The Highest Towns in the US
When you think of high-altitude living in the United States, your mind might go straight to mountain resorts or alpine cabins tucked into the Rockies. But dotted across the high country are real, working towns—places where people live, work, and raise families at elevations that would make your ears pop. These towns sit at dizzying heights, with some above 10,000 feet, making them the highest incorporated municipalities in the country.
From former mining camps transformed into artsy enclaves to still-active ski destinations that brush the clouds, the highest towns in the US offer more than just bragging rights. They boast unique histories, breathtaking landscapes, and a way of life shaped by altitude.
Here are the six highest towns in the United States—and what makes each one remarkable.
Alma, Colorado — 10,578 feet
Alma, Colorado welcome sign. Editorial credit: Davepark via Wikimedia Commons
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Population: ~275
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Best for: Solitude, peak-bagging, and true high-altitude living
Just 16 miles south of Breckenridge lies Alma, a small mountain town that sits even higher than Leadville at 10,578 feet. While it’s not a city by technical standards (its population falls under the city classification threshold), Alma is the highest incorporated town in North America.
Originally established as a gold mining settlement in the 1870s, Alma has maintained a fiercely local identity. With fewer than 300 residents, it offers a quiet, unpretentious lifestyle in the shadow of several 14,000-foot peaks, including Mount Lincoln and Quandary Peak.
The elevation comes with a cost—winters are long, and snow can fall as early as September—but for those who love the alpine environment, Alma is a one-of-a-kind mountain refuge.
Leadville, Colorado — 10,152 feet
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Population: ~2,600
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Best for: History buffs, altitude athletes, high-alpine adventure
Welcome to America’s highest incorporated city. Leadville, Colorado, proudly holds this title, sitting at a staggering 10,152 feet above sea level. Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, this historic mining town once rivaled Denver in population and wealth during the silver boom of the late 19th century.
Leadville’s legacy as a mining mecca is still visible in its well-preserved Victorian architecture and the National Mining Hall of Fame and Museum. But modern Leadville isn’t stuck in the past. It’s a vibrant community with a strong outdoor culture, hosting the famous Leadville Trail 100 ultramarathon and mountain bike race each year.
Despite its elevation, Leadville sees a surprising number of visitors year-round, many drawn by the views of Colorado’s two tallest peaks—Mount Elbert and Mount Massive—just outside of town.
Blue River, Colorado — 10,020 feet
A welcome sign for the town of Blue River, Colorado located along Colorado State Highway 9 at the southern entrance to the town. Editorial credit: Jeffrey Beall via Wikimedia Commons
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Population: ~900
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Best for: Nature lovers, second-home owners, access to hiking and skiing
Located just five miles south of Breckenridge along Highway 9, Blue River is a small residential town that often flies under the radar. Incorporated in 1964, the town sits at 10,020 feet and is primarily made up of mountain homes, many of which serve as vacation properties for those looking to escape Denver and the I-70 corridor.
Unlike Leadville and Alma, Blue River doesn’t have a defined downtown or a booming tourist economy. What it does offer is access—direct access to the Tenmile Range, White River National Forest, and the iconic Quandary Peak trailhead.
Blue River exemplifies a newer kind of high-altitude town—more suburban than historical—but its location at over 10,000 feet still earns it a spot among the highest communities in the country.
Fairplay, Colorado — 9,953 feet
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Population: ~800
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Best for: Historical reenactments, quirky festivals, central access to the Rockies
Just down the mountain from Alma lies Fairplay, the county seat of Park County and a hub for visitors traveling over Hoosier Pass. Sitting at 9,953 feet, Fairplay is both geographically and historically significant. It was founded in 1859 during the Colorado Gold Rush and quickly became one of the most important mining towns in South Park.
Fairplay leans into its Old West roots with an annual Burro Days festival and the South Park City Museum, a recreated 1880s mining town. And yes, this town did inspire the name of the fictional “South Park” in the animated television show.
Despite its nearly 10,000-foot elevation, Fairplay remains surprisingly accessible year-round thanks to its location along US Highway 285.
