How to Adjust to Altitude Changes (and Not Get Sick)
There’s no need to end the fun and leave the mountain to alleviate your altitude sickness – this handy guide will help! Here’s how to adjust to altitude changes so you can focus on enjoying your trip. You don’t have to hit the slopes or visit Peru to start feeling the pain from altitude sickness. Whether it’s shortness of breath, nausea, or exhaustion, it can totally wreck your trip. Here’s how you can adjust to altitude quickly and safely, so you can get on to having an amazing trip. Let’s start with the basics: What is Altitude Sickness? As you’re going higher in elevation, you start taking less oxygen per breath – this causes altitude sickness. The process starts at around 5,000 feet, and as you go higher (about 9,800 feet), the odds of experiencing altitude sickness increase substantially. At that altitude, about 75% of people will feel some symptoms. If you’ve never experienced a substantial gain in elevation, chances are you’ll notice some changes in how you’re feeling. Thankfully, there are ways to prepare your body for adjusting smoothly. One thing to note: it’s not just going to these heights that causes the problem – it’s caused more by the speed of ascent. The best way to avoid altitude sickness is to gain elevation slowly, which allows your body to acclimate to the change in elevation. It can take your body days or even a few weeks to fully acclimatize, depending on a few factors: How high you go Your genetics How in shape you are How quickly you gained altitude Fortunately, serious symptoms like High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) or High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE) only happen at extremely high altitudes, far higher than most people will ever go. You are more likely going to experience milder symptoms such as shortness of breath, headaches, and other annoying (but certainly not debilitating) symptoms. Here’s how you can reduce even those inconveniences. How to Adjust to Altitude 1. Drink Lots of Water As you gain altitude, your body tends to lose water and salt faster than you’re used to. When combined with the dry air and physical activity a trip to Colorado usually involves, it’s no wonder dehydration is such a problem. Many of the symptoms of altitude sickness mirror those of dehydration, so consistently drinking water throughout the day goes a long way to getting you acclimatized quickly. 2. Reduce Your Exercise As you gain elevation, the air gets thinner so each breath you draw contains less oxygen. Over time, your body strengthens and adjusts to accommodate this, which is why endurance athletes often train at extremely high altitudes in places such as Peru or Nepal. In the short term, however, your cardiovascular system is working harder. Each breath contains less oxygen, so each heartbeat contains less oxygen, making your heart beat faster. In other words, your body is working harder to do the same thing you would do at sea level. In order to give your body time to adjust, it’s best to take it easy for a few days when you first get to 5,000+ feet. After a few days of moderate activity, you’ll be ready to ramp back up to full throttle. 3. Get Enough Sleep One of the symptoms of altitude sickness is insomnia, so it can be hard to get enough rest. However, a good night’s sleep can do wonders to help you kick the problem. One common suggestion is descending to a lower elevation (if possible) to sleep at night. If this isn’t an option, it’s best just to push on and get through the first few days of acclimation. Don’t underestimate the power of a little cat nap if you can sneak one in during your day! 4. Limit Your Alcohol Intake Alcohol hits a lot harder when you’re trying to acclimatize, so the best thing you can do is take it easy and not drink your first few nights in town. Alcohol often replicates many of the symptoms of altitude sickness (nausea, dizziness, fatigue, light-headedness) so it’s a bit like doubling down on your body in terms of a negative impact. Another reason to lay off on drinking is because of the general challenge it is to stay hydrated while acclimatizing to a higher altitude. Alcohol dehydrates you, so consuming it only worsens your hydration situation. Your safest option is waiting 48 hours before you hit the bars. After this period, you should be acclimatized enough to handle the effects of drinking at altitude. 5. Increase Your Potassium Levels Potassium loss is a pretty standard symptom if you’re feeling dehydrated from the dry air at elevation. It can be a major pain – literally. Muscle cramping is commonly associated with low potassium levels. Fortunately, it’s an easy nutrient to replace. Foods like bananas, avocados, spinach, yogurt, and kale are all high in potassium so getting enough without supplements shouldn’t be too hard (even for the pickiest of picky eaters). 6. Protect Yourself From the Sun At altitude, the air is thinner and as a result, there’s more exposure to the sun. Denver, for example, with an altitude of only one mile (5,280 feet), receives 25% less natural protection from the sun than you’d find at sea level. With this in mind, sun protection is an absolute must: Carry and use sunscreen at all times (the higher SPF, the better!) Use lip balm with SPF in it – don’t be the one to forget about your lips Invest in a comfy pair of sunglasses you can wear all day Get a wide brimmed sunhat that covers your face, neck, and ears 7. Consume More Calories Because of the reduced number of oxygen molecules in the air, your body works much harder to keep everything working. As such, it needs a lot more fuel. A high-calorie diet combining complex carbohydrates, proteins, and fats will help keep you full and keep your body running smoothly. Surprisingly one
