Climate & Weather
How Elevation Affects Weather: A Complete Guide
Discover the fascinating relationship between elevation and weather patterns.
Elevation of Empire, Colorado
2585 meters elevation
Sea Level (0m)Mount Everest (8,848m)
-16.8°C
Temperature Drop
73.9kPa
Air Pressure
72.9%
Oxygen Level
Quick Facts
Elevation2585 meters
Everest Comparison29.2% of Everest
Altitude Risk⚡ Moderate RiskPossible altitude effects (>2,400m)
RegionColorado
Highest PointMount Parnassus (4068 meters)
Notable Landmarks
Bard Creek Trailhead
2743 meterselevation
Union Pass Summit
3688 meterselevation
Legendary Mine
2926 meterselevation
Empire Loop Trail
2621 meterselevation
Historic Union School
2585 meterselevation
Geographic Features
Empire sits at 2,585 meters where North Clear Creek meets Bard Creek, positioned at a critical junction between Clear Creek Canyon and Berthoud Pass. The town occupies a wide valley bottom surrounded by steep mountainsides, with Mount Parnassus and Douglas Mountain creating dramatic backdrops. The geology features complex metamorphic formations crossed by mineralized veins, particularly along the Empire fault system. The confluence of drainages creates a natural transportation hub, while glacial deposits from the Pleistocene epoch form distinct terraces above the current valley floor. The surrounding terrain shows extensive evidence of both mining activity and glacial modification, with cirques and hanging valleys visible on the higher peaks.
Climate Impact
At 2,585 meters, Empire experiences severe mountain weather as the last major settlement before Berthoud Pass. The elevation creates dramatic temperature swings, with summer highs reaching 22°C and winter lows dropping to -28°C. Annual snowfall averages 325cm, enhanced by its position at the base of Berthoud Pass where winter storms often stall. The town's location at the convergence of multiple valleys creates unique wind patterns, particularly when Arctic air masses descend from the pass. The atmospheric pressure is approximately 74% of sea level, significantly affecting both human physiology and engine performance. The growing season typically lasts 80 days, though frost can occur in any month. The valley orientation can trap cold air masses, leading to some of the most extreme temperature inversions along the I-70 corridor.
Historical Context
Empire's relationship with elevation shaped its development from an 1860s mining camp into a critical mountain transportation hub. The town's position at the foot of Berthoud Pass made it essential for early prospectors crossing the Continental Divide. The construction of the first wagon road over Berthoud Pass in 1874 required innovative solutions for high-altitude road building, while modern US-40 continues to challenge engineers with its extreme elevation gain. Early buildings featured thick stone walls and steep roofs to handle heavy snow loads, while modern structures must meet some of Colorado's strictest snow-load requirements. The development of winter recreation in the mid-20th century transformed Empire into a key access point for high-altitude skiing, while its historic role in mining is preserved in numerous prospect pits and mine dumps on the surrounding mountainsides.
Cities with Similar Elevation
FAQs: Empire's Elevation
What is the elevation of Empire?
Empire has an elevation of 2585 meters, which influences its climate and environment.
How does Empire's elevation affect its weather?
The elevation of Empire (2585 meters) significantly impacts its local climate, affecting temperature ranges, precipitation patterns, and atmospheric pressure.
What are the highest points near Empire?
The highest point in Empire is Mount Parnassus (4068 meters), providing unique perspectives of the surrounding landscape.