Dillon, Colorado — 9,111 feet
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Population: ~1,000
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Best for: Water sports at altitude, skiing nearby, concerts in the mountains
Dillon, Colorado, might not hit the 10,000-foot mark, but at 9,111 feet, it's still one of the highest towns in the United States—and it combines that height with incredible amenities. Located along the shores of Dillon Reservoir in Summit County, Dillon has a modern feel compared to its 19th-century neighbors.
Originally relocated in the 1960s to make way for the reservoir, Dillon is now a popular basecamp for those looking to explore Summit County’s ski resorts, bike paths, and lakeside recreation. The town also boasts one of the most scenic amphitheaters in the country, with views of the water and mountains as the backdrop for summer concerts.
Dillon blends modern infrastructure with alpine charm and ranks as one of the best places to enjoy high-elevation living with a more contemporary edge.
Frisco, Colorado — 9,097 feet
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Population: ~3,200
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Best for: Ski access, lake views, small-town charm
Tucked between Breckenridge and Copper Mountain, the town of Frisco is another high-altitude gem at 9,097 feet. Though it may be smaller than nearby resort towns, Frisco punches above its weight in terms of livability and adventure.
With a charming Main Street, a marina on Dillon Reservoir, and a Nordic center for winter fun, Frisco offers a well-rounded lifestyle in the heart of Summit County. It's also just minutes from four major ski resorts, making it a favorite among winter sports enthusiasts.
Frisco’s high elevation doesn't deter growth—in fact, it attracts it. Many see it as the best of both worlds: high enough for alpine beauty, but low enough for year-round accessibility.
Why Do People Choose to Live So High?
Living above 9,000 or 10,000 feet isn’t for everyone. The air is thin, winters are long, and even boiling water takes longer. So why do people choose to live in America’s highest towns?
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Scenic beauty: The views are unmatched, with many towns offering 360-degree mountain vistas.
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Outdoor access: These towns are ideal for hiking, skiing, and mountain biking.
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Tight-knit communities: With small populations, many high-altitude towns foster a strong sense of community.
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Health and wellness: Some believe that high-altitude living can improve cardiovascular health, though it’s not without challenges for those with respiratory issues.
Challenges of High-Altitude Living
It’s not all fresh air and sunshine. High-elevation towns deal with:
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Altitude sickness: Visitors and newcomers often feel the effects, ranging from headaches to nausea.
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Harsh weather: Snow can stick around for 8 months, and temperatures often drop below zero.
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Limited services: Smaller populations mean fewer amenities and sometimes difficult access to hospitals and stores.
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Cost of living: Some of these towns—especially near ski resorts—come with high real estate prices.
Yet for many, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks.
Elevation Comparison Chart
| Town | Elevation (ft) | Population | Notable Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alma | 10,578 | ~275 | Highest incorporated town in North America |
| Leadville | 10,152 | ~2,600 | Highest city in the U.S. |
| Blue River | 10,020 | ~900 | Residential access to major hiking routes |
| Fairplay | 9,953 | ~800 | Inspired the name of the TV show South Park |
| Dillon | 9,111 | ~1,000 | Lakeside town with a famous amphitheater |
| Frisco | 9,097 | ~3,200 | Mountain hub with year-round activities |
FAQ: Highest Towns in the US
What is the highest town in the United States?
Alma, Colorado, holds the title for the highest incorporated town in the US at 10,578 feet.
Is Leadville higher than Denver?
Yes, significantly. Denver sits at 5,280 feet, while Leadville is nearly double that at 10,152 feet.
Are there health concerns with living at high elevations?
Some people experience altitude sickness or have respiratory issues. It’s important to acclimate and consult a doctor if you have health concerns.
Do these towns get snow year-round?
While snowfall can occur for most of the year, especially in towns over 10,000 feet, summer still brings warm days and greenery.
Can tourists visit these towns year-round?
Yes, though snow can impact road access during winter storms. Summer and fall are the most popular times to visit.
Final Thoughts
The highest towns in the US aren't just defined by their altitudes—they're shaped by them. Life at 10,000 feet requires resilience, a love of the mountains, and often a four-wheel drive. But for those who call these towns home, the rewards are vast: unparalleled scenery, rich local history, and a daily closeness to nature that low-elevation cities can only dream of.
So whether you’re planning your next mountain getaway or fantasizing about alpine living, keep these sky-high towns on your radar—they’re the literal high points of American small-town life.
