Cautions/Alerts/Warnings for Winter & Spring Activities (October through April)

BEFORE YOU BEGIN ENJOYING OUR GREAT OUTDOORS...

Our Arkansas Valley winter wonderland offers many exciting winter activities, but most outdoor fun involves exercise in some form or another, including skiing, (downhill, cross country) snowboarding, snowmobiling, back country snowshoeing and hiking, so we'd like to preface this section with a few words of caution.
(NOTE: These are general informational tips and are not presented here as guaranteed techniques.  Use your own common sense... it's impossible to sue mother nature.)

High Altitude Hiking Warnings:
Avalanches: During winter and spring, avalanches can be common in our back country.   When entering trails and our back country watch for posted signs and off-limit warnings... they are posted for a reason.  Be alert for signs of an unstable snow pack such as settling or "whomping" sounds.  It's always best to check with local officials or Park Rangers for current avalanche warnings BEFORE taking off.  Always carry proper avalanche equipment during the winter and spring season.  These can save your life, and local merchants can make certain you're properly equipped if you have any questions.

Acute Mountain Sickness:
Let's first de-bunk common misunderstandings about high elevation sickness, (medically termed Acute Mountain Sickness).  Here's some FACTS you need to be aware of:

• Fitness does not prevent acute mountain sickness.  Being in good shape is certainly a "plus", but your physical condition has nothing to do with AMS.
• Thirst is not the prime indicator of a need for fluids... you should drink fluids regardless of whether or not you're thirsty on a frequent basis to counteract the dehydrating effects of the drier mountain air.
• Altitude adjustment takes 72 hours, and a return to low altitude negates previous altitude adjustment.
• The effects of alcohol are intensified at high altitudes.

How to best enjoy our spectacular mountains and high elevations:

• Take it easy for 72 hours after you arrive.
• Drink plenty of water.
• Eat a diet high in carbohydrates and reduce salt intake.
• Decrease alcohol and caffeine consumption.
• Avoid sleeping medications and narcotics, and try to get plenty of rest.

Hypothermia:
Hypothermia is a condition that can happen any time of the year and occurs when a person's entire body temperature is lowered.  You can avoid being rendered helpless in a very short period of time by wearing the proper clothing, and being prepared for sudden changes in temperature.  Dress in layers of wool or synthetic material that retain warmth when wet.  Wear sturdy footwear and always carry mittens and hat.  Your pack, if cross country skiing, hiking or snowshoeing should include water and high energy foods.

Sunburn:
Sunburn occurs more rapidly at the high elevations here in the Arkansas Valley than many of our guests imagine.  There is less atmosphere to block the sun's rays at 7,000, 10,000 or 14,000 feet above sea level.  Snow and water reflect the sun and intensify the effect.  Always wear sunscreen products that protect against both UVA and UVB with a high protection number of 15 or 30, particularly between the hours of 11:00 am and 2 pm.

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