Living at High Altitude in Colorado Springs

Living in Colorado Springs means embracing high-altitude life, with elevations ranging from 5,000 to 7,000 feet. While the change might seem minor at first—aside from a little extra huffing and puffing when taking the stairs—it affects many aspects of daily life. Here’s what to expect and how to adapt, where the views are as breathtaking as the thin air.

Physical Adaptation

Breathing & Energy Levels

• Physical activities will leave you breathless faster.
• The good news? Your body takes 4–6 weeks to fully adjust and you’ll be back to a normal baseline. Some smart watches and fitness trackers will even help you track your adaptation, if you’re into that sort of thing.
• A lower red blood cell count initially leads to quicker exhaustion.
• Your body will need more frequent breaks, especially in the first few weeks, listen to it.
• If breathing feels abnormally difficult or you have preexisting conditions, consult a doctor. The reduced air pressure means there is literally less oxygen in the each breath of air, take special note if this will have a pronounced effect on your health.

Hydration

We all know to drink water, however, Colorado’s high altitude accelerates dehydration. Watch for these warning signs:

• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Headache
• Shortness of breath
• Lack of perspiration (even when active)

Special Note: During cooler weather, locals and visitors alike are caught off guard by how quickly they dehydrate. It’s easy to remember your water bottle when it’s 80 degrees outside, less so when there’s frost on the ground. 

Our recommendation is to bring water with you, even on short trips, even in the cold, so you’re not caught off guard.

Environmental Effects at High Altitude

Sun Exposure

At 6,000 feet, UV rays are much stronger:

• Sunburn happens faster—even on cloudy days.
• Spring is especially risky when winter-pale skin meets intense sun.
• When it snows expect to catch some rays from ground reflections.
• Expect summer “raccoon eyes” from sunglasses tan lines.

Solution: Always wear SPF 30+ sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. I keep sunscreen in my glovebox, just in case. 

Dry Climate & Weather Patterns

• Low humidity leads to static electricity (Beware when kissing your loved ones, you’ll get extra sparks).
• Weather shifts quickly—systems move through fast.
• Colorado Springs sees 300+ days of sunshine annually. A definite upshot to the dryer climate.
• Spring and fall bring strong, gusty winds.

Natural Disasters

• Tornadoes are rare but more common on the eastern plains.
• Strong seasonal winds require securing outdoor items.
• Low humidity and high winds can sometimes create particularly harsh fire seasons.

How High Altitude Affects Daily Life

Personal Care Adjustments

• Skin & Hair: Keep lotion and lip balm handy—your skin will thank you.
• Hairstyles: The dry air may affect how your hair behaves. Some styles work better than others.
• Sunglasses: Essential for eye protection against UV rays and glare.

Household Adjustments

• Boiling Water: Water boils at a lower temperature at high altitude. So because you’re cooking at a considerably lower temp sometimes, cooking times may vary.
• Wood Care: The dry air can cause wood furniture and floors to crack. Use a humidifier to maintain moisture.
• Fewer Insects: Bugs still exist in Colorado, even the dreaded mosquito, but they aren’t as prevalent as in other states. 

Tips for High-Altitude Living For New Residents

Adjusting Physically

• Take it slow—avoid intense workouts for the first 4–6 weeks.
• Plan physical tasks when you’re well-rested.
• Start with shorter hikes before attempting longer trails, even if you are experienced on long treks. Don’t take on The Incline on day one.
• Stick to a regular sleep schedule to help your body adjust

Hydration Strategies

• Drink before you feel thirsty.
• Set reminders to drink throughout the day.
• Carry a reusable water bottle everywhere.
• Add electrolytes, especially during exercise.
• Limit alcohol—it dehydrates you faster at altitude (you’re also more likely to feel each drink).

Sun Protection Habits

• Apply SPF 30+ sunscreen daily.
• Reapply every two hours when outdoors.
• Wear UV-protective sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat.
• Seek shade from 10 AM to 4 PM when the sun is strongest.

Managing Your Home

• Install whole-house or room humidifiers.
• Use hygrometers to monitor indoor humidity.
• Place bowls of water near heating vents to add moisture.
• Maintain wood furniture with wax or oil to prevent cracking.
• Use anti-static mats on carpets.

Vehicle Considerations

• Keep emergency water in your car.
• Have your vehicle checked for altitude adjustments.
• Secure items in truck beds—wind here is no joke.
• Consider tinted windows for UV protection.
• Keep sunscreen and lip balm in your car.

For Visitors: Helping Them Acclimate

Before Their Trip

• Hydrate well before arrival.
• Pack sunscreen, lip balm, and layered clothing for temperature swings.
• Consider arriving a day early to acclimate.
• Bring doctor-recommended altitude medications, if needed.

During Their Stay

• Start with light activities on day one.
• Plan indoor activities for midday breaks.
• Encourage frequent rest breaks.
• Watch for altitude sickness symptoms:
  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Dizziness
  • Fatigue
  • Loss of appetite
• Remind them to drink water even if they don’t feel thirsty.

Planning Activities

• Schedule demanding activities 24–48 hours after arrival.
• Plan early morning outdoor activities to avoid afternoon heat and wind.
• Have backup indoor plans for extreme weather.
• Start with lower-elevation activities before heading higher.

Seasonal Considerations

Spring

• Expect rapid weather shifts.
• Keep winter gear accessible through May.
• Spring winds can be intense—secure outdoor furniture.
• Start using sunscreen early in the season.

Summer

• Plan outdoor activities for mornings or evenings.
• Watch for afternoon thunderstorms.
• Stay hydrated—high altitude dehydrates you quickly.
• Differentiate between heat exhaustion and altitude sickness.

Fall

• Layer clothing for temperature swings.
• Continue sun protection—UV exposure remains high.
• Prepare for early snow.

Winter

• Hydrate—even in cold weather, dehydration happens.
• Use sunscreen—snow reflects UV rays, increasing exposure.
• Keep emergency supplies in your car.
• Increase humidifier use to combat dry indoor air.

Emergency Preparedness

Build an Emergency Kit with:

• Extra water & non-perishable snacks.
• First aid supplies.
• Portable phone charger.
• Blanket & flashlight.
• Basic tools.
• List of emergency contacts.
• Local emergency service numbers.

Know Where To Find:

• The nearest emergency room.
• Urgent care facilities.
• 24-hour pharmacies.
• Emergency shelters.

Now What?

Living at altitude can seem scary at first, but remember everyone living in Colorado Springs (including Olympic athletes who leverage the potential training benefits of high altitude) has adapted and so will you! By being aware of the initial challenges, what your body needs to succeed, and learning how to protect your home at altitude you’ll be on the right track!