The Ultimate Guide to Camping Near Buena Vista, Colorado
Looking for camping near Buena Vista? You’ve come to the right place! Nestled in the heart of the Colorado Rockies, Buena Vista is a charming town known for its stunning natural beauty and its reputation as an outdoor adventure hub (checkout Browns Canyon white water rafting). With its proximity to the Arkansas River and the surrounding mountains, Buena Vista offers a plethora of camping options, from established campgrounds to dispersed camping areas. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat or an adrenaline-filled adventure, Buena Vista has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll explore the best camping near Buena Vista, including dispersed camping near Buena Vista, CO and Arkansas River camping. Camping near Buena Vista 1. Arrowhead Point Campground and RV Park Located just south of Buena Vista, Arrowhead Point Campground and RV Park is nestled in a picturesque setting with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It offers a variety of camping options, including RV sites, tent sites, and cabins. The campground features amenities such as full hookups, hot showers, laundry facilities, a swimming pool, a playground, and a camp store. It’s a great choice for families and groups looking for a well-equipped campground. 2. Cottonwood Lake Campground Located just west of Buena Vista, Cottonwood Lake Campground offers a serene camping experience. With picturesque views of the lake and the surrounding peaks, this campground is a popular choice for anglers and nature lovers. Amenities include picnic tables, fire rings, vault toilets, and potable water. 3. Chalk Creek Campground Situated along Chalk Creek, this campground offers a tranquil setting with stunning mountain vistas. It features spacious campsites, fire pits, picnic tables, and vault toilets. Enjoy fishing in the creek or simply relax and take in the natural beauty that surrounds you. 4. Mt. Princeton RV Park For those looking for a more comfortable camping experience, Mt. Princeton RV Park offers full-hookup RV sites and tent camping options. The park boasts amenities such as hot showers, laundry facilities, a playground, and a game room. It’s an excellent basecamp for exploring the area’s attractions. 5. Snowy Peaks RV Park If you’re looking for cushy camping near Buena Vista with modern amenities, Snowy Peaks RV Park is an excellent choice. It offers full-hookup RV sites, tent sites, and even cozy cabins for rent. The park provides amenities like hot showers, laundry facilities, a playground, a dog park, and a camp store. With its convenient location near Buena Vista, you can easily explore the town’s attractions and outdoor activities. Dispersed Camping near Buena Vista, CO Buena Vista offers plenty of dispersed camping opportunities in the nearby national forests. Please remember to follow regulations and practice Leave No Trace principles. Some popular dispersed camping areas include: Fourmile Recreation Area Baldwin Lake Cottonwood Pass Road Arkansas River Camping The Arkansas River is a renowned destination for water enthusiasts. Several campgrounds provide easy access to the river for fishing, kayaking, and rafting adventures. Ruby Mountain Campground: Located near the town of Nathrop, Ruby Mountain Campground offers riverfront Arkansas River camping spots. It’s a great option for rafters and anglers seeking an exciting riverfront experience. The most scenic Arkansas River camping spots are best accessed via raft during a multi-day rafting trip. Wilderness Aware Rafting offers unforgettable multi-day rafting adventures, ranging from 2 to 5 days, where you can immerse yourself in the river’s splendor and enjoy camping along its banks. Arkansas River camping just doesn’t get better than that! It’s true that to discover the best camping near Buena Vista, you’ll have to take the road less traveled. And by road we mean… river! Wilderness Aware offers multi-day Browns Canyon rafting trips that combine camping with thrilling rafting adventures. Our expert guides will ensure that your experience is filled with excitement, natural beauty, and unforgettable Arkansas River camping. Discover the wild side of Buena Vista by experiencing a Buena Vista rafting trip with Wilderness Aware!
