Vail Village: Altitude Sun Hiding Dangers for Skiers?
By Franklin Everett ShawThe crisp mountain air bites at your cheeks, a welcome contrast to the sun blazing off the freshly groomed slopes. Vail Village shimmers, a postcard-perfect scene of winter bliss. But beneath the surface of this idyllic setting lurks a double threat: altitude sickness and the intense solar radiation amplified by the snow. Ignoring these dangers can quickly turn your dream ski trip into a miserable experience. This isn’t just about slapping on some sunscreen; it’s about understanding the unique challenges Vail presents and proactively mitigating the risks.
Vail Village sits at a base elevation of 8,150 feet, with the summit reaching a lung-busting 11,570 feet. At these altitudes, the air is thinner, meaning less oxygen is available with each breath. This can lead to altitude sickness, a condition that ranges from mild discomfort to life-threatening pulmonary or cerebral edema. The key is acclimatization. Don’t fly into Denver and immediately hit the slopes. Spend a day or two at a lower elevation, like Boulder (5,430 feet) or even Colorado Springs (6,035 feet), to allow your body to adjust.
Hydration is paramount. Drink significantly more water than you normally would. Avoid sugary drinks and excessive caffeine, as they can dehydrate you. Consider electrolyte-rich beverages to replenish lost minerals. A common mistake is waiting until you feel thirsty to drink. By then, you’re already behind. Carry a water bottle with you and sip consistently throughout the day.
Diet also plays a role. Avoid heavy, greasy foods that can be difficult to digest at altitude. Opt for lighter, carbohydrate-rich meals. Some people find that eating foods high in potassium, like bananas, helps with acclimatization. Avoid alcohol for the first 24-48 hours. It can exacerbate the symptoms of altitude sickness and impair your judgment on the slopes.
Recognize the symptoms of altitude sickness. These can include headache, nausea, fatigue, dizziness, and shortness of breath. If you experience any of these, descend to a lower elevation immediately. Don’t try to “tough it out.” Ignoring the symptoms can lead to serious complications. Vail has medical facilities equipped to treat altitude sickness, but prevention is always the best medicine.
Consider taking acetazolamide (Diamox), a prescription medication that can help prevent altitude sickness. Talk to your doctor about whether it’s right for you. Start taking it a day or two before you arrive in Vail. Be aware of potential side effects, such as tingling in the fingers and toes.
Now, let’s address the sun. The sun’s rays are more intense at higher altitudes, and the snow reflects up to 80% of UV radiation. This means you’re getting hit with a double dose of sun exposure. Sunburn can occur much faster than you might expect.
Choose a high-SPF sunscreen, at least SPF 30, and apply it liberally and frequently. Don’t skimp! Pay particular attention to your face, ears, and neck. Reapply every two hours, or more often if you’re sweating or skiing in wet snow. A common mistake is applying sunscreen only once in the morning. The protection wears off throughout the day.
Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Water-resistant or sweat-resistant formulas are ideal for skiing. Consider using a lip balm with SPF to protect your lips from sunburn and chapping.
Protect your eyes with high-quality ski goggles or sunglasses that block 100% of UV rays. Snow blindness, a painful condition caused by UV exposure to the cornea, is a real risk. Make sure your goggles fit properly and provide adequate coverage. Don’t wear contact lenses if you’re prone to dry eyes, as the dry mountain air can exacerbate the problem.
Be aware of the signs of sun damage. These include sunburn, redness, blistering, and dry, chapped skin. If you experience any of these, get out of the sun immediately and apply a soothing lotion or cream.
Even on cloudy days, UV radiation can penetrate the clouds. Don’t let overcast skies lull you into a false sense of security. Continue to wear sunscreen and eye protection.
Consider wearing a neck gaiter or balaclava to protect your face and neck from the sun and wind. These accessories can also help to retain moisture and prevent chapping.
A lesser-known tip: be mindful of medications that can increase sun sensitivity. Certain antibiotics, acne medications, and even some over-the-counter drugs can make you more susceptible to sunburn. Check the labels of any medications you’re taking and take extra precautions if necessary.
Finally, listen to your body. If you’re feeling unwell, take a break. Don’t push yourself too hard, especially on your first day. Vail is a challenging environment, but with proper preparation and awareness, you can enjoy all that it has to offer without compromising your health. Remember, a little planning goes a long way in ensuring a safe and memorable ski trip.