Timberline - Aspen 24

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DearTimberline Guest,

It is with great pleasure that we welcome you to our beautiful valleyand Timberline Condominiums. Whether you have come to enjoy the sun, hiking and biking of summer, or the fabulous skiing of winter, we hope to make you as comfortable as possible in your “home away from home ”

We hope you will take the opportunity to enjoy the Edge Restaurant & Bar, located in the main lodge building Offering Alpine Inspired Cuisine, it is one of the top restaurants in Snowmass Village Stop by for a specialty cocktail or dinner For reservations or take-out, dial 312 from your condominium phone

Please enjoy our slope-side pool/spa area featuring two hot tubs, swimming pool, work-out facility, steam room, changing rooms, showers, and fire pit. For safety reasons, we ask that you help us keep this area free of smoking and glass containers

The Timberline staff is dedicated to making your stay in Snowmass Villageas enjoyable as possible. The following information has been prepared to answer your questions and help your vacation exceedyour highest expectations. If you have additional questions about mountain trails, great restaurants or the best powder runs, please stop by, or call the Front Desk. We will happily tell you about the “local favorites.”

Enjoy your vacation!

Kindest regards,

TELEPHONE DIALING INSTRUCTIONS

(Local and room to room calls only)

TIMBERLINE GUEST ROOM EXTENSIONS

TO CALL ANOTHER TIMBERLINE UNIT: Dial the three-digit number below for the specific unit.

A Bldg:

A1A 100

A1B 101

A1C 102

A1D 103

A2A 104

A2B 105

A2C 106

A2D 107

A2E 108

A2F 109

A2G 110

A2H 111

A3A 196

A3B 113

A3C 114

A3D 115

A3E 116

A3F 117

A3G 118

A3H 119

B Bldg:

B1A 120

B1B 121

B1C 122

B1D 123

B2A 124

B2B 125

B2C 126

B2D 127

B2E 128

B2F 129

B2G 130

B2H 131

B3A 132

B3B 133

B3C 134

B3D 135

B3E 136

B3F 137

B3G 138

B3H 139

C Bldg:

C1A 140

C1B 141

C1C 142

C1D 143

C2A 144

C2B 145

C2C 146

C2D 147

C2E 148

C2F 149

C2G 150

C2H 151

C3A 152

C3B 153

C3C 154

C3D 155

C3E 156

C3F 157

C3G 158

C3H 159

D Bldg:

D1A 160 D1B 161

D1D 162

D2A 163 D2B 164

D2D 165

D2E 166

D2F 167 D2H 168

D3A 169

D3B 170

D3D 171

D3E 172

D3F 173

D3H 174

GUEST SERVICES

Airlines

American Airlines ................................................................................. 1-800-433-7300

Delta Airlines ......................................................................................... 1-800-221-1212

Southwest Airlines ............................................................................... 1-800-435-9792

United Airlines ...................................................................................... 1-800-864-8331

Effects of High Altitude

The altitude of the Timberline is 8,683 feet. Some visitors to Snowmass Village are more sensitive than others to the physiological effects of coming from lower elevations to higher elevations. Symptoms of these high-altitude effects may include headaches, dizziness, fatigue, dry mouth, and shortness of breath. It is possible to alleviate these effects by limiting the amount of physical exertion on the first several days of the vacation.

Also, limit alcohol consumption and increase intake of water and other beneficial liquids. If symptoms persist or become severe, consult a physician. The Front Desk can give you local physicians’ numbers.

The comparatively thin air at this elevation allows more UV light rays to penetrate the atmosphere, increasing sun exposure. Be sure to wear both sunglasses and sunscreen while enjoying the outdoors. This is especially true when skiing, as the snow intensifies and reflects the sun’s rays. Use plenty of moisturizing lotion to avoid dry skin caused by sun and low humidity.

Internet Access

Complimentary wireless Internet access is provided for Timberline guests. Each unit has their own Internet box through Comcast.

For your Wireless Internet User ID and Password check your arrival letter or call the Front Desk.

Bell Service

Our bell staff is available to handle your luggage or answer any questions about the local area.

Complimentary airport shuttle service is available. Aspen airport transportation should be arranged at least 48 hours in advance; please call the Front Desk. We also provide transportation around Snowmass Village.