Five Reasons Why You Should Take Your Family Rafting ASAP
Now that the river’s flow has dipped from high water, it’s the ideal time to bring the kids! From bonding with your loved ones to experiencing the thrill of the rapids, we’ll show you why it’s the perfect time to plan your family rafting trip. Let’s dive in and discover the excitement waiting for you on the water! Top 5 Reasons to Take Your Family Rafting Experience teamwork Gain a love of the outdoors Develop self-confidence Learn about the history of the area Develop a whole new cool vocabulary, like chickie pail and PFDs. Bonding Beyond Boundaries Rafting isn’t just about navigating the rapids; it’s about navigating the bonds within your family. Imagine the joy of sharing laughter and thrills as you conquer the waters together. This reason is all about strengthening connections and creating those heartwarming family moments that last a lifetime. Age Generally, trips are designed for ages 4 and up. But, this depends on water levels and the class of rapids. Each of our Colorado rafting trips has a different minimum age that is related to how challenging the whitewater is, so check detailed trip info to see if your kid can come along. Safety Whitewater rafting has inherent risks, but the risk is greatly reduced if you work with a reputable rafting company, like Wilderness Aware Rafting. Every one of our guides undergoes more training than is required in Colorado to ensure that they know how to lead a safe trip, and what to do if anything goes wrong. Choose the Right River The Arkansas River is ideal for families! Beginning high in the Colorado Rockies near the Continental Divide, the Arkansas River delivers more than 100 miles of whitewater – making it the most popular rafting river in the West. The Arkansas River’s appeal lies in its wide variety of trips and easy accessibility. Embark on Family Adventure with Lower Browns Canyon Half-Day Trip Discover the thrill of white water rafting tailored for beginners and families on Lower Browns Canyon Half-Day Trip. Starting downstream of challenging rapids, this excursion is perfect for children as young as four, grandparents, and rafting novices. The fast-paced river guarantees just enough excitement, offering some of Colorado’s best family rafting. Enjoy scenic views of Collegiate Peaks and lush pastures, all while creating unforgettable memories. Our Lower Browns Canyon trip brings the joy of rafting without intimidating rapids, making it the ideal adventure for every family member. Take a short drive from Denver or Breckenridge and experience the best beginner and family whitewater rafting in Colorado! Do you have older kiddos? Pro tip: book an overnight Colorado rafting trip and get the bonus of sleeping under the stars. Being on the river together is an incredible bonding experience that also brings lots of smiles. This trip is perfect for ages 8+. At Wilderness Aware, we’ve been the heartbeat of Colorado white water rafting adventures since 1976, and we’re thrilled to have shared the exhilarating world of family rafting with you. As the premier outfitter in Buena Vista, we understand the transformative power of the rapids—the rush, the laughter, and the shared triumphs that families experience on our guided trips. We invite you to join us on the river and create your own unforgettable moments. From our family to yours, we can’t wait to welcome you aboard for a Colorado white water rafting adventure that goes beyond the ordinary. Seize the opportunity, make a splash, and let the memories flow!
