Altitude Climbing Anxiety

[emily_in_nc]

You actually can not feel any effects of altitude under 5280 feet. That is only if you are highly sensitive. The average person does not begin to feel them until about 8000 feet. The only exception is in the polar regions where you can feel effects as low as 4000 feet. .

Just a data point. I live not far above sea level in NC, and when my DH and I went to the southwest last year, we were able to do long, strenuous hikes in the Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon, Zion NP, etc. without any problems. I know the highest elevations were over 7000 feet (can't remember exactly). I suspect you'll be fine so long as you don't push yourself too hard.

Good luck!

Emily