Bend, Oregon is a picturesque city located in the central part of the state, situated at the base of the Cascade Range and bordered by the Deschutes River. Bend is known for its outdoor activities, as well as its stunning mountain views. One feature of the area that residents and visitors need to be aware of is its high altitude, which has an elevation of roughly 3,600 feet (1,100 meters). For those who are not acclimated to higher elevations, it can be quite a significant change and will need some adjustments to make sure that you can enjoy your time exploring the area as much as possible. Here are some tips for those trying to navigate and cope with Bend’s diverse and challenging altitude.
Pacing Yourself on Activity
Pacing yourself is an essential part of adapting to the altitude. The most common mistake people make is to try and do too much too soon. If you’re not used to living, or hiking, skiing or biking at high elevations, it is important to start slowly. This means that even if you usually like to do a certain activity for many hours at lower elevations, you should spend less time doing it or other physical activities at the same intensity there.
In addition, it’s also helpful to allow more recovery time after your activities. If you’re used to hopping right back up and doing something else, frequently taking a break and a breather is a wise decision until your body adjusts to the different conditions.
Hydration
Staying hydrated is key to getting through the adjustment period as well. It is important to drink more water than usual, especially while you are doing physical activities such as skiing, hiking, and biking. When you’re dehydrated, not only will you feel physically drained and suffer from muscle cramps, but it can also be more difficult to acclimate to the altitude changes. Aim to drink two to three liters per day and keep the fluids coming as you engage in any activity.
Breathing and Altitude Sickness
People who come from lower elevations are more likely to suffer from altitude sickness. Breathing air that’s been thinned out by the decreased air pressure can make people feel lightheaded or nauseous, and some people may experience headaches, insomnia, and other symptoms. The best way to avoid this is to take your time adjusting and try to rest when you first arrive. It’s also helpful to practice controlled breathing when you’re engaging in activities or sleeping, in order to get your body used to the change in air, and help you relax in cloudless, high-altitude atmospheres.
Clothing and Gear
Visitors should make sure they have the right kind of outerwear when exploring up high. There aren’t many places with air that’s as crisp and refreshing as Bend, and it can be much colder than at lower elevations. It’s also prone to temperature changes year-round, so it’s important to dress in layers when you are spending time exploring outside to help you regulate your body temperature accordingly.
In addition to dressing warmly, make sure to bring the right gear and supplies. Make sure to pack sunscreen, lip balm with SPF, and a first aid kit. An altitude compass can also be helpful, especially if you plan on doing seasonal activities such as horseback riding or mountain biking.
Respect the Area
Respecting the local community is just as important as respecting nature when you’re visiting Bend. The population has grown in recent years and there are a number of neighborhoods and nature reserves to explore. Make sure to be mindful of signs and rules in the area are important and use your best judgment when out and about. Everybody who lives in the community has their own unique way of appreciating nature, so make sure you respect their privacy and land.
Explore Safely
Exploring Bend and its surroundings at a higher elevation is an exciting experience, but it’s also one that should be respected. The unique beauty of the area needs to be appreciated by everyone who wants to enjoy learning about the different types of wildlife and outdoor adventures it has to offer. Make sure to ease yourself into any outdoor activity and respect the area in order to have an enjoyable trip. Enjoy your time in Bend and soak up the stunning views that it has to offer!