Dolores River Flow Outlook – 2023 Boating
If you’re a fan of remote, uncrowded river trips, the Dolores River needs to be high on your bucket list. However, due to low Dolores River flow water levels, the river has been unavailable to rafting for several years. But with recent heavy snowfall in the San Juan Mountain Range, the Dolores River has once again opened to boaters for the 2023 season! Join us as we explore the Dolores River and provide everything you need to know to plan your next adventure. Dolores River Boating Outlook Heavy snowfall in the region has raised the Dolores River’s water levels, making it possible for boaters of all types, from rafts to kayaks, to return to the river in 2023. The Dolores River flows are projected to be around 2000 – 3000 cubic feet per second (cfs) for most of the season, with peak flows in May and tapering off in June. The Dolores river rafting and kayaking season is expected to run from late April through mid-June or longer. History of the Dolores River Canyon The Dolores River canyon runs through Colorado and Utah, originating in the San Juan Mountains and ultimately flowing into the Colorado River. The river was named by Spanish explorers, who called it “El Rio de Nuestra Senora de los Dolores,” which translates to “The River of Our Lady of Sorrows.” The Dolores River is also known for the McPhee Dam, which was constructed in the 1980s to provide water for nearby towns and agricultural operations. The dam has had a significant impact on the river’s flow, as it diverts a significant amount of water from the river for storage. Highlights of a Dolores River trip A trip down the Dolores River Canyon is a true wilderness adventure. Boaters can expect to encounter thrilling rapids, stunning scenery, and a variety of wildlife with three sections distinctly different from each other. The river begins its journey to the Colorado River just below McFee Reservoir and enters Ponderosa Gorge defined by its dense Pine and Douglas Fir forest, steeper river gradient and the infamous Snaggletooth rapid. Along with the spectacular natural environment, the Gorge features interesting human history with ancient Anasazi ruins that can be explored along the river. After a 3 day journey, the river changes character in Slick rock Canyon or Little Glen Canyon, which is reminiscent of the now flooded Glen Canyon under Lake Powell with its stunning sandstone geology, and tamer waters. This section of river is being studied as a potential wilderness area featuring numerous side canyons. Opportunities to hike and discover petroglyphs along canyon walls provide evidence of the Anasazi and Ute people who lived in these areas long before modern day settlers. The final section of the Dolores from Bedrock to the confluence with the Colorado River features bigger rapids including Stateline – a long continuous class IV rapid that raises the excitement level! Amazing side canyon hikes are prevalent and rival those found in the Grand Canyon. All three sections together comprise one of the longest stretches of continuous whitewater rafting in the continental United States with 170 miles of river. This execration which can take 10 day trip through the Dolores River’s Gateway Canyon that many compare to a trip down the Grand Canyon. Planning Your Trip Wilderness Aware is excited to announce Dolores River rafting trips are now open for booking for the 2023 season from now until mid-June. Our experienced guides will lead you on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure down the Dolores River, providing all the necessary equipment and expertise, including outstanding meals and riverside camping along the way. We offer Dolores River multi-day trips of 3, 6 or up to 10 days, so you can choose the option that works best for you. If you’re interested in embarking on a private boating trip, it’s important to note that a Dolores River permit is required for any launch on the Dolores River. Permits are issued through a lottery system and can be obtained through the Bureau of Land Management. Be sure to plan ahead, as Dolores River permits can be difficult to obtain. The Dolores River is an incredible wilderness adventure that should not be missed. This hidden gem of a river is on par with some of the most popular whitewater rivers in Arizona and Idaho. With the recent increase in Dolores River flow water levels, the river has once again opened for rafting in 2023. Learn more about Dolores River rafting and book your adventure with Wilderness Aware Rafting to experience the thrill of the rapids, the beauty of the scenery, and the peace of mind that comes with having an experienced guide leading the way. We look forward to sharing this incredible river with you!
Spring Multi-Day Trips
Here at Wilderness Aware, we offer a variety of multi-day rafting trips. If you’re unfamiliar with our multi-day options, let us introduce you. Inclusive to all skill levels and ages, our multi-day trips are next level. Set across six different rivers in two states, rafting trips are first and foremost about time in the water. Our skilled guides run through a safety and gear check, then get you straight to the water to begin your whitewater adventure. The day doesn’t stop once you get off the boat; here’s a look at what to expect on a multi-day trip. Camping in Comfort We fill one of our rafts, lovingly named the “Pig Rig,” to the brim with all the supplies you could need on your campout. This big rig coasts down the river before your trip begins, and we set up a fully equipped campsite. Expect access to a bathroom system set up for your privacy and needs. We also set up a fully equipped kitchen serving everything but your typical camp food. Dining in Style What kind of food, you ask? We have fun creating our camp menus, and our guests rave about the results. Depending on the day, you can expect things like spinach artichoke dip as an appetizer, salad, chicken, steak, or salmon on the grill, roast veggies, dutch oven lasagna, cheesecake for dessert, and tea and coffee after dinner. In the morning, wake up to an omelet bar, bacon, sausage, and hot coffee. Chill Vibes Our signature setup of comfy chairs around a cozy campfire awaits after a long day on the river. This is a place to talk, share stories, play games, relax, and enjoy the view. Meal prep and dishwashing are all taken care of, making it the ultimate wind down after a day of rafting. Trips range in location, price, and number of days. The best way to choose the right package for you is to read about each of our multi-day trips. Claimed to be “one of the best times of my life” from a happy guest, try an adrenaline-filled multi-day rafting trip this spring and see for yourself.
