Living at Altitude -- even just for a weekend

High Altitude Tips

Be aware of year-around altitude effects, especially for the young and old

Like many of our guests, you probably came from an area where elevations are very low. Mammoth's high elevations mean thinner atmosphere, less oxygen and lower humidity.  Plus, our weather is unpredictable. 

​But we all come to Mammoth to play hard. This combination of altitude change and high activity level can result in altitude sickness, sunburn or even serious injury.

This is especially true of the very young and very old. We've had guests in the past who brought elderly family members who struggled, even while resting, in the lower-oxygen environment. 

Here are a few tips and suggestions for staying healthy while enjoying your adventure, refined, in Mammoth. ​

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What to do:

Know yourself:

• ​Give yourself some time to adjust to the elevation before you hit the slopes or trails. But if you experience symptoms like as headache, insomnia and/or fatigue, you may have a mild form of altitude sickness.  Realize that these symptoms are a warning to decrease your activity level.  If symptoms persist or begin to worry you, you can reach Mammoth Hospital 24/7 at 760-934-3311. You can reach the Sierra Park Family Medicine Clinic from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Mon-Sat 760-934-2551. 

Eat lightly and drink plenty of liquids:

• Its easy to become dehydrated at high altitude so drink plenty of water and other fluids (8 to 10 glasses daily).  You should also avoid drinking alcoholic beverages for the first 24 hours of your stay.

Protect your eyes:

• The surface of the snow or water can act as a reflector of UV rays and can generate damaging UV exposure to the eyes. Be sure to wear UV sunglasses or goggles--and make sure your kids do, too. 

Be ready for activity:

• Drink plenty of liquids prior to any activity.  Performing a few stretches before engaging in strenuous physical activity can help your muscles respond to the challenge.

Avoid Sunburn:

• In Mammoth, the thinner atmosphere provides less protection from the sun's UV rays, so use a sunblock lotion with an SPF of 30 or more. Be careful during Spring skiing, when sunburn happens so quicly! Be especially careful with children and apply a generous amount of sunscreen to both you and your children prior to any outdoor activities.  Be sure to reapply at least every four hours.  If you'resweating or getting wet from the snow/water, apply it more often.

Use Alcohol in Moderation:

• It's wise not to drink alcohol at lunch if you plan to return to the slopes, lake or trail afterwards.  Most ski accidents occur in the afternoon as muscles begin to fatigue.  The effects of muscle fatigue are increased by the consumption of alcohol.

Keep Warm:

• ​There's an old saying in Mammoth: "If you don't like the weather, wait ten minutes...it's sure to change."  At this elevation, the weather can change quickly regardless of the season. Remember:
  
  • Children are not always aware that they are becoming too cold.  Watch your kids for red noses and red ears.  If your child shows symptoms of being too cold, bring her in from the cold, remove wet clothes and warm her gently but immediately. 
    
  • Moderation is a must.  Take frequent breaks from the cold or heat.
    
  • Layer your clothes, no matter what the season.  A t-shirt, wool sweater, nylon windbreaker with a hood and a bottle of water are basics for just about any summer activity.  Winter sports enthusiasts should wear warm, water-resistant clothing and goggles or sunglasses with adequate UV protection.  

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​What to know:

Know your ability:

• Moderate your level of activity according to your physical condition. Skiing, hiking, snowboarding and mountain biking require strength and flexibility for control.  The more control you have, the safer you will be.
  
• If you are an inexperienced skier or first time snowboarder, take a lesson.  It doesn't cost much and could make the difference between an enjoyable day on the slopes and an unexpected trip to the ER.
  
• The Mammoth Welcome Center is a great place to get trail maps and great advice.

Know the conditions:

• Be aware of the unpredictability of Mammoth conditions. Wind can blow the powder snow, exposing an unexpected patch of ice that can send your skis or snowboard sailing.  Hikers and mountain bikers should keep in mind that creek crossings during spring runoff can become impassable due to high water levels. Hot, sunny days can quickly turn to cold and wet if a storm blows in.

Know your equipment:

• Prior to any activity, have all of your equipment checked.  Be sure everything is compatible and is properly adjusted for ability, height and weight.  This applies to skis, bikes, backpacks and climbing equipment.
  
• Elements of risk are involved in any sport...using the proper safety equipment such as pads, wrist guards, helmets, etc., can help reduce the risks.
  

Know the terrain:

• Take time to learn your way around the ski slopes.  Review the trail map.  Beware of the ski slope rating system.  A black diamond run at one ski resort may have a different degree of difficulty than at another ski area.  
  
• For your convenience, the ski areas provide Ski Hosts who can provide information on the degree of difficulty of the ski runs. They're the ones hanging around in the yellow Mammoth snow suits.
• If you're hiking, download the "Get it on Here" app to accurately for conditions, terrain and ability. Be aware of the weather forecast and how to get help if you need it.