Northern Arizona University

 

 

Preventative Actions

1.  Stay hydrated. We will supply bottled water—drink it!

2.  Moderate your alcohol consumption.

Flagstaff is 7,000 feet above sea level, Denver is at 5,000 and Phoenix is 1,500 feet.

The San Francisco Peaks near Flagstaff rise to over 12,000 feet, and it is easy to climb 1,000 feet or more in elevation by car or foot travel. Be aware that at higher altitudes, the air grows thinner, and you need to stay hydrated to avoid altitude sickness. Common symptoms are mild headaches and sleeplessness and fatigue.

Even the fittest visitors to Flagstaff may notice that shortness of breath when walking up stairs, so don't panic. But if you experience more severe effects, call the hospital emergency room.

For more information, see High-Altitude Illness: How to Avoid It and How to Treat It.

To learn about High Altitude Sports Training in Flagstaff, see NAU’s Altitude Training FAQ’s.