GUEST SERVICES

Chamber of Commerce

For maps and area information, contact the Front Desk.

Check-Out / Check-In

Check-out time is 10:00 a.m. Check-in time is 4:00 p.m.

Credit Card Information

We accept American Express, Visa, Discover and MasterCard.

Dry Cleaning and Laundry

The Timberline guest laundry facilities contain coined-operated washers, dryers and soap dispensers. There are two laundry facilities: one located before the pool gate and the other across the street from the lodge, in the building above parking lot 13.

Exercise Room

Our exercise room is fully equipped for your fitness needs. Open 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Game Room

The game room is located next to the Edge deck. Ping pong, board games & others are available for guests. (Summer Season Only)

Ice and Vending Machines

These machines are located at the top of the stairs on the 2nd floor of the lodge building.

Mail

Mail is collected and delivered daily by the Front Desk.

Parking

During the winter season, (currently not in summer but this is subject to change without notice), every car in Snowmass Village MUST have a valid parking permit. Each car without a permit will be ticketed by the Snowmass Village Police Department at the guest’s expense. You may purchase your permit from the Front Desk. If you arrive after the Front Desk has closed, you must stop by the Front Desk by 8:00 a.m. the following morning to obtain a parking permit for your vehicle. Please note that the parking lots are regulated by the Town, and The Timberline has no control over the costs or tickets.

GUEST SERVICES

Pet Policy

ONLY service animals are allowed at the Timberline. Non- service pets of any kind are NOT allowed. Arrangements for boarding your pets can be made at several local kennels. For anyone that chooses to bring their pets anyway, a cleaning fee of $200/day will be charged.

Reservations ..............................................................................................

Restaurant .............................................................................................................

Our hotel restaurant, The Edge Restaurant & Bar is located in the main lodge building.

Ski Shop

The ski shop is operated by Incline Sports and located next to the main entrance of the pool. (Winter Season Only)

Swimming Pool and Hot Tubs

Our swimming pool hours vary depending on the season. Please refer to your welcome letter for more information or contact the Front Desk for current hours. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. No glass permitted in the pool area. Swim at your own risk as there is no lifeguard on duty.

Telephone Services

In unit phones serve only local and in-house calls.

TELEVISION CHANNELS

XFINITY CABLE GUIDE (SUBJECT TO CHANGE)

2 KWGN (CW) 3 KREG (CBS) Grand Junction

KCNC (CBS) 5 KTVD (My Network TV) 6 KRMA (PBS)

KMGH (ABC) 8 Pitkin County Channel 9 KUSA (NBC) 10 KBDI (PBS) 11 The Government Channel

Grass Roots -Aspen

KDVR (FOX)

KZCO (Azteca America)

15 KCEC (Univision)

HSN

Basalt Local Access

KDEN (Telemundo)

(ION)

KPJR (TBN) 236 KPJR (The Church Channel

KPJR (Enlace)

KPJR (JCTV)

KPJR (Smile of a Child)

KRMT (Daystar)

KRMA (Vme)

KRMA (24/7 News) 248 KRMA (PBS Create) 249 KUSA (9 News Weather Plus)

KTVD (Me TV)

KBDI (PBS Encore)

KBDI (MHz Worldwide)

KDVR (AntennaTV)

KUSA Justice Network

KWGN (ThisTV)

KCEC (LATV)

KDEN (Exitos) 262 KBDI (NHK World) 271 Investigation Discovery

National Geographic

Xfinity Latino Entertainment

TELEVISION CHANNELS

XFINITY CABLE GUIDE (SUBJECT TO CHANGE)

333/633 KPJR (Enlace)

