Climate & Weather
How Elevation Affects Weather: A Complete Guide
Discover the fascinating relationship between elevation and weather patterns.
Elevation of Fairplay, Colorado
3025 meters elevation
Sea Level (0m)Mount Everest (8,848m)
-19.7°C
Temperature Drop
69.9kPa
Air Pressure
69.0%
Oxygen Level
Quick Facts
Elevation3025 meters
Everest Comparison34.2% of Everest
Altitude Risk⚡ Moderate RiskPossible altitude effects (>2,400m)
RegionColorado
Highest PointMount Sherman (4278 meters)
Notable Landmarks
South Park City Museum
3025 meterselevation
Fairplay Beach
3017 meterselevation
American Legion Hut
3025 meterselevation
High Creek Fen
2987 meterselevation
Horseshoe Mountain
4144 meterselevation
Geographic Features
Fairplay sits at 3,025 meters in the vast South Park basin, surrounded by the Mosquito Range to the west and the Park Range to the east. The town occupies a broad valley floor carved by multiple glacial episodes, with the Middle Fork of the South Platte River meandering through extensive wetlands. The geology reveals complex interactions between ancient metamorphic rocks and mineral-rich intrusions that drove the area's mining history. The surrounding terrain encompasses remarkable ecological diversity, from high-altitude wetlands to alpine tundra above treeline. The South Park basin's unique geography creates one of North America's largest high-elevation grassland parks, while nearby fourteeners provide dramatic backdrops.
Climate Impact
At 3,025 meters, Fairplay endures some of Colorado's most extreme weather patterns. The elevation drives severe temperature swings, with summer highs reaching 22°C and winter lows plunging to -34°C. Annual snowfall averages 380cm, though the exposed basin location can lead to significant wind redistribution. The high-altitude basin setting creates pronounced temperature inversions, while the surrounding mountains generate complex wind patterns. The atmospheric pressure is approximately 70% of sea level, significantly impacting both human physiology and engine performance. The growing season barely reaches 30 days, making Fairplay one of the shortest growing seasons in the lower 48 states. The basin location can trap cold air masses, leading to extreme temperature variations between seasons.
Historical Context
Fairplay's relationship with elevation dates to its 1859 founding as a mining camp in South Park. The establishment of mines at elevations above 3,500 meters required unprecedented engineering solutions for year-round operation. The town's position at the intersection of high-altitude transportation routes made it crucial during the mining era, while modern Fairplay serves as the highest incorporated municipal seat in North America. The development of ranching at this extreme elevation required innovative adaptations to short growing seasons and harsh winters. The preservation of numerous historic structures through the South Park City Museum showcases early high-altitude building techniques, while modern construction continues to evolve to handle extreme snow loads and temperature variations. The town's water system, drawing from high-altitude sources in the Mosquito Range, demonstrates sophisticated engineering solutions for preventing freezing in extreme conditions.
Cities with Similar Elevation
FAQs: Fairplay's Elevation
What is the elevation of Fairplay?
Fairplay has an elevation of 3025 meters, which influences its climate and environment.
How does Fairplay's elevation affect its weather?
The elevation of Fairplay (3025 meters) significantly impacts its local climate, affecting temperature ranges, precipitation patterns, and atmospheric pressure.
What are the highest points near Fairplay?
The highest point in Fairplay is Mount Sherman (4278 meters), providing unique perspectives of the surrounding landscape.
