Saturday, September 26, 2026

Question: How many different steps on the Colorado State Capitol’s west staircase have been marked as exactly one mile above sea level?

Answer: Four. In 1909, the words “One Mile Above Sea Level” were carved into the 15th step of the Capitol. In 1969, a survey by CSU students determined that the 18th step held the distinction. In 2003, Gov. Bill Owens dedicated the 13th step as the mile-high marker. Then, this summer a NOAA survey determined it was actually the 17th step that holds the honor. But for how long?