Living where the air is thin and the views stretch forever, Colorado’s highest communities offer a glimpse into a world where altitude defines daily life. From former mining boomtowns to modern ski havens, these settlements perched high in the Rockies represent some of America’s most extraordinary places to visit—or call home.
The Elevation Effect: How Colorado Reaches for the Sky
When most Americans think of high living, Denver’s “Mile High” status at 5,280 feet often comes to mind. But venture into Colorado’s mountains, and you’ll discover communities that make Denver look like lowland territory. These mountain towns exist in a realm where oxygen is precious, weather is unpredictable, and sunscreen is absolutely essential.
Before we climb our way through Colorado’s highest towns, let’s clear up a common misconception: elevation measures height above sea level (what towns have), while altitude refers to height above the earth’s surface (what airplanes maintain). Denver doesn’t have an altitude of 5,280 feet—it has an elevation.
Colorado’s Elevation at a Glance:
High Points:
- Mount Elbert stands tallest at 14,440 feet (4,401 meters)
- Alma reigns as Colorado’s highest town at 10,578 feet (3,224 meters)
- Leadville claims the title of America’s highest incorporated city at 10,152 feet (3,094 meters)
Low Points:
- The Arikaree River marks Colorado’s lowest point at 3,317 feet (1,011 meters)
- Holly sits as the state’s lowest town at 3,392 feet (1,034 meters)
- Wray registers as the lowest city at 3,566 feet (1,087 meters)
The Thin Air Society: Colorado’s 9,000+ Foot Communities
When you’re this high up, temperature drops roughly 3.3°F for every 1,000-foot climb. Early mining settlements once existed even higher—like Animas Forks at over 11,000 feet—but harsh conditions eventually transformed them into ghost towns. Today’s high-elevation residents have adapted to life where winter dominates and summer feels fleeting.
Let’s journey through Colorado’s highest communities, each with its unique character and challenges:
The 10,000+ Foot Club: Truly Rarified Air
1. Alma (10,578 ft)
Population: 296 (2020)
While often overlooked in favor of more famous Leadville, Alma holds the crown as America’s highest incorporated municipality with year-round residents. This northern Park County town sits just 30 minutes south of Breckenridge via the scenic Hoosier Pass. Beyond its compact downtown with shops and eateries, Alma boasts another high-altitude distinction: America’s highest marijuana dispensary.
2. Leadville (10,152 ft)
Population: 2,633 (2020)
The legendary Leadville wears its “highest incorporated city in America” badge proudly. This former silver mining powerhouse welcomes visitors with its remarkably preserved Victorian-era downtown. From its lofty perch, residents enjoy views of Colorado’s two tallest peaks—Mount Elbert and Mount Massive. Though its mining heyday has passed, Leadville thrives as a historic destination and gateway to Ski Cooper, where light, dry powder awaits winter enthusiasts.
3. Blue River (10,036 ft)
Population: 877 (2020)
Just barely crossing the 10,000-foot threshold, this primarily residential community sits five miles south of bustling Breckenridge. Many homes here serve as vacation retreats, though the full-time population continues growing. Blue River marks the northern approach to Hoosier Pass and, appropriately enough, stands where its namesake river begins its journey.
The 9,500+ Foot Club: Mountain Town Majesty
4. Fairplay (9,953 ft)
Population: 724 (2020)
South Park fans recognize the name, but real-life Fairplay offers more than cartoon inspiration. As the county seat and hub of the sprawling South Park basin, this friendly mountain town provides essential services for surrounding communities. History buffs appreciate its restored 1880s mining camp at South Park City Museum, while modern amenities include a dog park and local brewery.
5. Platoro (9,870 ft)
Population: Virtually no year-round residents
Perhaps Colorado’s most isolated community, Platoro sits a full two-hour drive from any significant town in any direction. This former mining camp transforms into a summer-only destination surrounded by Rio Grande National Forest wilderness. Visitors come for Platoro Reservoir fishing, cabin stays, and nearby camping opportunities. By October, winter begins reclaiming this remote outpost until the following spring.
6. Copper Mountain (9,712 ft)
Population: 640 (2020)
Unlike traditional towns, Copper Mountain exists primarily as a resort destination with three base villages. What it lacks in historic character, it compensates for with outstanding skiing and growing summer attractions like its Rocky Mountain Coaster. Less commercialized than other Summit County hotspots, Copper offers a slightly more relaxed mountain experience.
7. Victor (9,708 ft)
Population: 379 (2020)
Often overshadowed by nearby Cripple Creek, Victor preserves its mining heritage without the gambling scene that transformed its neighbor. Throughout town, historic structures and mining relics tell stories of the gold rush era. Ghost hunters take note: local hotels reportedly harbor paranormal activity, adding another dimension to Victor’s mountain-town charm.
8. Twin Lakes (9,700 ft)
Population: 204 (2020)
This tiny village adjacent to its namesake alpine lakes sits roughly halfway between Leadville and Buena Vista. During summer, when Independence Pass opens, Twin Lakes sees steady traffic from travelers heading toward Aspen. When winter closes the pass, this small community returns to quiet mountain life at nearly 10,000 feet.
9. Ophir (9,695 ft)
Population: 197 (2020)
Hidden thirteen miles south of Telluride, Ophir remains so secluded you’ll miss it unless specifically seeking it out. Located two miles east of Highway 145 via Ophir Road, this small settlement of under 200 residents cherishes its remote location surrounded by spectacular San Juan Mountain scenery.
