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Just Said Yes August 2021

Colorado altitude sickness?!

Kelly, on January 8, 2020 at 3:56 PM Posted in Planning 0 7

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We are planning a small destination wedding to Colorado and currently live in Ohio. I just recently became aware of altitude sickness from other forum posts and am now concerned. We haven't booked anything for the wedding yet and while it's my dream location, I'm not sure if we should avoid it because someone in my immediate family has diabetes and isn't in fit shape. I'm not sure how the altitude will affect them if we just have a ceremony in Breckenridge or Denver area but no physical activities in the mountains. Recommendations and experiences?

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7 Comments

Latest activity by Avery, on January 8, 2020 at 5:27 PM

Master May 2019
Cyndy · on January 8, 2020 at 4:00 PM
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If that is your dream wedding you should do it. Make that person aware of altitude sickness so they can prepare themselves. Drinking lots of water will help. Also getting there a few days early to let your body adjust makes a difference. Having traveled to that area many times it is a real thing and it’s good you are aware of it ahead of time. Good luck.
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Dedicated October 2021
Emily · on January 8, 2020 at 4:02 PM
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Hi there! Colorado Native here! Yes altitude sickness is a thing here BUT as long as your guests stayed hydrated and don't over exert themselves they should be over it in a few hours. The longest I have seen it last is 2 days. SO just recommend they allow for plenty of travel days and drink LOTS of water!
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Master October 2019
Meghan · on January 8, 2020 at 4:08 PM
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I just got back from Denver a few months ago. We also ventured out and did some hiking and went up Pikes Peak. None of us got altitude sickness. I don't think it is super common. I say plan your dream wedding!!
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Dedicated October 2021
Michelle · on January 8, 2020 at 4:08 PM
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Denver native here. Like the previous posters said, yes it is a thing, but if you stay hydrated, you’ll be fine 😊
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Legend July 2019
MrsD · on January 8, 2020 at 4:23 PM
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I wouldn't worry. Just warn people & maybe help them out with welcome bags (water bottles, advil, etc.). Breckenridge is about 4,000 feet higher than Denver. Just advise family members to not do anything crazy (running, heavy workouts, drinking too much) since they aren't used to the altitude. We had lots of out of state guests at our wedding (6,500 feet) and we had welcome bags to help then talked about it in the welcome pamphlet.
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Master November 2019
Mrs. S · on January 8, 2020 at 4:41 PM
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I moved from NC to Denver. I feel a little weak for an hour after I get off the plane and that’s it. Nothing to worry about.
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Savvy July 2020
Avery · on January 8, 2020 at 5:27 PM
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There is a big difference between being affected by the altitude and actually getting sick. Most people feel the affects but don't get sick. Meaning, getting tired easily or out of breath just going up a flight of stairs. These are VERY common and as most people have said, drink water before you hop on the flight here and continue to drink more water than you normally would. DOn't plan any big hikes and they should be fine. It's worth noting that Denver is 5280-ish and the mountains are often around 10K. That's a huge difference for someone coming from sea level. I wouldn't let the altitude deter you. Maybe you could have a spot on your wedding web page that goes over preparing for the altitude.
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