Idaho Springs Altitude: Your Comprehensive Guide
Nestled amidst the majestic Rockies, Idaho Springs stands as a testament to Colorado’s high elevations. As a local company with years of experience, in this comprehensive guide we’ll dive into everything you need to know about Idaho Springs altitude and how to avoid altitude sickness.
Idaho Springs Altitude
Idaho Springs altitude sits at 7,526 feet high. Only about 30 miles from Denver, Idaho Springs is a drastic climb in elevation ascending over 2,000 feet than the city.
Idaho Springs Altitude:
Idaho Springs altitude - 7,526 ft (2,294 m)
With a truly exceptional location, Idaho Springs is the gateway to many high-altitude locations in Colorado including Winter Park, Loveland, and Frisco.
How Far Is Idaho Springs From Denver?
Idaho Springs is approximately 32 miles from Denver, which is around 40 minutes away depending on traffic.
Is Idaho Springs Colorado In The Mountains?
Yes, Idaho Springs is located in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado.
It’s a popular stop when visiting the Rocky Mountains as it’s one of the first mountain towns as you drive I-70. Skiers, hikers and Colorado visitors will commonly take a pitstop in Idaho Springs for food, breaks, and gas.
Is Idaho Springs Considered High Altitude?
Yes, Idaho Springs is considered high altitude.
According to Mountain Medicine, high altitude starts at 4,900 feet.² Idaho Springs well exceeds this height at 7,526 feet high.
Idaho Springs Altitude Sickness
Altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS), can affect visitors in Idaho Springs.
It is mainly triggered by the lower oxygen levels, combined with other issues like oxidative stress. This can lead to symptoms similar to a hangover such as headaches, nausea, and extreme fatigue.
Potential symptoms of Idaho Springs altitude sickness:
Headaches
Nausea or vomiting
Fatigue or weakness
Stomach issues
Dizziness and lightheadedness
Difficulty breathing
Feeling sick or ill
Be on the lookout for these types of symptoms when you arrive in Idaho Springs, which usually develop within 6-24 hours. To help prepare yourself for Idaho Springs altitude sickness, follow our recommended steps below.
5 Steps To Avoid Idaho Springs Altitude Sickness
Embarking on the heights of Idaho Springs is a thrilling adventure, but altitude sickness can cast a shadow on your experience.
Fear not, we have over a decade of high-altitude experience to share so you can navigate the elevation with ease.
Here’s 5 Steps To Avoid Idaho Springs Altitude Sickness:
1. Acclimate Slowly: The Golden Rule
A gradual ascent minimizes the risk of altitude sickness, ensuring a smoother transition to higher elevations. Take it slow and allow your body the time it needs to acclimate to the reduced oxygen levels.
For example, when visiting Idaho Springs from out of town, it’s best to stay a night or two in Denver first to help acclimate.
2. Hydrate Adequately: Sip, Sip, Sip
High elevations have been shown to speed up fluid loss twice as fast.³ This is likely due to the increased respiration, which increases the risk of dehydration.
Hydration is your ally, drink plenty of water to counteract the effects of higher elevations. Experts most commonly recommend drinking half your weight in ounces of water per day.
3. Drink Alcohol At Your Own Risk: Moderation is Key
While the allure of a mountain getaway might include a toast, be cautious with alcohol consumption. Alcohol can exacerbate dehydration and lead to symptoms similar to altitude sickness including headaches, fatigue, and nausea.
If you choose to indulge, it’s best to skip it until you’re acclimated, or do so in moderation.
4. Prioritize Sleep: The Power of Rest
Rest is paramount when navigating the altitudes of the Rocky Mountains. Quality rest aids recovery, and can even help increase oxygen and blood flow.⁴
Ensure you get adequate sleep to support your body's adjustment, 7-9 hours is most optimal. You can also help your sleep quality by maximizing natural sunlight exposure during the day, which can boost melatonin production at night.
5. Boost Your Antioxidants: Nature's Defense
Oxidative stress is shown to drastically increase as you increase in elevation. Furthermore, one study showed glutathione to deplete by 45% in high elevation, which is considered your body’s master antioxidant.
Elevate your antioxidant intake to fortify your body against the challenges of altitude. Supplementing antioxidants including glutathione can be a promising solution.
By incorporating these five essential steps into your journey, you pave the way for an unforgettable Idaho Springs experience. Whether hiking the trails, relishing historical marvels, or simply soaking in the mountain air, take charge of your altitude adventure with these prudent measures.
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SOURCES:
1. Idaho Springs Colorado Elevation
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Idaho_Springs,_Colorado
2. Effects of high altitude on humans
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Effects_of_high_altitude_on_humans
3. Why Do You Need to Drink a Lot of Water at a High Altitude?
https://www.livestrong.com/article/360485-how-to-train-for-high-altitude-hiking
4. Sleep: The Secret Ingredient of Injury Recovery
https://www.orthocarolina.com/media/sleep-the-secret-ingredient-of-injury-recovery
5. High altitude and oxidative stress
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17482529/
6. Effect of high altitude (7,620 m) exposure on glutathione
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11320641/
7. Oxidative Stress and Diseases Associated with High-Altitude Exposure
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8868315/
8. Idaho Springs, Elevation, Accommodations, Activities, Dinning, Attraction, Recreation
https://www.uncovercolorado.com/towns/idaho-springs/
