How To Prevent Altitude Sickness - Visit Colorado Springs

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Updated: March 29, 2024

High Altitude Effects & Tips

High altitude has its benefits. Our bodies use more calories and burn more fat. But, for lowland travelers who are new to our area, altitude can produce some unusual high altitude effects such as dizziness, nausea and headaches. We've put together some tips for avoiding altitude sickness in Colorado Springs.

High Altitude Effects Preventative Tips

Colorado Springs and the surrounding region is home to breathtaking landscapes and exhilarating outdoor adventures at various high altitudes. Colorado Springs climbs to an altitude of 6,035 feet, while Manitou Springs, just five miles to the west of Colorado Springs, is at 6,320 feet. Further west, the towns of Victor and Cripple Creek are over 9,500 feet. The summit of Pikes Peak towers above them all at 14,115 feet. As you explore it's essential to be mindful of the effects of high elevation and take proactive measures to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Below you will find some helpful high altitude tips to help you acclimate to our elevation.

High Altitude Effects

Our bodies typically take 24-36 hours to adjust to a new altitude. During your visit to Colorado Spring watch out for some of these common signs of high altitude sickness:

  • Dizziness
  • Exhaustion
  • Headaches
  • Nausea
  • Trouble sleeping

If you experience changes in your vision, shortness of breath, chest tightness or pain, clumsiness, confusion, or slurred speech, visit a doctor immediately.

A group walks along a dirt trail overlooking a lake with a mountain in the distance

Top 11 High Altitude Tips

To enjoy your visit here in Colorado Springs, here are the top 11 high altitude tips to keep in mind to give your body time to adjust to the altitude and prevent altitude sickness:

1. Stay below 7,000 feet the first day

The city of Colorado Springs is 6,035 feet above sea level, and some of our most celebrated natural attractions are even higher — like Pikes Peak, at an impressive 14,115 feet above sea level.

2. Give your body time to adjust

To give your body time to adjust to the higher elevation, we recommend spending your first day — or as long as you need — exploring the dozens of attractions at lower altitudes. Explore local communities, visit a museum, or spend time savoring Colorado Springs' culinary scene.

3. Avoid strenuous exercise on the first day

There are no shortage of outdoor adventures to embark on in Colorado Springs, including numerous trails that have Consider saving the 2,768 steps of the Manitou Incline for when you're adjusted to the altitude.

4. Limit alcohol and caffeinated beverage intake

Alcohol binds oxygen and water and robs your body of these two important nutrients. It's also recommended to avoid coffee, tea, and other caffeinated beverages at least one day prior to traveling to higher altitudes.

5. Drink more water and replenish electrolytes

Stay hydrated! At higher altitudes the air is drier which will dehydrate you much more quickly. A good rule of thumb to follow: The higher up you go, the more water you should drink. In fact, drinking twice your normal water intake is suggested at higher altitudes. To replenish electrolytes you can eat foods containing high amounts of potassium– think avocados, bananas and broccoli –or drink an electrolyte infused beverage.

6. Eat more calories

One of the benefits of being at a higher altitude is that your body will naturally burn more calories because it is working harder to get enough oxygen to keep your body working. Increase your calorie intake to keep your body healthy and energized. Focus on nutrient-dense foods such as lean proteins, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.

7. Use sun protection

The atmosphere is thinner at higher elevations, providing you less protection from the sun's UV rays. To protect yourself from sunburn follow these tips year-round: apply SPF to any exposed skin, including a lip balm with SPF in it, and wear sunglasses and sun-protective clothing.

8. Bring layers

Another thing to prepare for with the thinner atmosphere is changing temperatures. It is common for people to feel warmer during the day than the actual temperature and chilly after sunset. Bring multiple layers with you so you can maintain a comfortable body temperature throughout the day.

9. Always travel with a companion

Everyone experiences altitude changes differently, so we recommend always bringing a family member, friend or companion with you, especially as you begin to embark on more intense adventures. If someone begins to experience severe coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath or chest pain, get them to a lower altitude as quickly as possible.

10. Check with your doctor

Be sure to consult with your doctor first before exerting yourself at higher altitudes. The effects of some drugs such as tranquilizers can be greatly increased at higher altitudes. If you are worried about altitude sickness, or you've experience it before, you can talk to your doctor about trying a prescription of acetazolamide (Diamox) and other potential treatments.

11. Rest and recover

Just like giving your body time to adjust upon arriving, it's also recommended to allow your body to recover, especially after any high energy, high altitude activities. Spend a few extra moments relaxing at your hotel, pamper yourself at one of our spas and wellness centers, or expedite the recovery process with concentrated vitamin and electrolyte therapy — and a session in an infrared sauna — at Elevation Hydration.

Bonus Tip

If baking, follow high-altitude instructions

High altitudes impact rising rates and other variables. Baked goods also dry out and become stale more quickly at higher altitudes, so consider keeping your cakes, cookies and other items sealed in airtight containers to preserve them longer.

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