As you may know, Denver, CO is known as the Mile High City because, at 5280 feet, it is literally a mile above sea level. Boulder, CO, where the wedding will be held, is, at 5430 feet, even higher up than Denver. This makes for gorgeous scenery, beautiful vistas and the very real need to be aware of what it takes to care for yourself at high altitudes.
Here is a short list of very important things you should do in order to make sure that you can stay healthy and enjoy yourself at altitude:
1) DRINK PLENTY OF WATER! This is absolutely essential. Staying hydrated at altitude is key to staying healthy at altitude. Drink MORE water than you usually drink-- and please note that Colorado's semi-arid (near desert) climate means that it is extremely dry here. It is possible in Colorado not to sweat as much while being active as you would at lower altitudes. This can easily lead you to believe that you are not sweating or are not really exerting yourself but DO NOT BE MISLED-- sweat evaporates quickly at high altitude and fluids must be replaced even if you do not "seem" to be perspiring.
We encourage you to take time for walks or hikes while you are in the mountains but DO NOT forget to bring water and drink lots of it OFTEN.
2) Monitor your intake of caffeine, alcohol and salty foods, which can accelerate or exacerbate dehydration. Visitors to Colorado often find that their tolerance for alcohol is much lower than usual. Please pace yourselves so that you can enjoy your visit in a healthy manner.
3) TAKE IT EASY. The air is thinner at higher altitudes and you should give your body plenty of time to adjust. If you live at sea level and you usually run 4 miles everyday, don't push yourself to replicate such a high level activity in Colorado. Listen to your body and don't push.
4) EVERYONE needs sunscreen and sunglasses at altitude. You are a MILE closer to the sun. Please protect your skin and eyes.
What are the signs of altitude sickness?
Headaches in combination with any of the following symptoms (via Wikipedia):
- Lack of appetite, nausea, or vomiting
- Fatigue or weakness
- Dizziness or light-headedness
- Insomnia
- Pins and needles
- Shortness of breath upon exertion
- Nosebleed
- Persistent rapid pulse
- Drowsiness
- General malaise
- Peripheral edema (swelling of hands, feet, and face).
- Extreme stomach upset
Staying comfortable at altitude:
The Boulder Mountain Lodge is located in a small mountain valley. Its altitude and location mean that it can be quite warm there during the day and much cooler at night. The best way to prepare for the swiftly changing temperatures is to pack layers and be prepared.
The average high in Boulder, CO in October is 66 degrees and the average low is 38.
The day of the wedding could be warm enough for sandals or cold enough for a heavy sweater or jacket. Please pack warm layers and closed toe shoes or boots. During the ceremony, men may appreciate having a sweater or blazer while ladies will likely feel comfortable at least having the option of a heavy wrap or light sweater.
Evenings in the mountains could be quite cool. You might even appreciate having a scarf and/or hat.
Also please note that the wedding will be outside in the grass. Flat shoes are recommended.