401 FXX

408 FS1

417 NFL Network

431 PAC-12 National

482 UP

504 LMN

507 Hallmrk Mov & Mysteries

646 KDEN HD (Telemundo)

647 KCEC HD (Univision

652 KMGH HD (ABC)

653 KUSA HD (NBC)

654 KCNC HD (CBS)

655 KDVR HD (FOX)

656 KWGN HD (CW)

657 KTVD HD ( My Network TV)

658 KRMA HD (PBS)

659 KREG HD (CBS)

660 KBDI HD

663 Velocity HD

664 AXS TV HD

665 AT&T SportsNet HD

667 TNT HD

668 ESPN HD

670 ESPN2 HD

671 Palladia

672 Golf HD

674 National Geographic HD

675 A&E HD

676 NFL Network HD

677 TLC HD

678 TBS HD

679 Disney Channel HD

680 FreeForm HD

681 Food Network HD

682 HGTV HD

688 Syfy HD

689 NBC Sports Network HD

691 FX HD

692 FXX HD

721 QVC HD

723 Discovery Channel HD

728 Altitude HD

732 Cartoon Network HD

733 Nickelodeon HD

735 Hallmark Channel HD

738 Animal Planet HD

739 History HD

741 Bloomberg TV HD

742 The Weather Channel HD

743 CNN HD

744 HLN HD

745 Fox News Channel HD

746 CNBC HD

747 MSNBC HD

748 USA Network HD

749 Lifetime HD

750 Oxygen HD

751 Comedy Central HD

752 Bravo HD

753 E! HD

757 AMC HD

760 MTV HD

761 VH1 HD

765 Travel Channel

771 truTV HD

773 BBC America HD

777 FS1 HD

786 OWN HD

791 Investigation Discovery HD

795 BET HD

796 HSN HD

799 WGN HD

836 UP HD

838 Universal Kids HD

840 PAC-12 National HD

857 Hallmrk Mov & Mystery HD

858 LMN HD

880 PEG HD

881 PEG HD

901-950 Music Choice

1002 KWGN HD (CW)

1003 KREG HD (CBS)

1004 KCNC HD (CBS)

1006 KRMA HD (PBS)

1007 KMGH HD (ABC)

1008 HSN HD

1009 KUSA HD (NBC)

1012 KBDI HD (PBS)

1013 QVC HD

1015 KZCO-LD (AZT)

1020 KTVD HD (MyTV)

1024 Jewlery TV

1025 KDEN HD (TEL)

1031 KDVR HD (FOX)

1038 KPJR (TBN)

1039 Jewlery TV

1049 HSN2

1050 KCEC HD (UNV)

1059 KPXC HD (ION)

1060 PEG HD

1061 PEG HD

1070 Government Access

1072 Government Access

1075 Public Access

TELEVISION CHANNELS

XFINITY CABLE GUIDE (SUBJECT TO CHANGE)

1080-1081 Local Programming

1082 Local Origination

1087-1099 Leased Access

1102 The Weather Channel HD

1110 Fox News Channel HD

1111 CNN HD

1112 HLN HD

1113 MSNBC HD

1121 CNBC HD

1122 Bloomberg TV HD

1123 FOX Business Network HD

1127 Comcast Entertain TV HD

1128 C-Span

1150 KBDI MHZ Worldview (PBS0)

1151 KBDI Documentary (PBS)

1152 KBDI-NHK

1154 KRMA Create (PBS)

1155 KRMA Vme

1158 KCEC LATV

1162 KCNC Decades

1166 KDEN TeleXitos

1170 KDVR AntennaTV

1174 KMGH Laff TV

1178 KPJR Enlace (TBN)

1179 KPJR Church (TBN)

1180 KPJR Juice/Smile (TBN)

1181 KPJR Salsa (TBN)

1182 KTVD MeTV

1186 KUSA Justice

1187 KUSA Weather Natn (NBC)

1190 KWGN CometTV

1191 KWGN ThisTV

1205 ESPN HD

1206 ESPN2HD

1207 NBC Sports Network HD

1208 Fox Sports 1 HD

1215 NFL Network HD

1223 Golf Channel HD

1243 Velocity HD

1250 Altitude Sports HD

1251 AT&T SportsNet HD

1329 PAC 12 National HD

1402 A&E HD

1403 USA Network HD

1404 TNT HD

1405 AMC HD

1409 FX HD

1410 FXX HD 1411 Syfy HD 1418 BBC America HD

1420 WGN America HD

1426 TV Land

1428 WE tv HD

1430 truTV HD 1435 Comedy Central HD

1444 Investigation Discovery HD

1450 TLC HD

1455 Lifetime Hd 1456 LMN HD 1457 UP HD 1458 Hallmark Channel HD 1459 Hallmrk Mov & Mystery HD 1463 Bavo HD 1465 OWN HD 1466 E! HD 1471 Animal Planet HD 1473 National Geographic HD 1478 History HD 1484 Food Network HD 1488 Travel Channel HD 1492 HGTV HD 1606 MTV HD 1607 VH1 HD 1612 MTV LIVE HD

