 Weather
It is no wonder that Vail is the top ski resort in the country, its massive slopes are bathed in intense sunshine over 300 days a year yet receive an average of 346 inches of the fluffiest champagne powder on earth! What a combination…300 days of humidity-less never-ending sky sunshine, over 6 miles of mountain peaks, and 346 inches of snow! The lack of humidity really takes the bite out of the colder mountain winter temperatures and makes for the most pleasant climate in summertime. Best of all, the dry climate and high altitude provide the optimal environment for snow, producing a very light and fluffy powder that your skis will float through and your board will ride like an ocean wave.
Since it is located in Colorado’s High Country, the weather in Vail can change in minutes so it is best to head out prepared for all situations. Wintertime storms can whip up quickly changing a beautiful sunny day into a wonderful blizzard. It is also not unheard of for there to be some snow falling on a June afternoon only to be followed by a 60-70 degree magnificent Colorado blue-sky day. The days of summer are filled with moderate temperatures in the 70’s and low 80’s with low humidity and plenty of sunshine. An afternoon shower is not out of the ordinary but they are typically brief. The nights in both summer and winter can be much colder than the days with 30-40 degree temperatures typical in the summer and 0-30’s in the winter.
 Altitude
To get to the top of Vail start at 8,120 feet above sea level then climb 3,450 feet to reach the summit elevation of 11,570 feet, most choose to accomplish this by riding a chairlift or the gondola. It is this high altitude that provides us with all of the wonderful sunshine and abundant snowfall, but it is also a factor that everyone traveling to the area should take into account. We all know how plentiful the positive points are for being in the High Country, a little precaution and awareness of the effects of high altitude can help to make your ski vacation a lot more enjoyable.
Negative effects can range from a mild headache to full blown altitude sickness with typical symptoms being flu-like with some nausea. There is no way to tell who will be effected by the altitude and to what extent, if at all; symptoms usually go away after a day or two but there are some cases where leaving the area and going to a lower altitude is required.
Take a little time to read and follow the tips below, it should help make your stay in Vail more enjoyable:
1. Everyone can and will be effected by the altitude to a certain extent
2. Hydrate! Drink as much water as you can…and then drink some more. Start prior to traveling and drink water heavily throughout your vacation.
3. Do not drink alcohol. O.k., you can drink alcohol if you want, but take it easy. A drink at high altitude will have three times the effect as at sea level. The ill effects on your system will be greatly increased!
4. Take it easy your first day or two and try to get as much sleep as possible.
5. There is less oxygen in the air so your heart and lungs have to work harder and you will feel the effects of things like walking up stairs much more.
6. Eat high carbohydrate foods, bring energy bars and water with you on the mountain.
7. Wear sunscreen and remember to reapply it often, the sun is 40% stronger than at sea level and you will burn quickly.
8. Moderation is the key to an enjoyable ski vacation in the mountains. |
