Climate & Weather
How Elevation Affects Weather: A Complete Guide
Discover the fascinating relationship between elevation and weather patterns.
Elevation of Georgetown, Colorado
2454 meters elevation
Sea Level (0m)Mount Everest (8,848m)
-16.0°C
Temperature Drop
75.1kPa
Air Pressure
74.1%
Oxygen Level
Quick Facts
Elevation2454 meters
Everest Comparison27.7% of Everest
Altitude Risk⚡ Moderate RiskPossible altitude effects (>2,400m)
RegionColorado
Highest PointRepublican Mountain (3800 meters)
Notable Landmarks
Georgetown Loop Railroad Upper Station
2521 meterselevation
Guanella Pass Summit
3582 meterselevation
Georgetown Lake
2454 meterselevation
Lebanon Silver Mine
2590 meterselevation
Historic Downtown
2454 meterselevation
Geographic Features
Georgetown sits in a protected valley at 2,454 meters, where South Clear Creek meets Leavenworth Creek. The town is surrounded by steep mountainsides, with Republican Mountain and Democrat Mountain creating dramatic backdrops. The valley floor shows evidence of glacial modification, while the surrounding peaks feature extensive evidence of mining activity. The geology includes complex silver-bearing veins in Precambrian gneiss and schist, which made the area famous during the silver boom. Georgetown Lake, formed by a dam across Clear Creek, reflects the early understanding of high-altitude water management. The Guanella Pass corridor provides a natural route through the mountains, connecting the Clear Creek watershed with the South Platte drainage.
Climate Impact
At 2,454 meters, Georgetown experiences a high mountain valley climate characterized by significant seasonal variations. The elevation creates pronounced temperature swings, with summer highs reaching 24°C and winter lows falling to -25°C. Annual snowfall averages 305cm, enhanced by upslope storms that develop when Arctic air masses push against the Continental Divide. The town's position between major peaks creates a wind-sheltered microclimate, though Guanella Pass can funnel strong winds through the valley. The atmospheric pressure is approximately 75% of sea level, noticeably affecting both human physiology and engine performance. The growing season typically lasts 95 days, with Georgetown Lake moderating local temperatures but often creating morning fog during transitional seasons. The elevation and valley orientation can trap cold air, leading to dramatic temperature inversions during winter months.
Historical Context
Georgetown's relationship with elevation defined its evolution from an 1859 mining camp into the 'Silver Queen of the Rockies.' The development of silver mines at elevations above 2,700 meters required innovative solutions for ore extraction and processing. The Georgetown Loop Railroad, completed in 1884, represented a triumph of high-altitude engineering, using a unique spiral design to gain 200 meters in elevation over a short distance. The town's architecture reflects sophisticated adaptations to mountain conditions, with sturdy brick buildings featuring deep-set windows and steep roofs designed for heavy snow loads. The construction of Georgetown Lake in 1885 demonstrated early understanding of high-altitude water management, while the development of Guanella Pass created one of Colorado's most scenic high-altitude corridors. Modern Georgetown preserves its mining heritage through the Georgetown-Silver Plume National Historic Landmark District, while continuing to adapt to elevation challenges through specialized building codes and snow management systems.
Cities with Similar Elevation
FAQs: Georgetown's Elevation
What is the elevation of Georgetown?
Georgetown has an elevation of 2454 meters, which influences its climate and environment.
How does Georgetown's elevation affect its weather?
The elevation of Georgetown (2454 meters) significantly impacts its local climate, affecting temperature ranges, precipitation patterns, and atmospheric pressure.
What are the highest points near Georgetown?
The highest point in Georgetown is Republican Mountain (3800 meters), providing unique perspectives of the surrounding landscape.
