Climate & Weather
How Elevation Affects Weather: A Complete Guide
Discover the fascinating relationship between elevation and weather patterns.
Elevation of Winter Park, Colorado
2764 meters elevation
Sea Level (0m)Mount Everest (8,848m)
-18.0°C
Temperature Drop
72.2kPa
Air Pressure
71.3%
Oxygen Level
Quick Facts
Elevation2764 meters
Everest Comparison31.2% of Everest
Altitude Risk⚡ Moderate RiskPossible altitude effects (>2,400m)
RegionColorado
Highest PointParsenn Bowl Summit (3676 meters)
Notable Landmarks
Winter Park Resort Base
2745 meterselevation
Mary Jane Territory Summit
3475 meterselevation
Parsenn Bowl Summit
3676 meterselevation
Moffat Tunnel West Portal
2816 meterselevation
James Peak
4077 meterselevation
Geographic Features
Winter Park sits in the Fraser Valley, nestled between the Continental Divide and Vasquez Mountains in the Front Range. The town occupies a glacially-carved valley at 2,764 meters, with dramatic elevation changes from valley floor to surrounding peaks. The landscape is defined by the valley's U-shaped profile, created by massive ice sheets during the Pleistocene epoch. The eastern boundary is marked by the Continental Divide, where James Peak (4,077m) and Parry Peak (4,028m) create a dramatic alpine backdrop. The western edge rises to the Vasquez Mountains, with Vasquez Peak reaching 3,849 meters. The geology reveals complex metamorphic formations, primarily composed of ancient Precambrian gneiss and schist, intruded by younger granitic bodies. The Fraser River, a tributary of the Colorado River, has carved its channel through glacial deposits, creating a valley floor rich in alluvial materials.
Climate Impact
At 2,764 meters, Winter Park experiences a subarctic climate modified by its protected valley position. The elevation creates dramatic temperature variations, with summer highs rarely exceeding 24°C and winter lows frequently dropping below -25°C. The town's position east of the Continental Divide generates unique weather patterns, including upslope storms that can produce significant snowfall (annual average 350cm). The elevation difference between the valley floor and surrounding peaks creates distinct microclimates, with temperature variations of up to 10°C between the base area and summit elevations. The valley orientation channels prevailing winds, particularly in winter when Arctic air masses can produce wind chill temperatures below -40°C. The high elevation also affects atmospheric pressure, approximately 73% of sea level, impacting both human physiology and combustion processes. The growing season is limited to approximately 70 days, with frost possible in any month.
Historical Context
Winter Park's relationship with elevation dates to the early 1900s, when the Moffat Railroad Tunnel's construction (completed 1928) required innovative engineering to bore through the Continental Divide at 2,816 meters, establishing a crucial transportation corridor. The town's development as a ski resort began in 1940, specifically chosen for its elevation and consistent snowfall patterns created by its unique geographic position. The establishment of Winter Park Resort marked one of the earliest municipal-owned ski areas in North America, with Denver operating the resort until 2002. The development of Mary Jane Territory in 1975 utilized the natural elevation differences for challenging terrain, while the addition of Parsenn Bowl in 1992 expanded skiing above treeline. The construction of the Zephyr Express Gondola in 1990 required specialized engineering for high-altitude operation, connecting the town to the resort base. Modern Winter Park continues to adapt to its extreme elevation through innovative snow management systems and specialized building codes, while also serving as a gateway to high-altitude recreation in the Indian Peaks Wilderness. The town's role as a high-altitude training venue has grown, with athletes utilizing the elevation for conditioning, particularly before major competitions.
Cities with Similar Elevation
FAQs: Winter Park's Elevation
What is the elevation of Winter Park?
Winter Park has an elevation of 2764 meters, which influences its climate and environment.
How does Winter Park's elevation affect its weather?
The elevation of Winter Park (2764 meters) significantly impacts its local climate, affecting temperature ranges, precipitation patterns, and atmospheric pressure.
What are the highest points near Winter Park?
The highest point in Winter Park is Parsenn Bowl Summit (3676 meters), providing unique perspectives of the surrounding landscape.
