Physical Features of Denver, Colorado

Denver's geography is defined by its high-elevation setting:

• Mountains: At the foot of the Rockies; views of Mount Evans, Pikes Peak, Longs Peak.
• Plateaus: South Platte River Valley plateau at ~5,300 ft, earning "Mile High City" nickname.
• Plains: Great Plains roll eastward with prairie grasslands.
• Rivers: South Platte River flows through; Cherry Creek and Clear Creek also significant.
• Parks & Green Spaces: City Park, Washington Park, Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre.
• Climate: Semi-arid; warm dry summers with thunderstorms, cold snowy winters.
• Elevation: ~5,280 ft above sea level; thin air, reduced atmospheric pressure.