Climate and Attire

The weather for the weekend is looking great:

Because of the elevation, the temperatures at Snowbird are 10-20 degrees F cooler than in the valley. On Saturday, we are taking the tram to an elevation of 11,000 feet, and it will be nippy up there. On Sunday, there is an outdoors barbecue for lunch. The hike on Tuesday afternoon reaches an elevation of 10,000 feet. At night temperatures should reach the freezing mark. Finally, weather in the mountains is always somewhat unpredictable.

It has been cool to cold at night and warm enough during the day for short sleeved shirts and shorts. At this time last year, there were 15" of snow at Snowbird, so that is still a possibility, although it would melt rather quickly. Pack bathing suits for the outdoor pool and hot tub, sturdy athletic shoes or hiking boots for the hike, and clothing that can be layered to accommodate temperatures from 30 degrees F to 75 degrees F. The sun is strong at altitude, even this time of year, and is especially hard on eyes. Pack sunglasses and a hat. If you forget to pack something, don't worry. Snowbird is a big resort with lots of shops, and probably has what you need, including a pharmacy.

Conference attire is casual, also for the banquet. You may wish to bring blue jeans for the hike on Tuesday.

Snowbird Resort is at a high altitude, about 8,000 feet. Preparing for living at a high altitude will make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable. The biggest problem at this altitude and climate is dehydration. Drink lots of water, starting before the trip. It's a good idea to avoid alcohol and caffeine just before your trip, or at least drink 1 glass of water for every cup of alcoholic beverage or caffeinated beverage. Alcohol will affect you more at this altitude. Eating carbohydrates in preference to meat or fatty foods also helps. When you arrive at Snowbird, take it easy. Give your body time to adjust. Do not try to exercise strenuously for the first day. This is why the hike is scheduled for the last day of the symposium. Altitude sickness includes headaches and nausea. It's not pleasant, and adequate preparation is far preferable.

For those traveling a long distance, let me share with you my travel diet which I have found to be quite effective. Before the trip, I gradually cut down on caffeine and alcohol until there is no intake on the day of travel. During the travel, I do not drink coffee, tea, or alcohol, or eat chocolate. I eat lightly, mostly carbohydrates, the previous day and the day of travel. The idea is to let your system adjust to the new time zone by when you eat; you try to eat at times appropriate for the new time zone. Don't eat food that's hard to digest, like lots of meat or fatty foods. Skip meals on the plane at inappropriate times, even if you have to fast and go a little hungry. Drink lots of water and juice on the plane. You will feel much better when you finally arrive here.