What Is the Highest State Capital in the U.S.?

Denver: The Mile High Capital

Denver, Colorado is the highest state capital in the United States, sitting at exactly 5,280 feet (1,609 meters) above sea level – one mile high.

Why Denver?

• Located on the High Plains at the foot of the Rocky Mountains.
• The "Mile High" marker is on the west steps of the State Capitol building (15th step).
• Thinner air: ~17% less oxygen than sea level; affects baking, athletics, alcohol tolerance.

Other High Capitals (for Comparison)

Wait – Cheyenne and Santa Fe are higher! Why is Denver called the highest?

Correction: Santa Fe, New Mexico (7,199 ft) is actually the highest state capital. Denver is the highest major city (>500k population) and often mistakenly cited as highest capital. Cheyenne, WY (6,062 ft) is also higher than Denver.