Climate & Weather
How Elevation Affects Weather: A Complete Guide
Discover the fascinating relationship between elevation and weather patterns.
Elevation of Morrison, Colorado
1798 meters elevation
Sea Level (0m)Mount Everest (8,848m)
-11.7°C
Temperature Drop
81.5kPa
Air Pressure
80.4%
Oxygen Level
Quick Facts
Elevation1798 meters
Everest Comparison20.3% of Everest
Altitude Risk✅ Low RiskBelow altitude sickness threshold
RegionColorado
Highest PointMount Morrison (2397 meters)
Notable Landmarks
Red Rocks Amphitheatre
1951 meterselevation
Mount Falcon Park
2271 meterselevation
Dinosaur Ridge
1889 meterselevation
Bear Creek Lake Park
1707 meterselevation
Morrison Natural History Museum
1798 meterselevation
Geographic Features
Morrison sits at 1,798 meters where Bear Creek emerges from the foothills of the Front Range. The town occupies a narrow valley beneath dramatic hogback ridges of the Dakota Formation. The geology features spectacular outcrops of tilted sedimentary rocks, including the Morrison Formation which takes its name from exposures near town. The surrounding terrain includes famous dinosaur track sites and the dramatic red sandstone formations of Red Rocks Park. The valley position creates a natural gateway between the plains and mountains.
Climate Impact
At 1,798 meters, Morrison experiences a foothill climate moderated by its protected valley location. The elevation creates noticeable temperature variations, with summer highs reaching 32°C and winter lows dropping to -18°C. Annual snowfall averages 178cm, though the valley position can create significant variations in accumulation. The terrain influences local wind patterns, particularly during upslope storms. The atmospheric pressure is approximately 82% of sea level. The growing season extends roughly 150 days, with the valley orientation creating diverse microclimates based on exposure and cold air drainage.
Historical Context
Morrison's relationship with elevation shaped its development from an 1870s supply town into a foothill landmark. The quarrying of building stone from the tilted layers required understanding of elevation-related access challenges, while the construction of Red Rocks Amphitheatre demonstrated sophisticated use of natural topography. The town's historic architecture reflects adaptations to foothill conditions, with buildings oriented to handle both winter storms and summer heat. Modern Morrison continues to balance historic preservation with foothill development challenges through specialized building codes and innovative approaches to emergency access on steep terrain.
Cities with Similar Elevation
FAQs: Morrison's Elevation
What is the elevation of Morrison?
Morrison has an elevation of 1798 meters, which influences its climate and environment.
How does Morrison's elevation affect its weather?
The elevation of Morrison (1798 meters) significantly impacts its local climate, affecting temperature ranges, precipitation patterns, and atmospheric pressure.
What are the highest points near Morrison?
The highest point in Morrison is Mount Morrison (2397 meters), providing unique perspectives of the surrounding landscape.
