Climate & Weather
How Elevation Affects Weather: A Complete Guide
Discover the fascinating relationship between elevation and weather patterns.
Elevation of Frisco, Colorado
2774 meters elevation
Sea Level (0m)Mount Everest (8,848m)
-18.0°C
Temperature Drop
72.2kPa
Air Pressure
71.2%
Oxygen Level
Quick Facts
Elevation2774 meters
Everest Comparison31.4% of Everest
Altitude Risk⚡ Moderate RiskPossible altitude effects (>2,400m)
RegionColorado
Highest PointMount Royal (3733 meters)
Notable Landmarks
Mount Royal Summit
3733 meterselevation
Frisco Bay Marina
2773 meterselevation
Peak One Summit
3859 meterselevation
Dillon Reservoir
2767 meterselevation
Mount Victoria Summit
3901 meterselevation
Geographic Features
Frisco occupies a strategic position at 2,774 meters at the junction of two major mountain valleys, where Tenmile Creek meets the Dillon Reservoir. The town is surrounded by the Tenmile Range to the south, the Gore Range to the north, and the Williams Fork Mountains to the east. The landscape was dramatically shaped by Pleistocene glaciation, creating the broad valley floor and the distinctive profiles of Mount Royal and Peak One. The geology features complex metamorphic formations, primarily consisting of Precambrian biotite gneiss and schist, intruded by younger granitic plutons. The creation of Dillon Reservoir in 1963 significantly altered the local topography, submerging the original valley floor at the confluence of three major drainages: Tenmile Creek, the Blue River, and the Snake River. The surrounding peaks, including Mount Victoria (3,901m) and Peak One (3,859m), create a dramatic amphitheater effect around the town.
Climate Impact
At 2,774 meters, Frisco experiences a subarctic climate moderated by its protected valley position. The elevation creates significant temperature variations, with summer highs rarely exceeding 23°C and winter lows frequently dropping below -25°C. The town's position at the intersection of major valleys influences wind patterns and precipitation, with annual snowfall averaging 380cm. The presence of Dillon Reservoir creates unique microclimates, with temperature inversions common in winter when cold air pools in the valley. The elevation difference between the town and surrounding peaks (over 1,000 meters) generates distinct weather zones, with temperature variations of up to 12°C between the reservoir and summit elevations. The atmospheric pressure is approximately 72% of sea level, affecting both human physiology and engine performance. The growing season is limited to approximately 60 days, with frost possible in any month. The reservoir's influence moderates temperature extremes but can enhance morning fog formation, particularly during autumn and spring transitions.
Historical Context
Frisco's relationship with elevation dates to its founding in 1873 as a mining supply center, strategically located at the intersection of major transportation routes through the mountains. The town's development was shaped by its position at the junction of valleys that provided access to multiple mining districts at even higher elevations. The arrival of the Denver, South Park and Pacific Railroad in 1882 required innovative engineering to handle the steep grades and thin air of Tenmile Canyon. The construction of Dillon Reservoir in 1963 dramatically altered the town's relationship with elevation, creating a major water storage facility for Denver at this high altitude. The development of nearby ski resorts (Copper Mountain, Breckenridge, Keystone, and Arapahoe Basin) in the 1960s and 1970s utilized Frisco's central location and elevation for access to various terrain. Modern Frisco continues to adapt to its extreme elevation through specialized building codes accounting for snow loads and wind forces at this altitude. The town's position as a hub for high-altitude recreation has led to the development of specialized facilities, including the Frisco Nordic Center and the Frisco Adventure Park, both designed to take advantage of the reliable snow conditions at this elevation. The Frisco Bay Marina, one of the highest-elevation marinas in North America at 2,773 meters, requires specialized equipment and operations to handle the challenges of boating at high altitude.
Cities with Similar Elevation
FAQs: Frisco's Elevation
What is the elevation of Frisco?
Frisco has an elevation of 2774 meters, which influences its climate and environment.
How does Frisco's elevation affect its weather?
The elevation of Frisco (2774 meters) significantly impacts its local climate, affecting temperature ranges, precipitation patterns, and atmospheric pressure.
What are the highest points near Frisco?
The highest point in Frisco is Mount Royal (3733 meters), providing unique perspectives of the surrounding landscape.
