Thinking about trading sea level for Manitou Springs at 6,300 feet? You’re not alone. The views, trails, and small-town feel near Pikes Peak are worth it, but the elevation and dry air can surprise even seasoned travelers. This guide gives you simple, reliable steps to feel your best, set up your home for the climate, and get outside safely. Let’s dive in.
Life at 6,300 feet: what to expect
At this elevation, the air pressure and oxygen are lower than at sea level. You may notice quicker breathing, mild shortness of breath with hills, and lighter sleep the first few nights. The climate is semi-arid with stronger sun, low humidity, and bigger day-to-night temperature swings.
Manitou Springs sits in a region with seasonal wildfire smoke and winter storms. With a little planning, you can stay comfortable, keep your indoor air clean, and enjoy the outdoors year-round.
Common symptoms the first week
- Mild breathlessness and a faster heart rate with exertion.
- Lighter or more fragmented sleep and occasional headaches.
- Dry mouth, dry skin, or scratchy nose and throat.
If you feel persistent severe headache, nausea, dizziness, confusion, extreme fatigue, or low urine output, seek medical care. People with heart or lung disease, infants, pregnant people, and older adults should check in with a clinician before or soon after moving.
Simple steps to acclimate
- Hydrate throughout the day. Sip water and go easy on alcohol and sedatives at first.
- Ease into activity over 3 to 14 days. Start with shorter walks and add intensity slowly.
- Eat a balanced diet. On heavy exertion days, add some extra carbohydrates.
- Improve sleep comfort with a humidifier and layered bedding. Expect a few off nights.
- If you have cardiopulmonary conditions, ask your provider about monitoring oxygen saturation and safe activity limits.
When to call a clinician
- Severe headache that does not respond to over-the-counter medicine.
- Persistent vomiting, confusion, or difficulty walking.
- Worsening breathing issues, especially if you have known heart or lung disease.
Set up indoor comfort and air quality
Low humidity is common here, especially in winter. Wildfire smoke can make air quality worse at times. A few small upgrades can make a big difference.
Humidity targets in a dry climate
- Aim for indoor relative humidity of 30 to 50 percent. This helps reduce dryness without creating mold risk.
- Place an inexpensive digital hygrometer in key rooms to track levels.
- Use portable cool-mist or ultrasonic humidifiers sized to each bedroom. For whole-home consistency, consider a professionally installed system on your HVAC.
Filter for wildfire smoke
- Upgrade HVAC filters to MERV 8 to 13 if your system allows. Higher MERV captures smaller particles, but check compatibility with your blower and fan.
- Add a portable air cleaner with a true HEPA filter. Match the Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) to your room size and run it in occupied rooms during smoke events.
- During heavy smoke, seal gaps with weatherstripping and set HVAC to recirculate rather than pull outside air.
- Keep a small supply of N95 masks for days when you must be outdoors.
Ventilation and carbon monoxide safety
- Balance filtration with fresh air on days with good outdoor air quality.
- Ensure combustion appliances are installed and vented correctly for elevation.
- Install and test carbon monoxide detectors on every level and near bedrooms.
- Keep chimneys and vents clear and schedule regular professional inspections.
Home systems, cooking, and water
A few elevation-aware tweaks will save you time and keep your home running smoothly.
HVAC and heating at elevation
- Change HVAC filters regularly. If you have pets or smoke events are frequent, check monthly.
- Heat pumps and furnaces work at this elevation. Make sure installers account for altitude when sizing and commissioning equipment.
- Air sealing and insulation help manage energy use and reduce smoke infiltration.
High-altitude cooking and baking
- Water boils at a lower temperature here, so boiling methods can take longer.
- For baking, reduce some leavening, add a bit more liquid, and keep an eye on times and temperatures. Follow tested high-altitude recipes or conversion guides for best results.
Water quality and appliances
- Many Colorado mountain communities have hard water. Review the municipal water quality report, and test private wells if applicable.
- Consider a water softener if hardness is high, and use sediment or activated carbon filters if taste is a concern.
- Keep water heater temperatures set safely and according to manufacturer guidance.
Laundry and drying tips
- Clothes dry faster outside due to low humidity. UV can fade fabrics, so turn items inside out or use shade when possible.
- In winter, indoor drying racks work well. If using an outdoor clothesline, check local HOA or city rules.
Outdoor readiness in Manitou Springs
You will likely spend more time outside here. Prepare for stronger sun, seasonal wildfire smoke, and quick weather changes.
Sun and UV protection
- UV exposure increases with elevation. Use broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher and reapply often.
- Wear a hat, UV-protective clothing, and sunglasses, even on cool days.
- Take breaks in shade during midday and drink water during hikes.
Wildfire and smoke prep
- Build a simple evacuation plan and a three-day emergency kit with water, food, meds, masks, and key documents.
- Follow local air quality advisories and limit outdoor exertion on high AQI days.
- Keep spare HVAC filters and HEPA filters on hand for smoke season.
Winter storms and vehicles
- Expect snow, ice, and fast-moving storms, even at this “lower” mountain elevation.
- Use winter tires, keep a car kit with warm layers, water, snacks, and a scraper, and plan for snow removal.
- Protect pipes from freezing by insulating vulnerable runs and knowing where your main shutoffs are.
Landscaping and gardening basics
Manitou Springs has a shorter growing season with risk of late spring and early fall frosts. Check current USDA maps and local extension guidance for planting windows.
Choose drought-tolerant and native plants, use mulch, and consider drip irrigation to save water.
Many lots are sloped. Use plants that stabilize soil and add erosion control where needed.
Confirm watering restrictions and local codes before installing irrigation or rainwater collection.
Pets, kids, and activity pacing
- Introduce hills and longer walks gradually for pets and children.
- Watch pets for heavy panting, lethargy, cough, or unusual behavior and call a vet if you notice issues.
- For your own fitness, increase intensity slowly, use intervals, and take more breaks on uphill trails.
First-week move-in checklist
- Buy a digital hygrometer and record indoor humidity.
- Install or test carbon monoxide detectors and smoke alarms.
- Change HVAC filters; add a true HEPA air cleaner for bedrooms.
- Stock N95 masks and a basic three-day emergency kit with meds and documents.
- Schedule an HVAC tune-up and an inspection for furnace, chimney, and other combustion appliances.
- If you have heart or lung conditions, are pregnant, or care for very young children, talk to your clinician about acclimation and activity limits.
- Review your municipal water quality report and test private wells if applicable.
Ready to make Manitou Springs feel like home? If you want local guidance on neighborhoods, home systems that fit the climate, and a smooth relocation, we’re here to help. Get your free home valuation or start your search with Unknown Company. Let’s talk about your move.
FAQs
Will I get altitude sickness at 6,300 feet in Manitou Springs?
- Most healthy people do not develop severe altitude illness at this elevation, but mild symptoms like breathlessness, sleep changes, and headaches are common and usually improve in a few days.
How long does acclimation take after moving to Manitou Springs?
- Many people feel better within 3 to 7 days, with full exercise capacity improving over several weeks as you increase activity gradually.
What indoor humidity should I target in a dry Colorado climate?
- Keep indoor relative humidity around 30 to 50 percent to ease dryness while avoiding levels that promote mold growth.
How can I protect my home from wildfire smoke in El Paso County?
- Use higher-efficiency HVAC filters, run a HEPA portable air cleaner sized to each room, seal gaps during smoke events, and keep N95 masks for necessary trips outside.
Do I need to change how I cook and bake at 6,300 feet?
- Yes, water boils at a lower temperature and baking often needs adjustments such as slightly more liquid and reduced leavening; follow tested high-altitude recipes for consistent results.
