Stay hydrated
Drink water regularly, especially on travel days and before activity.
Aspen altitude guide
Discover Aspen
Life looks different at 7,908 feet.
Welcome to the Rockies
Extraordinary by nature.
Elevated by design.
Nestled high in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, Aspen is a place unlike anywhere else. Surrounded by the Elk Mountains and the beauty of the Roaring Fork Valley, Aspen brings together breathtaking scenery, world-class recreation, dining, culture and adventure.
And the elevation is part of what makes Aspen extraordinary. A little understanding can help you feel more comfortable and make more of every mountain day.
Aspen, Colorado
7,908
feet above sea level
Aspen Mountain · 11,200 ft
Welcome to 7,908 feet
The adventure begins high—and climbs from there.
Aspen sits at 7,908 feet above sea level, but your adventures may take you much higher. Skiing, hiking and sightseeing can quickly bring you to elevations of 10,000, 11,000 or even 12,000 feet.
At higher elevations, lower atmospheric pressure means your body receives less oxygen with each breath than it would at sea level. For visitors arriving from lower elevations, that difference can take some getting used to.
The air still contains oxygen. Lower pressure means fewer oxygen molecules reach your lungs with each breath.
Why you may feel different
Altitude can affect anyone.
Even healthy, active travelers can feel the effects of altitude. During your first days in Aspen, you may notice a few common signs.
Your body usually begins adjusting naturally through a process known as acclimatization.
- 01Shortness of breath with activity
- 02Headache
- 03Fatigue
- 04Increased thirst
- 05Difficulty sleeping
- 06Dizziness or lightheadedness
- 07Reduced exercise tolerance
- 08Nausea
The higher you go
Aspen is only the base camp.
A day in the mountains can take you thousands of feet higher.
Enjoy Aspen. Respect the altitude.
Give your body the time and support it needs.
The altitude is part of Aspen’s beauty. Understanding it can help you enjoy your time here with greater comfort and confidence.
Ease into Aspen
Keep the first day lighter and allow time for natural acclimatization.
Listen to your body
Slow down when symptoms appear and pay attention if they worsen.
Know when it’s more than normal adjustment.
Seek medical care for severe or worsening symptoms, confusion, chest tightness, or shortness of breath at rest.
Altitude support, delivered
Breathe easier. Enjoy more of Aspen.
Oxygen Now provides convenient oxygen delivery and altitude support for Aspen visitors who want additional support while enjoying their time in the mountains.