Denver is yours to explore. From unforgettable ski trips to world-class hiking and biking trails to a food lovers culinary scene and craft breweries, Denver has it all. Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, Denver has a way of capturing hearts. Come prepared, embrace the altitude, and get ready to fall in love with this Mile-High city. (and say hello to us if you're in town!)
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