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jdux999 · 04-19-2023, 05:16 PM

Hello all. I'm driving from Moab to Pueblo and I'm concerned about altitude sickness. I'm use to 5000 - 6000 feet but nothing higher. Routes 70 or 50 are both over 11000 feet. Are there any other roads to the south where I can keep it under 8000 feet? I can take my time so distance isn't that important to me.

twogypsies · 04-19-2023, 05:50 PM

I really doubt that just driving over the passes would affect you. You will be gradually climbing and then descending. You, most likely, will not be staying at that elevation. I wouldn't be concerned about it.

Hwy 50 is the best route - 396 miles

If staying at those elevations then do so gradually.... perhaps at 6,000' then 8,000'.

People drive the passes all the time and I doubt they stop and stay at places to get acclimated, especially if driving an interstate.

Gunnison is 7700' EL
Then the climb to the pass at 11,300' El
Then the descent to Salida 7100' EL

It will only take you a short time to climb the pass.

Vermont_Darren · 04-19-2023, 08:07 PM

If you're really trying to keep it under 8,000 feet, your only option is to travel south from Moab all the way to I-40, take it east through New Mexico to I-25, and then take that north to Pueblo.
Glorieta Pass is at 7,500 feet and Raton Pass is about 7,800.

yeloduster · 04-20-2023, 06:45 AM

As suggested by Vermont_Darren would work. You could also take the route on this MAP.

Both will keep you under the 8000 ft ceiling you set for yourself. However, that is a LOOONNNG way to go. I suggest you take the route twogypsies suggested by going to Grand Junction then taking US50 to Pueblo.

To mitigate any issue with elevation go to Walmart and buy some canned oxygen to supplement you while traversing the mountain. See CANNED OXYGEN.

twogypsies · 04-20-2023, 02:04 PM

Actually.... Poncha Springs CO is 7400' elevation

Sargents, CO is 8400' elevation

Monarch Pass is inbetween the two and the distance between the two is 28 miles.

Do you think the 28 miles is really going to affect you? Plus, you will be gradually climbing so it's not like it's an instant elevation.

BirchyBoy · 04-20-2023, 02:10 PM

Altitude sickness is a concern for some people unless they acclimate over a long period.. Many people experience this when going to Pikes Peak even though it is a “gradual” ride up to the top. My dad, for instance, visited from Maine and was lightheaded at the top.

OP - if you’re concerned, is there someone else that could drive up and over the passes safely?