When I visited Cripple Creek for the first time last year my hotel was at the top of the hill. Of course I wanted to hit all of the casinos so I just started there and hit every one on the way down. Doesn't sound like much but when you are already at something like 10,000 feet above sea level the air is REALLY thin - especially if you have asthma. That walk back up the hill (mountain!) almost did me in. If you ever do it be sure to follow the locals advice and stay hydrated because if you don't you quickly get a bad headache. Never a problem for me since there is always a beer or mixed drink nearby.