Altitude and Ski Safety

Altitude: Plan for It

Many ski resorts sit high enough to affect visitors coming from sea level. Altitude illness is usually mild and passes in a day or two, but it can spoil the start of a trip, and in rare cases become serious. A few simple steps help.

According to the CDC guidance on altitude illness, travelers who are not acclimatized and sleep at 8,000 feet (2,450 meters) or higher are at risk. Acute mountain sickness feels a lot like a hangover: headache, often with tiredness, dizziness, nausea or loss of appetite, usually starting within hours of arrival or after the first night.

• Take it easy on day one. A lighter first day helps your body adjust.
• Consider a night lower down before going to a very high resort, if your route allows.
• Avoid alcohol for the first 48 hours at high altitude, as the CDC advises.
• Descend if symptoms get worse despite rest, and seek medical help.
• Talk to your doctor before the trip if you have heart or lung conditions or are pregnant.

Weather, Sun and Out-of-Bounds Terrain

• Cold: cover skin on windy days, take warm-up breaks and watch children for signs of being too cold.
• Sun: UV is stronger at elevation and reflects off snow. Use sunscreen and goggles or sunglasses even on cloudy days.
• Hydration: mountain air is dry. Drink water regularly.
• Backcountry and closed areas: terrain outside resort boundaries is not patrolled or controlled for avalanches. Never go without training, equipment and, ideally, a certified guide.
• Insurance: check that your travel insurance covers winter sports and mountain rescue. Cruise & Travel Insurance explains what to ask.

For general safety advice on any trip, see our sister site Travel Is Safe.

Frequently Asked Questions