2023 Snowpack
As the summer months approach, many Coloradans are anxiously awaiting the start of whitewater rafting season. Colorado’s snowpack on surrounding mountains holds promising predictions for river conditions, despite droughts in recent years. This is good news for rafters. Each year, Colorado snow plays an important role in water levels in the Colorado River systems. Wyoming and Utah have also had significant snowfall this year, which could bring additional support to the Colorado River basin. Many mountains surrounding the Dolores, Gunnison, and North Platte have above-average snowpack levels, which could lead to excellent rapids come spring. While the Arkansas River currently has slightly below-average snowpack, snowstorms are still in the forecast. As we head into the season, we’ll be able to enjoy a few more weeks of snowboarding before switching out to rafts and kayaks. With a promising season ahead, book your trips now so they don’t fill up. Check out some of our videos of rafting the Gunnison, as it’s an experience you have to see to fully believe. Our knowledgeable guides will not only keep you safe but provide an entertaining and unforgettable experience.
Play Hard, Snack Hard.
In a quick departure from our regular programming, we bring you a compilation of ultimate travel snacks to take with you on the road or in the raft. These snack ideas travel well and offer a little more than the utility Cliff Bar stuck to the bottom of your bag for months. Mix and match or put your own spin on these suggestions: Bada Bean Bada Boom Roasted beans in a bag? Are you sure? Fear not, these little beans are delightfully crunchy, salty, and tasty. These packaged beans can take a beating and still hold up for an unexpectedly satisfying snack. Patagonia Spicy Mango Sweet and spicy, these ethically sourced mango bits are the warhorse of travel snacks, offering high fiber and Vitamins A & C. Clif Espresso Bar Tired of the usual Clif Bar? The crunch of espresso beans in this version adds intrigue and a caffeinated boost to the regular Clif Bar experience. Epic Beef Jerky / Kettle Pickle Chips It’s a hamburger, really. Eat them together or on their own for a solid snack. For the Cooler Whether you’ve got the Coleman, the Yeti, or the Dometic, push your cooler snacks further than a couple of cold beers. Throw in some hard-boiled eggs, prosciutto-wrapped mozzarella sticks, and any cheese sticks, or go wild and make some ginger scallion noodles in a reusable tub. Banana Bread Another hard-working, potassium-enriched snack that not only satisfies but uses up all those spotted bananas on your counter. YumEarth Licorice These gummy snacks are organic and sophisticated, with simple ingredients that satisfy just the same. Instant Coffee I see you cringing Aeropress users. It may be low-brow, but nothing beats instant coffee when you’re tired, and your bones are aching. Nora Tempura Seaweed Have you ever had tempura seaweed? One bite of these and you’ll be ordering them by case. Thank them later for replenishing vitamins A, B6, B12, protein, iron, and fiber. LMNT packets Use these electrolyte packets to both hydrate and replace salt.
