No. Contrary to popular belief, Denver is not located in the mountains; it is near them. Denver is built on high plains and is one of the flattest of all American cities.
Q: What is Denver's climate?
Denver is a high desert. Humidity is low, and there is lots of sunshine--and without as much atmosphere above you, the sun is strong!
There are often largish temperature swings between morning and evening, hence the
ubiquitous advice to dress in layers!
Q: Is Denver really a mile high?
Absolutely! Denver has always been known as the Mile High City. In fact, the 15th step of the state capitol is exactly 5,280 feet - one mile high. If you visit Coors Field baseball stadium while in Denver, be sure to sit in the purple seats, where you'll view the game at a mile high.
Q: Are there any precautions I should take while being at such a high altitude?
Some people experience a little shortness of breath in Denver, but generally you have to be much higher (9,000 feet or 2,743 meters above sea level) to feel this effect. Even when felt, the body adjusts after a day or two. Other tips for high altitude include: Use sunscreen with an SPF rating of at least 15; Drink more liquids than you would at sea level; Drink less alcohol and consume less rich foods; and, Be prepared for the most beautiful technicolor sunsets. The high altitude and spectacular natural location give Denver some of the most gorgeous sunsets on Earth.