Denver (Colorado) sits at an impressive elevation of 5,280 feet above sea level.
If you ascend any higher – especially the nearby mountains – altitude sickness can become a serious concern. So, what should you take, and how do you prepare?
This article will cover the 8 basics – so you can travel to the Mile High City and surrounding resort towns, without major risk of headaches, nausea, dizziness, fatigue and more.
1) Prepare for Acclimatization
Acclimatization is the process of allowing your body to slowly get used to the lower oxygen levels at high altitudes. It’s a crucial step to prevent altitude sickness.
Planning for a gradual ascent to higher elevations over several days can give your body the time it needs to adjust. For those heading straight to Denver, consider taking it easy for the first few days. Limit physical activity and give your body a chance to adapt to the elevation before engaging in more strenuous activities.
Also, be aware of popular city & mountain peak heights in Colorado, which include:
- Leadville – 10,152 feet at base (11,500 at peak)
- Copper Mountain – 9,712 feet at base (12,441 at peak)
- Breckenridge – 9,600 feet at base (12,998 at peak)
- Keystone – 9,280 feet at base (12,408 at peak)
- Aspen – 7,908 feet at base (11,675 at peak)
- Telluride – 8,750 feet at base (14,000 at peak)
- Steamboat Springs – 6,732 feet at base (10,568 at peak)
- Crested Butte – 8,909 feet at base (12,168 at peak)
- Durango – 6,512 feet at base (8,500 at peak)
If you have a history of altitude sickness, or are unsure of how high altitudes might affect you, make sure to prepare ahead of time – as we’ll outline below.
2) Altitude Sickness Medication
Diamox (Acetazolamide) is a prescription medication widely recommended to prevent and reduce the symptoms of altitude sickness, which can occur when ascending too quickly to higher elevations. It’s often considered a traveler favorite because of its proven ability to make acclimatization faster, easier, and safer.
Diamox works by stimulating your body’s natural breathing response to lower oxygen levels. At higher altitudes, the air contains less oxygen, and your body needs time to adapt by breathing more rapidly and adjusting the balance of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood. Diamox gently accelerates this process by increasing the amount of bicarbonate excreted by your kidneys, which slightly acidifies your blood. This change signals your body to breathe deeper and more frequently, improving oxygen delivery to tissues and helping you acclimate more quickly.
By “tricking” your body into adapting faster, Diamox can significantly reduce or prevent the common symptoms of altitude sickness: such as headache, fatigue, dizziness, shortness of breath, and nausea. For example, if you’re traveling to Denver (5,280 ft) or planning adventures in nearby higher-elevation areas like Breckenridge or Aspen, taking Diamox before your trip can help your body adjust more comfortably to the thinner air and lower oxygen levels.
This proactive approach doesn’t just ease discomfort, but it can help maintain your energy, focus, and enjoyment throughout your travels, allowing you to make the most of your high-altitude experience without interruption.
- This medication is typically started 24 to 48 hours before you ascend to a high elevation, and
- It’s then continued for at least 48 hours after you’ve reached your highest point.
- As with any medication, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider to ensure it’s safe for you, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or are taking other medications.
3) Hydration Strategies to Avoid Elevation Sickness
Staying hydrated is more important than usual when you’re at high elevations, like Denver. The dry air and lower oxygen levels can lead to quicker dehydration, which in turn can exacerbate symptoms of altitude sickness.
Dehydration not only contributes to fatigue and headache but can also worsen or mimic symptoms of altitude sickness, making it harder to tell whether you’re dehydrated or experiencing mild AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness). Maintaining adequate hydration helps your blood deliver oxygen more efficiently and supports your kidneys, which play a key role in acclimatization and in managing the effects of medications such as Diamox (Acetazolamide).
Aim to drink at least 2-3 liters of water daily, starting a few days before your trip and continuing throughout your stay. Avoid or limit drinks that can dehydrate you, like alcohol and caffeine, especially during your first few days at high altitude. Keeping a water bottle with you at all times can serve as a constant reminder to drink water regularly.
4) Balanced Diet + Nutrition Should Not Be Ignored
Your diet can also play a role in how well you adjust to high altitudes. Foods rich in potassium can help mitigate some symptoms of altitude sickness, such as:
- Bananas
- Oranges
- Leafy greens
Complex carbohydrates, found in whole grains and pasta, provide steady energy and are easier for your body to digest, which is important since digestion can be slower at high altitudes.
Try to eat smaller, more frequent meals to maintain energy levels and aid in acclimatization. Avoid heavy, fatty foods that can make you feel sluggish and more susceptible to altitude sickness symptoms.
