What is the Elevation in Durango Colorado?
Durango, Colorado is a breathtakingly beautiful city located in the San Juan Mountains. With its stunning views and rich history, Durango is a popular destination for tourists, outdoor enthusiasts, and those looking for a relaxed, rural lifestyle. As such, it is important to understand the elevation in Durango, Colorado so that visitors can be prepared for the climate and terrain they will encounter while in the area.
The Elevation of Durango, Colorado
Durango, Colorado is located at an elevation of 6,512 feet (1,984 meters) above sea level. This makes it one of the higher elevation cities in the United States. The elevation has a significant effect on the climate in Durango and the surrounding area, making it much cooler and wetter than the surrounding locations.
What Are the Effects of the Elevation?
The elevation in Durango, Colorado has a significant effect on the climate. The higher elevation makes the area much cooler and wetter, as the altitude places Durango in a rain shadow. The average temperature in Durango is approximately 54°F (12°C). As the elevation increases, the temperature decreases. During the winter months, temperatures can drop to below freezing and snow is common.
The elevation also affects the amount of oxygen available in the air. At higher elevations, the air is thinner, which can cause altitude sickness in visitors who are not accustomed to the elevation. Altitude sickness is a condition caused by the thin air, which can cause fatigue, headaches, and nausea.
What Are the Benefits of the Elevation?
The elevation in Durango, Colorado also has some benefits. The cooler temperatures and higher elevation mean that the area is generally free of insects and other pests, making it a great place to visit. The thin air also means that the air is cleaner and less polluted than lower elevation areas. Moreover, the elevation provides stunning views of the San Juan Mountains and the surrounding area.
What is the Highest Point Near Durango?
The highest point near Durango, Colorado is Mount Hesperus, which is located 13 miles (21 kilometers) west of the city. Mount Hesperus has an elevation of 13,232 feet (4,044 meters) and is the highest peak in the La Plata Mountains.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the elevation of Durango, Colorado?
The elevation of Durango, Colorado is 6,512 feet (1,984 meters) above sea level.
What is the average temperature in Durango?
The average temperature in Durango, Colorado is approximately 54°F (12°C).
What are the effects of the elevation in Durango?
The effects of the elevation in Durango, Colorado include cooler temperatures, wetter weather, and thinner air. The thinner air can also cause altitude sickness in visitors who are not accustomed to the elevation.
What are the benefits of the elevation in Durango?
The benefits of the elevation in Durango, Colorado include cooler temperatures, cleaner air, and stunning views of the surrounding area. The thin air also means that the area is generally free of insects and other pests.
What is the highest point near Durango?
The highest point near Durango, Colorado is Mount Hesperus, which is located 13 miles (21 kilometers) west of the city. Mount Hesperus has an elevation of 13,232 feet (4,044 meters).
Do visitors need to take precautions for the elevation in Durango?
Yes, visitors should take precautions for the elevation in Durango, Colorado. The thin air can cause altitude sickness in visitors who are not accustomed to the elevation. It is important to drink plenty of fluids and avoid overexertion until the body has had time to adjust to the elevation.