Elevation

Expert’s Picks: Elevation

How to Avoid Pulmonary Edema at High Elevation

Pulmonary edema is caused by excess fluid in the lungs. Every time you take a breath, the air sacs in your lungs take in oxygen while releasing carbon dioxide. In most cases, this exchange of gases is not problematic. However, under some circumstances the increased pressure in your blood vessels will force excess fluid into your lungs.This prevents your lung… read more
What Is the Elevation of the Timberline in Colorado?

Timberline is defined as an imaginary boundary above which trees will not grow. The exact elevation is determined by climate, slope aspect and the species of tree, and varies from 11,000 to 12,000 feet in Colorado. The trees near the absolute boundary are very short, and are usually twisted and scarred by the harsh winds. read more
What Is the Elevation of the Rocky Mountains in Colorado?

The Rocky Mountains form a wide band of high peaks that run north to south through the state, passing just west of Denver. These mountains continue south in New Mexico to form the Sangre de Christo range and north into Wyoming as part of the Medicine Bow Mountains; yet neither of these two ranges can produce the height and mass of the Colorado Rockies. read more
Why Must Climbers Wear Oxygen Masks at High Elevations?

Watch videos of Mt. Everest ascents and you will notice that climbers wear oxygen masks on the push to the summit. Oxygen not only makes a climb physically easier, it also can serve as a life-saving piece of gear. read more
How to Adjust Windage & Elevation on Zeiss Scopes

The rifle scope can be the most important part of a rifle. The scope allows you to see the target and place an accurate and effective shot. If the scope has not been correctly adjusted for windage and elevation, you will never hit the target. Zeiss rifle scopes are known for their high-quality and accurate rifle scopes. Windage and elevation adjustments are… read more

Related Elevation Articles & Videos

How to Read an Altimeter

An altimeter is a handy device that provides a reading of your altitude. It is a valuable tool for navigation as well as tracking vertical feet climbed or descended. You can use either a stand-alone altimeter or one built into a watch… read more
Preparing for a Hike Using a Topographic Map

If you're interested in exploring areas of wilderness off the beaten path, or perhaps with no path at all, then you will need topographic maps to guide you. These maps offer highly detailed depictions of terrain by creating a three-dim… read more
How to Draw a Topographical Map

It's late July and you are getting ready for antelope season in the Eastern plains of Colorado. Suddenly, you find signs of a big herd and then stumble upon a trophy buck. There are no trails, trees or water to reference, so how are… read more
What Is Meant by a Contour Interval on a Topographic Map?

A contour line represents a specific elevation above sea level. The interval between contour lines represents the difference in elevation between the two. Many different features in the land can be shown by the representation of contou… read more
How to Read a Topographic Map

United States Geological Survey topographic maps contain information about the terrain and land features of a particular area. Understanding how to interpret a topographical map can provide important information for hikers, hunters or… read more
How to Make a Topographic Map

Topographical maps show changes in elevation. They show the shape of major features like mountains and rivers, and provide invaluable information to hikers, kayakers and other outdoor enthusiasts. A topographic map will help you evalua… read more
How to Make a Topographical Map

Topographical maps are invaluable to outdoor enthusiasts of all sort. Not only do they indicate the locations of mountains, rivers and other major geographical features, but they provide a detailed picture of the contours and elevation… read more
What is Meant by the Contour Interval on a Topographical Map?

A topographical map shows the land features of a set area, including bodies of water, forest cover and elevation. Because a map is two-dimensional, topographical maps illustrate elevation with contour intervals, or lines that connect… read more
Three Types of Contour Lines Found on a Topographical Map

A topographical map depicts change in elevation and the shape of landforms through the creation of contour lines. A contour line is a continuous line drawn at precisely the same elevation above sea level (i.e. 1,000 feet in elevation).… read more
The Definition of a Topographic Map

A topographic map (along with a compass) is an essential tool for orienteering, or navigating cross country in the wilderness. Even if you never plan to leave the trail, a topographical map allows you to read the landscape and know whe… read more
Weather Conditions in the Rocky Mountains

Because of varying altitudes and mountain formations, weather conditions in the Rocky Mountains can suddenly become extremely dangerous. Whether you are visiting in the spring, summer, fall or winter, it is always important to unders… read more
Ski Resorts Near Fort Collins, Colorado

Fort Collins is located in Larimer County, Colorado at an altitude of 4,984 feet. If you're visiting Fort Collins and want to schedule some skiing, most resorts are a 90 minute to two-hour drive from the city. Consider traffic and driv… read more
Ski Resorts Near Boone, North Carolina

Outside Magazine voted Boone, North Carolina as one of the best small towns of 2009. Boone is home to The Institute for Senior Scholars at Appalachian State University, which offers outdoor excursions for people over 50, so both the yo… read more
Snow Resorts in Utah

Ski Utah advertises Utah as having the "Greatest Snow on Earth." Utah does receive very light powder that makes for magical skiing. Another advantage of many Utah ski resorts is their proximity to Salt Lake City. Several are less than… read more
How to Create a Topographic Map

Whether you are planning a mountain climbing expedition, an extended backwoods hiking trip or just a relaxing afternoon walk in the woods with your family, a topographic map can help you prepare. Topographical maps show you natural fea… read more

Elevation Photos

Editor's Pick

Backcountry Camping Tips

You've already tried car and RV camping. You've camped at commercial campsites that had a convenient restroom and water supply. Now, you want to explore the road less traveled. Backcountry camping, also known as primitive camping, is a wonderful way to explore the remote...
More Backcountry Camping...
Popular Article

Beach Camping Near Pismo Beach, California

Pismo State Beach, California, has many attractions and activities including camping, swimming, hiking and wildlife viewing. Birdwatching is one of the primary activities in the area. The park also has the largest over-wintering colony of monarch butterflies in the natio...
More Beach Camping...
Featured Video

Common Sense Hiking Tips

The first and most fundamental thing is never hike alone. There are too many situations, especially as an unexperienced hiker, where you may find yourself without anyone to help you. So the buddy system works and applies very much in hiking.
More Camping Basics...