1613 AXS TV 1625 Bet HD 1655 INSP

1707 Universla Kids HD 1715 Disney Channel HD 1728 Nickelodeon HD 1734 Cartoon Network HD

1742 Freeform HD 1757 Movie Plex

HBO

550 HBO 552 HBO2 554 HBO Signature 556 HBO Family 558 HBO Latino 559 HBO Comedy

560 HBO Zone 651 HBO HD 861 HBO2 HD 863 HBO Singature HD 866 HBO Latino HD

YOUR XFINITY X1 REMOTE

SAFETY AND SECURITY PROCEDURES

Your safety and the security of your personal property are of the utmost concern to those of us who welcome you as our guest. We urge you to take advantage of the following suggestions.

Safe Deposit Boxes

DO NOT LEAVE MONEY OR VALUABLES IN YOUR ROOM. In-room safes are located in the master bedroom closet for any valuables you may have.

Double Locks

For additional security, utilize the deadbolt lock provided on your door upon entering.

Admittance

Do not admit persons to your room without first making identification. A “peep hole” is provided in your door for your convenience. If there is any doubt about the person’s true identity, please contact the Front Desk.

Fire

For your safety, the Timberline’s fire system and all fire detectors are monitored 24 hours a day. PLEASE DO NOT TAMPER WITH SMOKE ALARMS AT ANY TIME! If you are having a problem with the detector, please notify the Front Desk immediately and wait for a staff member to assist you.

Please familiarize yourself with the location of the nearest fire exit stairway. In the unlikely event of a fire, please move quickly but calmly to the stairs. Report fire or smoke to the Front Desk.

Fire Safety Procedures

Like all buildings, hotels can have fires. Plan what to do when you check in. You won’t have time to plan during a fire.

• First, find two exits nearest your room. Be sure they are unlocked and unblocked.

• Then, count doors between your room and exits, so you’ll have a reference point if it is smoky.

• When you hear an alarm, act, don’t investigate.

• If the fire is in your room, get out and close the door. Once out, report the fire.

• If the fire is not in your room, leave if you can. First, feel your door. If it is cool, open it slowly and go to the nearest exit. Crawl in smoke. Fresh air will be at the floor.

• If your door is hot, don’t open it. Your room may be the safest place to be. Seal all cracks with wet towels. Shut off fans. Signal at your window. Call the Fire Department and wait to be rescued.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Child Care

Numerous resources for childcare are available, including both drop-off daycare, and day or night childcare in your Timberline condominium. A list of childcare providers is located at the Front Desk.

Facsimiles

The Front Desk gladly provides facsimile services during your visit. There is a charge of $1.00 per page for all domestic transmissions, and $2.00 per page for all international transmissions. Our fax number is 970-923-3036.

Fireplace Hints

Hot! Hot! Hot!

We welcome you to enjoy the warmth and magic provided by your fireplace. If you are in a studio where there are no fireplaces, we welcome you to join us by our large fireplace in the lobby.

Here are a few simple guidelines that are intended to make your fires hassle-free.

• Objects close to the fire: Please be aware of anything within close proximity to the fire that could melt.

• Fire screens: Keep the screen closed at all times.

• Timer: There is a control box either to the right or left of your fireplace. There is an automatic two-hour timer on all of our fireplaces. However if you wish to turn off before the two hours are up press the off button.

Humidifiers

At least one humidifier is provided for each unit at no charge. If you have questions on how to fill the humidifier, please contact the Front Desk.

Although it may appear to not function correctly, the humidifiers emit an invisible mist – therefore, you will not see the moisture. These are high- capacity humidifiers that can cover more than enough space in your unit. If you require more humidifiers, there is an additional charge.

Lost and Found

Check with the Front Desk or housekeeping for any lost items.

Luggage

Our bellmen coordinate storage, delivery and other luggage services. Please contact the Front Desk for assistance.

Shipping and Receiving

Receiving: Guests may ship their luggage/bags to the Timberline Condominiums prior to arrival. A $10.00 handling fee per bag applies for shipping within three days of arrival. Luggage/bags stored for more than three days prior to arrival are subject to an additional $10.00 per bag fee. Oversized luggage might be subject to additional fees.

