When you plan a visit to Copper Mountain, you have to also plan for a different type of climate than you might normally be used to. Elevation on Copper Mountain ranges from 9,700 feet at the base to more than 12,300 feet at the peak. As you climb in elevation, oxygen levels drop and the air becomes much more dry. If you’re visiting from somewhere closer to sea level, this drier, less oxygenated climate can cause a variety of unpleasant symptoms. Luckily, there are easy ways to combat and prevent altitude-related problems while visiting Copper.
To help you easily acclimate to Copper Mountain and make the most out of your trip, we have compiled the best tips for high-altitude adjusting:
1. Drink Water – Eat Light
As tempting as it might be to start your trip off with some celebratory alcoholic beverages, we suggest you refrain for at least your first day. Alcohol consumption compounds high-altitude symptoms so it’s best to stay away until you’ve acclimated.
The dry air that comes with Copper Mountain’s high elevation can lead to dehydration as well. Water is the best choice to get your body hydrated but you can swap for low sugar drinks or seltzers without the alcohol. Finally, make sure you’re not overeating. High-fat foods and overconsumption can lead to digestive issues in high altitude.
2. Just Take It Easy
The Copper area comes jam-packed with fun things to do. The slopes and trails might sound like a lot of fun but if you’re struggling to adjust to the altitude, it is best to spend your first day taking in the sights and going easy.
At high altitude, less oxygen in the air means less oxygen for your body which can affect your muscle performance. You’ll find that you get tired more quickly at this altitude so take proper precautions. Check your equipment and have a map handy to plan out your trip. Stretch before you head out and avoid alcoholic drinks at lunchtime.
3. Sleep It Off
The reduced oxygen is already making you more tired so why not listen to your body and get some rest? Extra zzz’s during your vacation to Copper will help your body adjust. Overexertion combined with a lack of sleep can result in more severe and persistent altitude symptoms.
4. Don’t Forget the Sunscreen
On Copper Mountain, you’ll be much closer to the sun than you’re probably accustomed to plus the thin atmosphere doesn’t filter out the ultraviolet rays as well as it does in lower elevations. Make sure you’re wearing sunscreen, at least an SPF 30, and reapplying often.
Did you know your eyes can also get sunburn too? Make sure you wear sunglasses or goggles on the ski slopes with adequate UV protection. In the winter, the sun reflects off of the snow so you’ll need to protect your eyes year-round.
5. Utilize Local Oxygen Services
If you are following all the above tips and tricks above and still having issues, have a medical condition, or simply want to stay as oxygenated as possible during your Copper Mountain trip, Oxygen Delivers provides excellent service. They can deliver a variety of oxygen products, including concentrators, cylinders, and bottles, right to your vacation rental. You can even arrange delivery to be waiting upon arrival when staying at a Copper Vacation rental.
Find out all that Copper Mountain has to offer when you book a vacation rental.
When you're ready to start exploring, book your visit to Copper Mountain and see what makes high altitude vacations so much fun. From hiking and bike trails to barreling down a ski slope, Copper Mountain has everything you could need with the added bonus of crisp mountain air. Book a condo with stunning mountain views or a lodge with your very own hot tub to relax after a long day of excitement. Start planning your next adventure today!