why is it called mile high stadium

It is called Mile High Stadium because the stadium sits in Denver, Colorado, which is famously known as the “Mile High City” due to its elevation of about 5,280 feet—exactly one mile above sea level. The name highlights both the city’s geography and the local pride in playing sports at high altitude.

Quick Scoop

• The original stadium on the site opened in 1948 as Bears Stadium for minor league baseball.

• In 1968, it was officially renamed Mile High Stadium to showcase Denver’s one-mile elevation.

• The current venue’s corporate names (Invesco Field, Sports Authority Field, Empower Field) have changed, but fans pushed to keep “at Mile High” to preserve the legacy.

Why “Mile High” Matters

• Denver’s elevation gives games a distinctive altitude factor, affecting player endurance, ball flight, and kicking distance.

• The phrase “Mile High” has become a symbol of Broncos culture, from the “Mile High crowd” reputation to traditions like the “Mile High Salute.”

Bit Of Recent / Trending Context

• The current name is Empower Field at Mile High, reflecting a sponsorship deal while still retaining the historic “Mile High” tag due to fan and local pressure.

• Local media and even some legislators have argued at times that “Mile High” should legally remain in the name because of taxpayer investment and the brand’s local importance.

In short, it’s called Mile High Stadium as a proud nod to Denver’s one‑mile elevation and the high‑altitude identity that’s become central to the Broncos’ home‑field mystique.

TL;DR: It’s named Mile High Stadium because the venue is in Denver, which sits one mile (5,280 feet) above sea level, and the name stuck as a point of local pride and sports tradition.

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