Altitude
Since many of the mountains in the Pikes Peak region rise to 14,000 feet and most attractions on average are located at 7,000 feet above sea level, the altitude can produce some unusual sensations. The symptoms for altitude illness include a headache, touch of nausea, feeling unusually tired, or experiencing shortness of breath. One of the most important things visitors to the Pikes Peak region should know about altitude illness is that it almost is totally preventable and can be significantly minimized by following these simple guidelines while traveling:

• Exercise in moderation the first few days.
• Drink more water than usual since your body will dehydrate more quickly.
• Reduce alcohol intake, which has a greater effect at this altitude.
• Eat food high in carbohydrates: grains, pasta, fruit and vegetables.
• Avoid salty foods.

Altitude illness is usually a minor problem and preventable -- most visitors generally feel more comfortable within 48 hours-- however, it can be a serious problem if the symptoms are ignored.

Clothing
Cool clothing is proper dress for summer days, however, we suggest carrying a light jacket or windbreaker for the evening. Layering your clothes which allows you to add or remove layers is the best way to cope with changing weather conditions. Remember, Pikes Peak Country weather can change day-to-day or even hour-to-hour,so be prepared with the proper clothes for any type of weather condition.

Ultraviolet Rays
Ultraviolet rays are more powerful at the higher elevations of Pikes Peak Country. A good pair of sunglasses which not only cut the glare but filter the ultraviolet rays is strongly recommended. Also, regardless of your skin color or complexion, everyone needsto wear a protective sunscreen even on overcast days when ultraviolet rays can penetrate cloud cover.

Weather
In summer, visitors can escape from hot, sticky conditions found elsewhere, to the low humidity and highs in the 80s. Afternoon thunderstorms, usually lasting less than an hour, leave the region cool and provide a cleansing effect rather than pushing humidity levels up. Warm days and cool nights usher in springtime. Pockets of yellow aspen trees make fall a refreshing season to visit the region. Pikes Peak Country is located on the eastern slope of the Rocky Mountains. The mountains to the west and the Monument Divide to the north protect the area from harsh and snowy winters. When it does snow, it rarely stays on the ground more than a few days with average temperatures hovering in the 40 to 50-degree range. Remember that temperatures at the summit of Pikes Peak are usually 30-40 degrees below those measured at the base of the mountain throughout the year.