Denver, Colorado is known as the Mile High City because it measures exactly one mile above sea level. Founded during the Pikes Peak Gold Rush, Denver offers great views of the Rocky Mountains and outdoor activities. Visitors may experience altitude sickness, which can be relieved by drinking lots of water and avoiding alcohol and strenuous activity. People with health issues should consult a doctor before traveling to high altitudes. Other cities with higher elevations include Potosi, Bolivia, Lhasa, Tibet, and Lijiang, China.
Denver, the capital of the US state of Colorado, is nicknamed Mile High City because, at one of its points, it measures 5,280m high. This measurement is exactly one mile above sea level. A round piece of brass set into one of the steps to the western entrance to the Colorado State Capitol building marks the exact spot where Denver’s elevation is exactly one mile high.
Unlike most American cities that were centered near a railroad, seaport, or other transportation hub, Denver was an early gold center. Denver was founded in 1858 during the Pikes Peak Gold Rush and incorporated in 1861. Being so far above sea level, Denver offers great views of the Rocky Mountains. Although Denver is Colorado’s largest city, many people also enjoy the outdoor activities its natural beauty offers.
Since many travelers are unaccustomed to such high elevations as the Mile High City, it may take some people a few days to adjust. For some, no adjustment is needed, while others suffer from altitude sickness. Altitude sickness often includes headaches and stomach pains. Drinking lots of water can help relieve symptoms. You also need to drink enough water in Denver and most of Colorado, as the climate tends to be dry.
People prone to altitude sickness should avoid alcohol and strenuous activity for at least a couple of days. Those who live at or near sea level may be especially prone to altitude sickness upon arrival in Denver. A doctor may prescribe medications such as acetazolamide to help prevent or reduce headaches and nausea associated with altitude sickness.
For more severe forms of heart or lung disease and high blood pressure, patients should consult their physician before traveling to Denver or other places with high altitudes. Adequate oxygen levels at higher elevations like Mile High City can be a problem for some people with health issues; becoming short of breath is common. Those who are healthy, fit and younger are generally less prone to altitude sickness.
Although Denver, Colorado is famous for being the Mile High City, there are other cities in the world with even higher elevations. Potosi, Bolivia, in South America, is over two miles high. Other cities over a mile high are Lhasa, Tibet, and Lijiang, China.
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