The Highest point in Vail
Craving a Rocky Mountain high? I think there's a little John Denver in all of us. I know when I'm skiing the Vail resort I get high no matter what mountain I'm on. I'm not talking about that wacky stuff I used to ski the bunny hills of Wisconsin. I'm talking about that natural feeling that occurs when you're at an altitude of 8,150 feet and skiing the most beautiful mountain in North America. Whether you're aiming to challenge your skiing skills or scale the peaks in the crisp summer air in the heart of the Rockies Vail is it. Colorado has some of the highest peaks in the continental U.S. (Mt. Elbert in Leadville, Colorado boasts the highest peak at 14,433 feet). The highest point in Vail is 11,570 feet in summit elevation.
Here are few quick facts to get your outing plans going in beautiful Colorado.
When you ski Vail Mountain you'll enjoy 3,330 feet of vertical trail, with a base elevation of 8,120 feet, all beautifully covered in 335 inches of average annual snowfall. 332 acres of Vail ski area is enhanced with 332 vast acres of snowmaking.
Trails are varied, accommodating everyone from the novice to the moderate, to the fastest and most furious skier. For the beginner, 18% of Vail Ski Resort trails offer a gentle and gradual tour to the bottom, 29% will challenge the intermediate skier, the remaining 53% of the hills will cater to the wild skier in us all. Getting you to the top is not only functional but fun, as Vail Ski Resort's only gondola, and its 30 lifts, including 10 high-speed quads, uses the latest lift technology. Hint: Get discount lift tickets when you purchase online in advance.
Some tips on handling the high altitude
Many people planning their visit to Colorado wonder about the effects of the altitude on their health and how they can prepare for even the highest point. Vail altitude may be considerable higher than you're used to, especially if you are first-time Rocky Mountain tourist. In general you need not worry about altitude compromising the quality of your vacation, just relax and enjoy Colorado. But you may experience a few general symptoms, such as increased fatigue, light dizziness, mild shortness of breath, feelings of uneasiness, mild heart palpitations, headaches and restless sleep. These are temporary however, and should ease up after a few days once you have acclimated to the altitude.
Here are some ways you can prepare for even the highest point in Vail:
-People with heart conditions should consult their doctor about their trip;
they may need to adjust their medications.
-Before venturing into the mountains, pre-condition your body and be in good
shape. You'll be in even better shape when you return home, which is
why many world-class athletes train in Colorado!
-Plan regular short visits to the Rockies
-Avoid over-exertion
-Use common sense when eating, or drinking alcohol. Don't overdue it!
-If symptoms worsen visitors should seek medical help.
Other health issues to consider when heading for the hills are possible ultraviolet damage from the sun and hypothermia. Colorado is closer to the sun. Though winter chill and snow may not seem synonymous with sun damage it can occur, so choose good, long-lasting UV protection for your face.
To avoid hypothermia dress appropriately. Colorado winters usually present very skiable and often moderate weather. Only the hard-core skiers will venture out in sub-zero temperatures, but hypothermia can occur in any winter condition if a person isn't dressed properly. Dress in layers of loose clothing, and keep your head and hands warm and dry.
With good common sense, there's no reason why anyone shouldn't enjoy even the highest point in Vail with few consequences.
Source material: Copyright, 1986, Robert A. Dacey and the Rocky
Mountain Heart Research Institute. HEARTBEAT -- Winter 1986 1.