Shipping: We will ship luggage/bags to a guest after departure. The guest is responsible to pack items, seal and label them. There is a $5.00 per bag, service fee.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Maintenance and Repairs

If you have any problems or notice items in the condominiums requiring repair or replacement, please immediately call us at the Front Desk. Our phones are answered after hours by an answering service, which will then page one of our staff members to assist you in emergencies.

Real Estate Showings

The property you have rented may be listed for sale. If so, there is a possibility that our office will contact you and inform you of a scheduled Real Estate showing within the next twenty-four hours. Real Estate showings typically will occur between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m., and a Timberline Manager will always accompany the Realtor, and prospective buyers. We appreciate your cooperation.

Ski Tuning, Rental and Storage

Located by the pool at the Timberline. Incline provides rentals, ski & snowboard tuning service & storage.

Ski/snowboard lockups are conveniently located on the sundeck, above the pool, and at various locations around the property. These lockups are complimentary; however, there is a fee for lost keys.

Steam and Exercise Room

These rooms are located beside the pool. These rooms are co-ed with separate changing rooms. These facilities are open from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. An adult must accompany children under the age of 14.

Transportation

The Town of Snowmass Village offers free shuttle service throughout the Village from 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. Hours may vary seasonally. The Roaring Fork Transit Agency (RFTA) system serves the entire valley, including free skier shuttles between the four mountains. Please call 970-923-3500 for Village Shuttle information, and 970-925-8484 for RFTA information.

Taxi services are also available. Please contact the Front Desk for rates and other information.

Airline phone numbers can be found under the “Activities/Information Contact Numbers”.

Vending and Ice Machines

These machines are located at the top of the stairs on the 2nd floor of the lodge building.

DVD Movie Check-Out

Free DVDs are available at the Front Desk. We ask that you only check out two movies at a time, and that you return them the next day.

Menu

Visit www.theedgesnowmass.com or call extension 312 for the latest menu offering.

WELCOME TO

THE ROARING FORK VALLEY

The Aspen/Snowmass area is a place for dreams and inspiration. When Walter Paepcke arrived in Aspen, he fell in love with the area. He was involved in the development of the ski area, and pioneers the development of Aspen as a major arts and cultural center. He dreamed of a place where people could gather to enrich the mind, body and spirit. This vision came to be known as the “Aspen Idea.” Skiing was meant to satisfy the body component, the Aspen Institute was created for the mind, and the Aspen Music Festival and School was born to enrich the soul.

Today, the Aspen Idea is alive and thriving throughout Aspen and Snowmass, and we invite you to discover for yourself why we call this place “home.”

Allow us to be your tour guides. Explore every corner of our community – from Aspen’s rich historical heritage, breathtaking scenery, and unlimited recreational and cultural opportunity, to our local secrets, such as favorite places to go hiking and biking.

Perhaps you will find yourself returning to that special place, time and time again.

GETTING AROUND ASPEN

Once visitors arrive in Aspen, most find they have little need for a car. There is extensive and frequent bus service between Aspen and Snowmass and further down valley. Many of the hotels, shops and restaurants are within comfortable walking distance, and taxis, limos, and hotel courtesy vans provide service to and from the airport and around town. If you do bring a car, you will need to familiarize yourself with Aspen’s Pay & Display Parking system. For more information, call the City of Aspen Transportation & Parking Department at (970) 920-5267.

ASPEN CHAMBER RESORT ASSOCIATION VISITOR CENTER

590 N. Mill Street - www.aspenchamber.org - (970) 925-1940

Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, closed holidays and weekends.

Ashcroft Ghost Town

THINGS TO DO

Nestled in the Castle Creek Valley 13 miles from Aspen, Ashcroft was once a mining camp in the 1880s with a population of 2,500 residents. You can walk through the remaining buildings or along the trails that wind through Aspen groves. Reopens for tours in mid-June. Aspen Historical Society (970) 925-3721.

Aspen Center for Environmental Studies at Hallam Lake Nature Preserve

Explore ACES’ beautiful 25-acre Hallam Lake Nature Preserve and Environmental Learning Center featuring on-site naturalists. Check out resident birds of prey, indoor trout stream, self-guided trails, and more! ACES also offers daily programs for children and adults, as well as free guided nature walks on Aspen Mountain, at the Maroon Bells, the Castle Creek Valley, and in Snowmass Village. Hours: Mon-Sat, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (970) 925-5756.

