How To Handle Altitude

Did you know that the town of Laramie sits at 7,220 feet above sea level, and some of our scenic byways like the Snowy Range Scenic Byway go as high as 10,000 feet above sea level? If you’re visiting us for the first time and coming from lower elevations, we recommend reading the guide below for tips on how to handle the high altitude climate and what to expect during your stay.

1. Drink lots of water

It is much easier to get dehydrated at higher elevations. Carry a water bottle with you and drink water regularly to help your body adjust to high altitude.

2. Pace yourself at happy hour

At higher altitudes, alcohol hits your body much faster than it would at sea level due to less oxygen in your blood. With 5 microbreweries located in downtown Laramie, it can be tempting to try them all on a pub crawl – just be sure to pace yourself when having a good time!

3. Take it slow at the gym and on the trail

If you are staying in a hotel or planning to go for a hike in the area, we recommend taking it slow to start. That workout you do at home will likely leave you gasping for air and feeling a little harder than normal because there’s less oxygen up here. Ease into things before exercising as hard as you would at home.

4. Moisturizer and chapstick help

Up here on the high plains, the air is much drier. Applying moisturizer or chapstick regularly can make a world of difference in comfort during your stay.

5. Don’t go for the summit on the first day

It’s important to give your body time to adjust to altitude if you are visiting us from lower elevations. Medicine Bow Peak, a popular summer hiking trail, sits at a staggering 12,014 feet above sea level. Going from 0-100 in a day is not recommended, and can in some cases result in getting altitude sickness. We want to be sure you’re able to enjoy all that the Laramie area has to offer, so we recommend giving your body time to adjust to the altitude.

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