Before You Visit Crested Butte
Altitude Awareness
Upon arriving in Crested Butte, you may experience some ailments associated with high altitude sickness if you are traveling from lower elevations. While most people do not experience any symptoms besides shortness of breath there first day or two, others may feel altitude sickness while visiting Crested Butte. Downtown is at 8,885 ft and the base area of the ski-mountain is at 9,375 ft and it is not uncommon to experience an adjustment period where a visitor may experience fatigue, shortness of breath, sleeplessness, and other general discomforts. Below are a few suggestions to minimize high altitude sickness and ensure you get the most out of your visit to Crested Butte.
Hydrate. Dehydration is common at high altitudes–You actually lose most of your hydration through breathing out tiny amounts of water vapor each time you exhale. So pack a water bottle if possible.
Monitor alcohol consumption. If you choose to have libations, remember that at this elevation, you are already most likely dehydrated (for the above mentioned reason). This is the reason why alcohol has a more profound effect on someone at elevation. Your tolerance in the mountains is much lower than back at home in lower elevations.
Pace yourself the first day. Do not be overcome by the wealth of mountain terrain. If you are not used to high altitudes, use the first day to acclimate your body to the decrease in oxygen levels.
Hydrate your body with electrolytes. Acli-Mate Mountain Sport Drink, Pedialyte, Gatorade, and Powerade are all great options to aid in the prevention of altitude sickness.
Groceries in Gunnison
We highly recommend our guests stop at City Market in Gunnison to purchase groceries for their stay prior to their arrival in Crested Butte. We do have a small grocery store in Crested Butte called Clark’s that is a great but the selection is limited and more expensive compared to City Market. It’s about a 50 minute drive from City Market in Gunnison to 2255 Wildcat in Crested Butte. Address of City Market: 880 N Main St
