Before you arrive
What visitors should know about Colorado altitude
A simple first-day strategy for adjusting to higher elevations and recognizing when a mountain plan needs to change.
Why the first day matters
Denver is already one mile above sea level, while Breckenridge, mountain passes and alpine attractions are considerably higher. A traveler who feels comfortable in Denver may still notice the difference after ascending into the mountains.
Plan an easy arrival day and avoid making a strenuous high-elevation activity the first item on the itinerary.
Common early symptoms
Headache, unusual fatigue, dizziness, nausea and poor sleep can occur after a rapid ascent. Symptoms vary, and physical fitness does not guarantee protection from altitude illness.
Do not use this guide to diagnose a medical condition. If symptoms are severe, include confusion or breathing difficulty at rest, or continue to worsen, descend and seek medical help.
Build a gradual itinerary
A gentler way to start is to spend the first night in Denver or Colorado Springs, then move to a mountain town. Leave your first mountain afternoon open for a walk, a meal and an early night instead of a demanding hike.
- Eat regular meals and drink water throughout the day.
- Wear sun protection; ultraviolet exposure increases with elevation.
- Tell a travel companion when you do not feel well.
- Turn around when conditions or symptoms make the plan unsafe.
Ask a professional when needed
Travelers with heart or lung conditions, pregnancy, previous severe altitude illness or other medical concerns should discuss high-elevation travel with a qualified clinician before the trip.