Keystone Altitude: Prevent Altitude Sickness In Colorado

Keystone, Colorado is a beautiful mountain destination that attracts visitors from all over the world. However, the high altitude of Keystone can pose a challenge to those who are not used to it. Altitude sickness is a common issue faced by many visitors to Keystone, and it can ruin your trip if you are not prepared for it. In this article, we will discuss Keystone altitude and how to prevent altitude sickness when visiting Keystone.

Keystone altitude

Keystone sits at an elevation of 9,280 feet (2,829 meters) above sea level. The high altitude means that the air pressure and oxygen levels are lower than what most people are used to at sea level. As a result, visitors may experience shortness of breath, headaches, nausea, and fatigue due to the reduced amount of oxygen in their bloodstream.

What is the altitude at Keystone Base?

The altitude at Keystone Base is approximately 9,280 feet (2,829 meters) above sea level.

What is the elevation of the top of the Keystone gondola?

The top of the Keystone gondola is at an elevation of 11,640 feet (3,548 meters) above sea level.

What is the highest point in Keystone Colorado?

The highest point in Keystone Colorado is the summit of Dercum Mountain, which has an elevation of 12,408 feet (3,782 meters).

How high is Keystone River Run?

Keystone River Run takes riders from River Run Village at 9,280 feet of elevation to the top of Dercum Mountain at 11,640 feet above sea level.

Can you get altitude sickness in Keystone?

Yes, it is possible to get altitude sickness in Keystone as the base elevation of Keystone Resort is 9,280 feet (2,829 meters) above sea level, and some of the highest points can reach up to 12,408 feet (3,782 meters). Altitude sickness can affect anyone regardless of age or fitness level. It can be prevented by acclimating slowly, drinking plenty of water, avoiding alcohol and caffeine, and taking medication if necessary. It is important to recognize the effects of altitude sickness, such as headache, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, and shortness of breath. Seek medical attention if symptoms worsen.

Is altitude sickness common in Keystone Colorado?

Yes, altitude sickness is common in Keystone and affects up to 50% of visitors to the area. This is due to Keystone’s high altitude of around 9,000 feet above sea level. Altitude sickness, also called Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), can cause symptoms such as headaches, nausea, and fatigue in some individuals who are not acclimated to the elevation.

Keystone altitude sickness symptoms

The symptoms of altitude sickness at Keystone, which is located at a high elevation of around 9,280 feet above sea level, can include headache, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, dizziness or lightheadedness, shortness of breath, loss of appetite, and difficulty sleeping. In severe cases, altitude sickness can cause confusion, difficulty walking, and high altitude pulmonary edema. It is important to acclimatize slowly by taking it easy on the first day or two upon arrival at high elevation destinations like Keystone and drinking plenty of water to prevent altitude sickness.

How to prevent altitude sickness in Keystone

1. Acclimatize before heading up: Taking time to acclimate before heading up into the mountains is essential. If possible, plan on spending one or two days at a lower elevation before heading up to Keystone.

2. Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water is crucial when visiting Keystone, as the dry air can dehydrate you quickly. Make sure you drink plenty of fluids throughout your trip to maintain hydration.

3. Avoid alcohol and caffeine: Alcohol and caffeine can exacerbate altitude sickness symptoms by dehydrating you further.

4. Take it easy: Allow yourself some time to relax when you first arrive in Keystone until your body has had time to adjust fully.

5. Eat well: Eating healthy meals with plenty of nutrients can help your body adjust to higher the altitude.

6. Consider medication: Some medications, like acetazolamide (Diamox), can help prevent altitude sickness symptoms but should only be taken under medical supervision.

7. Be aware of symptoms: Symptoms of altitude sickness include headache, nausea/vomiting, dizziness/loss of balance, fatigue, and shortness of breath. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s essential to rest and hydrate until they subside.

8. Keystone oxygen rental: Besides oxygen bars, several oxygen rental companies in town rent oxygen tanks and oxygen concentrators that can help you rest more easily at night.

At what elevation does altitude sickness start?

Altitude sickness can start at elevations above 8,000 feet (2,438 meters), but it is more common above 12,000 feet (3,658 meters). However, susceptibility to altitude sickness varies from person to person and can even occur at lower elevations for some individuals.

Where is Keystone Ski Resort?

Keystone Ski Resort is located in Summit County, Colorado, USA. The ski runs are spread over three peaks: Dercum Mountain, North Peak, and the Outback.

Is Keystone Resort good for beginners?

Yes, Keystone Ski Resort is a great destination for beginners. The resort has a variety of beginner-friendly runs. This includes designated learning areas with gentle slopes and easy lifts, as well as ski and snowboard lessons for all ages and abilities. Additionally, the resort offers a range of family-friendly activities, such as ice skating and tubing, making it an excellent choice for families with children. However, it is important to note that Keystone’s base elevation is above 9,000 feet which may cause altitude sickness in some individuals if they do not properly acclimatize themselves to the high altitude environment.

Is Keystone a difficult mountain?

Keystone Resort has a variety of terrains suitable for skiers and snowboarders of all levels, from beginner to advanced. The resort has 3,148 acres of skiable terrain with 20 lifts and over 128 trails. The altitude at Keystone can cause altitude sickness in some people, so it’s essential to stay hydrated and acclimate properly before skiing or snowboarding.

Keystone trail map

You can find a Keystone trail map on the Keystone Resort website or by visiting the resort’s information center in Colorado. You may also be able to obtain a physical copy of the map at the resort’s ticket office or rental shops. Additionally, many third-party websites and apps may have digital versions of the Keystone trail map available for download or viewing.

Keystone night skiing

Keystone has night skiing available on select days throughout the winter season.

Is Keystone higher than Breckenridge?

No, Breckenridge has a higher elevation than Keystone. Breckenridge sits at an elevation of 9,600 feet (2,926 meters), while Keystone has an elevation of 9,280 feet (2,829 meters).

Conclusion

Keystone is a beautiful destination with plenty of outdoor activities and breathtaking views. However, visitors must take steps to prevent altitude sickness when visiting. By acclimatizing before heading up, staying hydrated, avoiding alcohol/caffeine, taking it easy, eating well, considering medication if necessary, and being aware of symptoms – visitors can enjoy their Keystone vacation without worrying about altitude sickness ruining their trip.