5) Know How to Identify + Respond to Altitude Sickness Symptoms
Recognizing the early signs of altitude sickness is essential for staying safe and preventing complications during high-altitude travel. Symptoms often begin within the first 6–24 hours after ascent and can range from mild to severe. Early symptoms may include headache, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, loss of appetite, shortness of breath, and difficulty sleeping. Some travelers also report a sensation similar to a hangover — sluggishness, brain fog, and mild swelling in the hands, feet, or face.
If you or someone in your group starts to experience these symptoms, it’s important to act quickly. The first and most effective response is to stop ascending and rest, allowing your body time to acclimate. If possible, descend to a lower elevation by even a few hundred feet — this can significantly reduce discomfort and help symptoms resolve faster. Increasing fluid intake, avoiding alcohol and heavy exertion, and staying warm can also help your body recover.
If symptoms persist beyond 24–48 hours, worsen with continued ascent, or include more severe signs such as confusion, severe shortness of breath at rest, or difficulty walking, seek medical care immediately. These may indicate High-Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) or High-Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE), both of which require urgent treatment.
Remember, altitude sickness can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or physical fitness level. Even experienced climbers and athletes are not immune. Paying attention to early warning signs, pacing your ascent, and preparing with preventive medications such as Diamox (Acetazolamide) can help you stay healthy and make your high-altitude adventure safer and more enjoyable.
6) Create a Gradual Acclimatization Schedule for Denver Visitors
For those visiting Denver and planning to explore higher elevations, creating a gradual acclimatization schedule can be beneficial.
- Start by spending a few days in Denver itself to allow your body to adjust to the Mile High City’s altitude.
- Then, if you plan to hike or visit areas at higher elevations, do so incrementally.
- For example, you might visit locations at 6,000 to 7,000 feet before tackling activities above 8,000 feet.
This gradual approach helps reduce the risk of altitude sickness and makes your adjustment to higher elevations smoother.
7) Adjust Your Exercise Routine
When visiting Denver or other high-altitude destinations, it’s important to modify your physical activity to account for the lower oxygen levels and thinner air. At elevations above 5,000 feet, the body receives less oxygen with each breath, meaning the same workout that feels easy at sea level can feel significantly harder. Even experienced athletes may find their endurance reduced until their body fully acclimates.
Start any exercise routine gradually, giving your body time to adapt to the new environment. Begin with light to moderate activities such as walking, yoga, or gentle hiking for the first few days. This approach helps you build tolerance and allows your cardiovascular and respiratory systems to adjust safely. Avoid pushing yourself into high-intensity exercise too soon, as this can increase your risk of dehydration, fatigue, or altitude-related illness.
Listen closely to your body. If you experience unusual shortness of breath, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, or exhaustion, stop immediately and rest. Remember that recovery may take longer at higher elevations, so spacing out activities and incorporating rest days is key.
Once you begin to feel more comfortable, typically after two to three days, you can gradually increase your workout intensity. Staying hydrated, maintaining a balanced diet, and avoiding alcohol during your initial acclimatization period can all improve your performance and reduce the likelihood of altitude-related symptoms.
By pacing yourself and respecting your body’s limits, you’ll not only adapt faster but also enjoy a safer, more energizing experience during your time at elevation.
8) Create a Packing List of Essentials for a Healthy Denver Visit
Preparing for a trip to Denver means packing with altitude in mind. Here’s a checklist to ensure you have a healthy visit:
- Water bottle: Staying hydrated is key, so bring a durable water bottle to refill throughout your trip.
- Altitude sickness medication: If you’re planning to use Diamox, bring it along, but remember to start taking it according to your doctor’s instructions, which may include before you arrive.
- Moisturizer and lip balm: Denver’s air can be dry, so these will help keep your skin and lips hydrated.
- Layered clothing: Weather can change rapidly, so layers will help you adjust to varying temperatures.
- First-aid kit: Include basic supplies, along with any personal medications.
- Snacks: High-energy, nutritious snacks can help maintain your energy levels while you acclimate.
By following these guidelines and preparing properly, you can enjoy all the beauty and adventure Denver has to offer – while minimizing the risk of altitude sickness.
However, if Symptoms Escalate:
Severe symptoms can include confusion, inability to walk in a straight line, shortness of breath even at rest, and coughing up froth. These signs indicate the possibility of high-altitude cerebral edema (HACE) or high-altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE), both of which are medical emergencies.
Descend to a lower altitude as safely and quickly as possible and seek medical attention immediately.
Keep in mind – the vast majority of travelers don’t experience severe effects of altitude sickness when the above precautions are followed. Always err on the side of caution when it comes to altitude sickness.