What Guides Do in the Off-Season
River rafting may be the ultimate seasonal job, but by nature, it will sadly close at the end of each summer. What happens to guides when the season is over? Luckily, rafting guides are as resilient as they come and do a number of different jobs throughout the year. They vary from person to person, and we love seeing what each individual brings to the job each year. Here’s a glimpse of what some off-season gigs look like: International Rafting When it’s cold in one place, it’s warm in another. Some guides devote themselves to rafting year-round, chasing rapids internationally. For those with the means, this is an incredible opportunity to raft around the world. Study Raft in the summer, study in the winter. Whether on your college break or taking a course, the winter months give you ample time to focus on that second or third skill. Switch Seasons Trade in the raft for a snowboard. Many rafting guides are active and rugged by nature and can easily swap equipment when the seasons change. If you’re driven by the snow but lack the experience to instruct, many resorts have seasonal jobs available too. If you can’t be in the snow, at least be near it. Restaurant Gigs Bartending, anyone? Bartending and serving is a tried and true way to fund your dreams. There is almost always seasonal work at restaurants and resorts. Stagger seasons so there is always work between the winter and summer months. Volunteer Work Volunteer in another country–preferably by some rapids. Volunteer work is always a great way to get a foot in the door to an established passion in an unfamiliar place. Teach English If you are a native English speaker, teaching English abroad is a popular way to see and visit another country. Along with volunteering, you never know what opportunity could lead to another.
Arkansas River Off-Season Activities
Fishing The waters of the Arkansas may be too shallow to raft in October, but lower levels can make for some great end of the season fishing. Check the weather and, if the temperature permits, try fishing upstream of Salida. Or, if you’re unfamiliar with the area, find a local outfitter to guide you to the good spots. Brown trout and Kokanee salmon will be spawning, with Rainbow trout, Cutthroat trout and Northern pike not far behind. Give late season fishing a try and you’re likely to have a stretch of the river all to yourself. Hiking Check out some of the best trails in the Arkansas River Valley while the temperatures are cool and the sun is still shining. The 485-mile Colorado Trail passes right through Salida and Buena Vista, delivering breathtaking views along the way. While you may not get to hiking all 485 miles of it, it is broken into segments that can be hiked at your own pace. Wildlife Spotting Set out with your camera and see if you can see some of Colorado’s bighorn sheep or a herd of pronghorns. Resembling an antelope, the pronghorn’s closest relative is actually the giraffe. These animals are a true Colorado sight to see. Bighorn sheep are an equally impressive sight and the state mammal of Colorado! A zoom lens will help here, as these animals like steep cliffs. Keep your distance when viewing any wildlife and maintain respect for these beautiful animals. Stargazing Find a spot along the Arkansas River away from the city lights and watch as the night’s display of stars emerge. The Stone Bridge river access north of Salida is a great spot to guarantee a dark sky. Be sure to check the weather, as a cloudy sky will ruin even the darkest spot for stargazing.
Planning in the Off-Season for Effortless Fun When It’s On.
In between the hiking, mountain biking, skiing and adventuring in the Colorado rafting off-season, plan an epic whitewater trip now and skip the stress next summer. A little planning now can lead to an effortless adventure on the water in the upcoming season. Choose the best time and location and we’ll do the rest. You might even find you have the time to knock out more than one river. Pick Your Friends, Then Pick a River There are more than six rivers to choose from in Colorado and Arizona. Likely your location will determine which river you choose, but with enough time and planning, you can make any river your adventure destination. At 120 miles southwest of Denver, the Arkansas River is a great option if coming in from the Front Range. It’s also suitable for a variety of skill levels, making it ideal for young children and expert adults. Check out our site for detailed overviews of the all the rivers to choose from, with a breakdown of length and difficulty level. Take the time now to create a successful adventure next summer. Pick a Time When rafting, it’s important to know conditions. Rafting season runs from April to August with varying temperatures and rapids throughout the summer. June holds its reign as the most adventurous month as warmer weather and snow melt makes for big rapids and big adventures. For a calmer ride, plan to set out in July and August, but always check before you go as weather and snow can cause cancellations. Know Your Gear The month you choose will determine your gear. Wetsuits are available to rent in the colder months, as well as booties and paddle jackets. We provide all rafting equipment including ponchos, wool sweaters and waterproof storage for personal items. It’s recommended you also bring your own warmer clothes for after rafting in the colder months. Sunscreen, shorts, swim suits, sunglasses and a water bottle are essentials you don’t want to be without in the hot summer months. Read more on our FAQ page for other helpful tips to prepare for your trip.