Independence Pass

The ghost town of Independence is located 16 miles east of Aspen on Independence Pass via Highway 82. This gold mining town reached a peak population of 1,000 people in 1882. Reopens for tours in mid-June.

The summit is another four miles east with spectacular mountain views. Independence Pass is a paved, winding road, which requires safe and cautious driving. The first heavy snowfall closes the pass for the winter until Memorial Day Weekend. Aspen Historical Society (970) 925-3721.

The Maroon Bells

The Maroon Bells are among the most photographed peaks in North America and are one of Aspen’s grand attractions. Visitors can take the Roaring Fork Transit Authority shuttle up to the base of the mountains and enjoy several scenic hiking trails in this wilderness area. RFTA (970) 925-8484.

Rodeos

The Snowmass Rodeo is the longest running rodeo in Colorado. This authentic western event takes place every Wednesday evening in the summers through mid-August.

BBQ starting at 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and rodeo starting at 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., Snowmass Village Rodeo, www.snowmassrodeo.org.

The Silver Queen Gondola

One of Aspen’s most popular attractions during the summer. With a rise of 3,267 vertical feet, the Silver Queen Gondola travels 2-1/2 miles to the 11,212-ft. summit of Aspen Mountain in just 18 minutes. The ride offers dramatic views of the Elk Mountains and the town of Aspen. Call the Aspen Skiing Company at (970) 925-1220, (800) 525-6200 or (970) 923-1227.

THINGS TO DO

Cross-Country Skiing and Snow Shoeing

The Aspen/Snowmass Nordic trail system is unique to North America because it links two towns. Explore the extensive trail system between these two towns and throughout our valley. Please contact the Aspen Nordic Center for maps, lessons or equipment rentals. (970) 429-2039.

Climbing

Climb rocks or 14,000’ peaks! Discover the thrill of technical rock climbing, peak ascents, alpine mountaineering, expedition training and backpacking trips, or try out the City’s state-of the-art climbing wall. City of Aspen Recreation Department: (970) 544-4100.

Hiking

Please educate yourself about wilderness ethics and regulations in order to preserve and protect the natural features of our wilderness. Hikers of all abilities enjoy Aspen’s abundant trails, from a leisurely hike along the Rio Grande trail to an energetic hike to American or Cathedral lakes.

T-Lazy-7 Ranch

The T-Lazy-7 Ranch is bustling with fun activities to this day. Guests continue to enjoy this mountain paradise for weddings and events, while recreational enthusiasts take part in snowmobile tours, horseback riding and fly fishing. The continued support from Aspen and the Roaring Fork community has also made it possible for the T-Lazy-7 Ranch to survive through generations. 3129 Maroon Creek Rd., Aspen, Colorado 81611 (970) 925-4614

Anderson Ranch Arts Center

Explore this year-round visual arts community. Anderson Ranch Arts Center is best known for its summer workshops in painting, woodworking, ceramics, photography, and more. Instructors are top artists from around the country. Anderson Ranch has earned a national reputation as a place to learn from the

HIGH ALTITUDE TIPS

You are visiting a beautiful area and we hope you enjoy every minute of your stay. But some of the very features which make these high valleys so attractive can cause problems unless you know how to prevent them. Following are some suggestions.

Altitude

Here, some 8,000 feet high, the air is thinner and there is less oxygen available. You may already have noticed that you are breathing deeper or faster and feel a bit short of breath at times.

This is one of the body’s first reactions to the altitude. Your heart probably beats faster. These are normal, helpful responses. You may have a headache, a touch of nausea, or feel tired. About 15 percent of all vacationers have such symptoms, which usually disappear 24-36 hours after arrival.

If these symptoms should grow worse or if you are worried, please get help. Doctors here are familiar with altitude illness and may ease your discomfort during the adjustment period.

Sun and Temperature

The sun has more power in this thin air and a bad sunburn can spoil your stay; use protective sun cream and clothing. It also gets chilly at night, so take extra warm clothes if you might be caught outside after dusk.

