How To Prepare for High Elevation Hiking
Ready to climb high and breathe... well, less? š Tackling a high-altitude hike is like leveling up in the hiking video game of life. The views? Absolutely chefās kiss. But let me warn you: itās no stroll to the fridge for snacks. Speaking of snacks, pack extra (more on that later).
High-altitude hiking = a LEGIT workout for your lungs and legs. Itās like trying to sprint while someone slowly steals your oxygen. But donāt worry, Iām here with the tea (and some rad gear from Lost Lake Outdoor) to help you not only survive but thrive. Letās get prepped!
1. So, What Even Is "High Altitude"?
According to science-y people (shoutout to Cleveland Clinic), high altitude starts at 8,000 feet. By the time you hit 14ers (Coloradoās most extra mountains), youāre in āvery high altitudeā territory. So yeah, the higher you climb, the harder things get. Itās not youāitās physics.
2. Oxygen: Your New Frenemy š¤
At 10,000 feet, your lungs are working with about ā the oxygen theyāre used to. Translation: you will feel like a noodle. So, pace yourself, champ!
3. Train Like You Mean It šļøāāļø
Yeah, we know: āI hike all the time, bro!ā But trust me, it hits different up there. Practice with your pack (loaded with cool gear like our products from ourĀ hydration collectionĀ or weighted training vests). Run some hills or stairsāitāll make your legs love/hate you.
No mountains nearby? No prob. Just load up your backpack with something fun like... a few bricks? Okay, not fun. Snacks are better.
4. Acclimate, Don't Exterminate š§āāļø
Rule #1: Don't YOLO from sea level to a 14er in 24 hours. Spend a few days chilling at a mid-altitude spot. This is basically permission to book a cute cabin and binge on snacks. And speaking of snacks...
5. Chug That H2O š¦
High altitude = drier air = youāre sweating more, even if you donāt feel it. Hydrate like your life depends on it (because it does).Ā
6. Snack Like a Pro š«
Your body is burning fuel faster up there, so pack enough snacks to make a raccoon jealous. Some MVPs: trail mix, beef jerky, energy bars, and a whole lotta chocolate.
7. Gear Up or Shut Up š
Weather changes faster than your mood after watching a sad TikTok. One second: sunny. Next second: snowstorm apocalypse.
Stock up on:
- Waterproof jackets (ours are sleek AND breathable).
- Insulated layers (because shivering isnāt a vibe).
- Hiking poles (trust me, theyāll save your knees and your dignity).
8. Chillax and Take Breaks š
Listen, this isnāt a race. You WILL move slower, and thatās okay. Start your hike early (like āstill dark outsideā early) so you have time to snack, breathe, and take a million summit selfies.
9. Altitude Sickness = No Bueno š¤¢
Altitude sickness doesnāt discriminate. You could be the fittest person alive and still feel like a melted popsicle. Signs include headaches, nausea, and feeling like your brain is arguing with gravity.
Pack essentials like:
- Diamox (ask your doctor).
- Ibuprofen (for that nogginā ache).
- Altitude aid kitsĀ (just in case).
10. Know When to Call It š©
Mountains arenāt going anywhere, but your health is #1. If you or your buddy starts feeling funky (and not in a good way), itās time to head down. No shame in saving the summit for another day.
Wrap It Up š
There you have it: 10 tips to make your high-altitude hike epic instead of tragic. Remember to prep, pack smart (with cool gear from Lost Lake Outdoor), and enjoy the views!
Catch you on the trails, legends. And donāt forget: lifeās better outside (preferably with snacks).
Happy hiking! š„¾š²
