Altitude Adjustment: What you need to know about recreating in Jackson Hole

What you need to know about recreating in Jackson Hole

The scenery isn’t the only thing that will leave you breathless on your Jackson Hole vacation. Jackson is situated at 6,237 feet and if you aren’t used to that kind of elevation, chances are your body will let you know. Here are a few things to remember that will help you enjoy all the Jackson Hole summer activities, no matter where you call home.

Acclimate.

Give your body a day to adjust to the higher altitude before heading high into the Tetons. You might find you don’t hike quite as fast, or you feel a little weaker if you aren’t used to exercising at high altitudes. When you haven’t adjusted, altitude can bring on headaches and nausea, especially if you try to get after it on the rivers or trails before your body has acclimated. Give yourself time to adjust. Listen to your body. Let it rest when tired and …

Hydrate.

Jackson is a dry climate, but just because you aren’t soaked with sweat standing on the Town Square, doesn’t mean you should stop pushing the water. In fact, the higher up you are, the more water you need to drink. Staying hydrated helps prevent those headaches and nausea some people experience when at a higher altitude than they are accustomed. Drink more than you think you need.

Wear sunscreen.

Whether you are on a family white water trip, or scrambling up a peak in Grand Teton National Park, don’t forget the sunscreen. The higher altitude increases your risk of sunburn. Even when the weather in Jackson Hole seems mild, lather up.

Don’t let sunburns, dehydration or altitude sickness ruin your Jackson Hole vacation. Remember whatever you are doing, you are doing it at high elevation, and don’t forget to keep drinking water.