10. Breckenridge (9,600 ft)
Population: 5,078 (2020)
“Breck” stands as Colorado’s most populous high-elevation town and easily its most visited settlement above 9,000 feet. While winter brings powder-seeking skiers, summer fills its historic downtown with shoppers, diners, and outdoor enthusiasts. With well-preserved Victorian architecture lining multiple blocks, Breckenridge successfully balances historic charm with modern mountain resort amenities.
The 9,000+ Foot Club: High-Country Living
11. Mountain Village (9,545 ft)
Population: 1,264 (2020)
While Telluride (8,750 ft) gets most of the attention, its neighboring Mountain Village actually sits significantly higher. This purpose-built resort community connects to downtown Telluride via a free gondola operating year-round. More residential and less commercial than Telluride proper, Mountain Village offers slopeside accommodations with spectacular San Juan Mountain panoramas.
12. Monarch (9,544 ft)
Population: Few permanent residents
Twenty minutes west of Salida, this small settlement along Monarch Pass consists primarily of vacation properties and limited permanent housing. Located near Monarch Mountain ski area, residents endure some of Colorado’s heaviest annual snowfall. The unincorporated community shares postal services with nearby Salida.
13. Cripple Creek (9,494 ft)
Population: 1,155 (2020)
Once a gold-mining boomtown, Cripple Creek reinvented itself as a gambling destination when Colorado legalized limited stakes gaming in 1991. Historic buildings along Bennett Avenue now house casinos offering everything from penny slots to poker tables. Despite modern gaming attractions, Cripple Creek maintains connections to its mining past through museums and preserved historic sites.
14. Silverton (9,318 ft)
Population: 622 (2020)
Perhaps Colorado’s most authentically preserved mining town, Silverton sits isolated in a high mountain valley surrounded by 13,000+ foot peaks. While home to North America’s most extreme lift-served skiing at Silverton Mountain, winter actually brings quiet to this remote outpost. Summer attracts visitors riding the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad or driving the spectacular Million Dollar Highway from Ouray.
15. Divide (9,165 ft)
Population: 143 (2020)
Forty minutes west of Colorado Springs atop Ute Pass, Divide functions primarily as a waypoint rather than a destination. This small community marks the turnoff to Cripple Creek and serves travelers continuing west on Highway 24 toward South Park. With minimal commercial development, Divide epitomizes rural mountain living.
16. Keystone (9,173 ft)
Population: 1,369 (2020)
Though just off Interstate 70, Keystone maintains a secluded feel compared to other Summit County destinations. Its resort village features restaurants, shops and accommodations surrounding Keystone Lake—frozen for ice skating in winter and perfect for kayaking in summer. The surrounding mountains offer some of Colorado’s best skiing, including night operations on select trails.
17. Dillon (9,111 ft)
Population: 1,064 (2020)
Situated along the eastern shore of its namesake reservoir, modern Dillon actually represents a relocated town—the original settlement now rests beneath the reservoir’s waters. Today’s Dillon offers lakeside amenities including a popular marina where summer boaters enjoy Colorado’s “inland ocean” surrounded by mountain vistas.
18. Frisco (9,097 ft)
Population: 2,913 (2020)
Self-proclaimed “Main Street of the Rockies,” Frisco combines historic charm with strategic location near major Summit County attractions. Its bustling downtown features restaurants, shops and services catering to both visitors and a substantial year-round population. Frisco’s marina on Dillon Reservoir’s western shore provides water recreation opportunities during warmer months.
19. Winter Park (9,052 ft)
Population: 1,033 (2020)
Just 90 minutes from Denver via Berthoud Pass, Winter Park combines accessibility with authentic mountain character. Its namesake resort offers family-friendly skiing in winter and transforms into an adventure park during summer months. Unlike some purpose-built resort communities, Winter Park developed organically alongside its ski area, giving the town distinctive Colorado character.
20. Silverthorne (9,035 ft)
-6A7FD46A-CC5D-4755-9DB40CDA0122F629.jpg)
Population: 4,402 (2020)
Strategically positioned where Interstate 70 meets Highway 9, Silverthorne serves as Summit County’s primary service center and shopping destination. Located immediately below Dillon Dam, the town offers convenient access to surrounding communities and recreation areas. Its central location makes Silverthorne an ideal base for exploring all Summit County has to offer.
21. Granite (9,012 ft)
Population: 116 (2010)
Just barely qualifying for our list, this tiny unincorporated community between Leadville and Buena Vista consists primarily of scattered homes with minimal commercial presence. Nearby Clear Creek Reservoir attracts fishermen, while the Arkansas River flows past on its journey toward the plains. Despite limited amenities, Granite provides affordable mountain living in a historic setting.
The High-Altitude Experience
Living at elevation transforms ordinary activities. Visitors often notice:
- Cooking takes longer as water boils at lower temperatures
- Alcohol affects the body more intensely
- Sunburn happens faster with less atmospheric protection
- Winter can stretch from October through May
- Breathing requires adjustment, especially during physical activity
Yet these communities continue to attract both visitors and permanent residents seeking extraordinary mountain experiences. Whether you’re planning a vacation or considering mountain living, Colorado’s highest towns offer unique glimpses into life where the clouds are neighbors and the stars feel close enough to touch.
While our list focused on communities above 9,000 feet, many other beloved mountain towns—like Crested Butte (8,909 ft) and Telluride (8,750 ft)—sit just below this threshold but offer equally remarkable high-country experiences.
Next time the summer heat has you seeking escape, remember these sky-high havens where temperatures remain moderate even in July and August, and where life unfolds daily against some of America’s most spectacular backdrops.
