The United States is home to a vast range of landscapes and terrain, from towering mountain peaks to rolling hills, deep oceans to vast deserts. Depending on where you live, you may be accustomed to seeing a lot of elevation changes within a relatively short distance. However, one US state stands out from the rest when it comes to having the lowest highest elevation: Delaware.
What Makes Delaware Unique?
Delaware has the distinction of having the lowest highest elevation of any US state. The highest elevation point in the state is located at Ebright Azimuth in New Castle County and stands at a mere 345 feet (105 meters). This makes Delaware the only US state with an elevation lower than 400 feet.
What Does This Mean for Delaware Residents?
For those living in Delaware, having the lowest highest elevation in the United States means there are fewer obstacles when it comes to building and developing infrastructure. For example, roads, bridges, and other large construction projects don’t require as much engineering and planning because of the relatively flat landscape. Additionally, the state’s low elevation makes it easier for people to access and travel around the region, since there are fewer large hills or mountains to traverse.
What is the Lowest Point in Delaware?
Though it has the lowest highest elevation, Delaware also has the second-lowest lowest point in the US, at sea level. The lowest point in Delaware is located at the Atlantic Ocean near Fenwick Island. This means that those living in the state have easy access to the beach and all of the activities that come with it.
What Other US States Have Low Elevations?
Delaware isn’t the only state with a low highest elevation. Other states with relatively low highest points include Florida (345 feet/105 meters), Louisiana (524 feet/160 meters), and Rhode Island (812 feet/247 meters). While these states may not have the lowest highest elevation, they all still have relatively flat terrain that makes it easy to get around.
What Other Unique Facts are There About Delaware?
In addition to having the lowest highest elevation, Delaware is also home to the first state constitution, the first state university, and the oldest continuously operating courthouse in the United States. Additionally, it is the only US state without a national park or national forest.