Pikes Peak is America's Mountain.
Tips for Enjoying Life at 6,035'
Updated: November 1, 2023
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.
Colorado Springs climbs to an altitude of 6,035 feet. Manitou Springs, just five miles to the west of Colorado Springs, is 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.
Below you will find some helpful high altitude tips to help you acclimate to our elevation.
Top 9 High Altitude Tips
To enjoy your visit here in Colorado Springs, here are the top 9 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
Stay hydrated! The air is drier and your body will dehydrate 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.
6. 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.
7. 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.
8. 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.
9. 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.
Reach New Heights
Often referred to as simply "The Incline," this tourist cable car track turned heart-pounding workout is known for its rapid elevation gain, 2,768-step hiking trail, and sweeping views of Manitou Springs.
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