mile-high marker
Coverage of mile-high marker in the Nexus archive.
- History repeats itself: Mile high mark at the Colorado State Capitol to move for a fourth time
The mile-high marker at the Colorado State Capitol is moving for a fourth time due to improved GPS technology enabling more precise elevation measurements. NOAA's National Geodetic Survey, led by physicist Derek van Westrum, conducted research over 15 years to resurvey the 5,280-foot benchmark. Visitors and tour guides at the Capitol have historically engaged with the iconic marker, which remains a popular landmark despite its relocations.
- Fourth time’s the charm for Denver’s mile-high marker
Denver's mile-high marker has been placed on the 17th step of the State Capitol, joining three previous markers from 1909, 1969, and 2003. Researchers delayed the official installation until next year and emphasized improved measurement technology as the reason for multiple markers. Accurate vertical mile data is critical for systems like floodplain maps and nautical charts.