Acclimitization

Durango ’s elevation is 6,512 feet above sea level, over a mile high. To avoid altitude sickness, drink copious amounts of water to better prepare yourself for the higher altitude and drier climate. Nausea and lightheadedness are common symptoms of altitude sickness.

Water Purification

No natural source of water should ever be considered safe. All water should be filtered with high quality filters, boiled, or purified with chemical tablets. Microorganisms can cause serious illness and even the most seemingly pristine water source may harbor harmful microbial populations.

Trip Planning

Leave an itinerary with friends or family. Check with the local Forest Service for the most current information or for details about public campgrounds. Call the San Juan Forest Service at (970) 247-2874 or visit http://www.fs.fed.us/r2/sanjuan/ for more information. For an online list of public campgrounds in the San Juan National Forest, visit

http://www.fs.fed.us/r2/recreation/camping/campgroundlist/#sanjuan