- Drink water. And drink more water. Altitude sickness can affect anyone who travels over 8,000 feet above sea level, regardless of their physical condition. A drop in barometric pressure, and a decrease in available oxygen, alters blood chemistry, and this affects different people in different ways. Keeping hydrated is the best way to prime your body for the altitude.

- Know your limits. Headache, nausea, dizziness, and impaired thought are warning signs. Remember, the bellman you see taking stairs three at a time has lived here long enough to become acclimated. This process takes six months, so don't expect miracles even after a week at altitude. If you work out regularly, experts recommend reducing your regimen by at least one third.

- Apply sunscreen. And apply it again. Telluride is closer to the sun - a mile and a half closer than many visitors last saw it. Sunburn is common even on overcast days; at these altitudes, fewer ultraviolet rays are blocked. The sun's reflection off the snow can double these effects.

- Moisturize. Don't be shy using about lip balm or moisturizer. This is a dry climate, and you'll be much more comfortable. Trust us, we live here and use both regularly.