Hypothermia (low body temperature) can occur in summer or winter if you are wet or chilled by even a light breeze. It can also occur when you’re tired and haven’t eaten properly. Clumsiness, trouble thinking or talking clearly, and overwhelming tiredness are warning signs of hypothermia. Keep an eye on your companions. If these warning signs appear, stop, warm up, eat, take a hot drink, and if necessary, send at once for help.

In winter, most people wear enough warm clothes, but be sure your boots and gloves aren’t wet or too tight. If you lose sensation in fingers, toes, cheeks, ears or nose, stop, look for frostbite (white, cold, numb skin) and take time to warm up.

Snow blindness from snow glare and ultraviolet rays from bright summer sunlight are real hazards, so wear dark glasses, even on a cloudy day.

Humidity

The crisp, dry mountain air is exhilarating, but you’ll lose more body moisture from the deeper breathing and from perspiring (often you won’t even notice this). It’s important to maintain your body’s water store, so drink two or three times more water or juices than usual. The dryness also affects contact lens wearers who may need to moisturize their eyes more frequently. Contact lenses may need to be removed on a daily basis to let the eye take in more oxygen.

Alcohol has extra impact at altitude – one drink does the work of two – so monitor your alcohol intake.

HIGH ALTITUDE TIPS

Injuries

Accidents can happen at any time to anyone, but they are more common when you’re cold, tired or hungry. Whether you are hiking, skiing, playing golf or tennis, give your body plenty of food and water and keep your muscles warm so they function efficiently. Don’t keep going when you’re tired; quit while you’re ahead!

Illness

You’re as likely to get a cold, flu, stomach trouble, or something worse, here as anywhere else. Don’t blame everything on the altitude. If in doubt, see a doctor. The health services can handle most problems here, but helicopter or surface ambulances are quickly available. When in doubt, call for help.

Altitude sickness doesn’t discriminate. It can affect anyone regardless of age, sex, or physical conditioning. In fact, some of the best athletes in the world suffer from altitude sickness. To minimize your pain and maximize your fun, remember these tips during your vacation.

Keep hydrated. Acclimatization is often accompanied by fluid loss, so you need to drink lots of fluids to remain hydrated (at least three-four quarts per day). When you go to bed at night, leave a glass of water on your night stand.

Take it easy. Don’t over-exert yourself when you first get up to altitude. Light activity during the day is better than sleeping because respiration decreases during sleep, making the symptoms worse.

Avoid tobacco, alcohol and other depressant drugs, including tranquilizers and sleeping pills. These depressants further decrease the respiratory drive during sleep, resulting in worsening symptoms.

Eat healthy. Eat a high carbohydrate diet (more than 70% or your calories from carbohydrates) while at high altitude.

How do you know if you have altitude sickness? The following are some symptoms: an early morning headache that doesn’t go away, low levels of energy, insomnia, shortness of breath, nausea and loss of appetite.

BACKCOUNTRY TIPS

Dry / warm clothes. Weather in the high country is very unpredictable. If you are heading out for a short hike on a sunny day, be sure to bring rain gear and dry, warm clothes. You never know when a storm may move in.

Sunscreen. Don’t forget to bring plenty of sunscreen! Most people associate the cooler temperatures at high altitude with a “less powerful” sun. In reality, the sun at high altitude is more intense than at sea level, regardless of the temperatures. Be sure to properly cover up and avoid over-exposure to the sun.

Bring plenty of water. One of the worst things you can do at high altitude is dehydrate yourself. You might assume the Rockies are running with potable H2O and therefore be tempted to skimp on carrying the weight of bottled water. Don’t fall for it. Mexico has “la Turista,” the Rockies have Giardia – “Beaver Fever.” Water from streams or lakes, must be purified before drinking.

Bring an emergency kit. As the Boy Scouts say – be prepared. Hopefully you will never have to use your emergency kit, but consider the alternative when you are hours away from help. Emergencies are unpredictable.

Know your gear. Don’t trek off into the wilderness without trying out your gear. Hiking boots are your only mode of transportation, so they have to work perfectly. They may feel great walking around the store – yet ten minutes into your hike, you may have blisters the size of moguls. Be sure to discover these nuances before you leave by breaking-in your equipment. Know what straps on your backpack go where, how to adjust them, and how to make your pack feel just right.

Have fun! That’s what vacations are for.

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