The Rocky Mountains have extreme environmental conditions including rapidly changing temperatures, potential for snow year-round, and high winds. Humans can only cope for around 21 hours at high altitudes due to effects on body systems from elevations above 12,000 feet, requiring adaptations like increased red blood cells and changes to cardiovascular and respiratory systems. Proper clothing layers, equipment like ice axes and crampons, and outfitter-provided ropes are needed to endure summit conditions in the Rocky Mountains.

1. The Rocky Mountains

2. Environmental conditions Temperature changes very quickly Snow possible year round Day temperatures in the winter (Low teens-high 20’s) Night temperatures in the winter (Teens-well below zero) High winds

3. Maximum time humans can cope 21 and a half hours Mt. Everest Babu Chiri Sherpa

4. Limits humans can endure Summit elevations can rise above 12,000 feet People not accustomed to these altitudes can experience side effects due to these elevations

5. Body systems affected Respiratory system Nervous system Cardiovascular system Muscular system

6. Adaptations Increased red blood cells Change in blood and muscle buffering capacity Increased breathing

7. Proper clothing required Wear layers Waterproof gloves A hat Socks Warm, water-resistant clothing Goggles or sunglasses Sunscreen

8. Special equipment required Ice axe Crampons (strap-on steel spikes for traction on icy slopes) A climbing harness A rope supplied by the outfitter